The shortage of wild-game processors in South Dakota is making waves in the hunting community, with butcher shops closing or shifting focus away from processing game animals. Josh Clark, the manager at Cutting Edge Meat Market in Piedmont, took advantage of the increased demand by expanding his processing capabilities before the hunting season began. This move resulted in a 30% to 40% increase in animal drop-offs compared to the previous year.
Other butchers, like Paul Sorum of Renner Corner Meats, also feel a commitment to helping hunters by processing full carcasses. However, the shortage of processors has led him to take in animals from neighboring states for processing, such as elk, moose, and antelope.
With the threat of some hunters giving up hunting due to the lack of processors willing to take full carcasses, organizations like South Dakota Sportsmen Against Hunger are stepping in to help. This program allows hunters to donate the meat from deer and antelope to charitable food pantries. Despite the challenges, home-based butchers like Rex and Cheryl Roseland continue to provide processing services, although they are feeling the strain of the increasing demand.
Overall, the shortage of wild-game processors is creating a challenge for hunters in South Dakota, but initiatives like donation programs and the dedication of butchers like Josh Clark, Paul Sorum, and the Roselands are helping to keep the hunting economy alive.
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Photo credit www.siouxfallslive.com
