SDCA Applauds USDA and DOJ Resolve Dispute with Maude Family
For Immediate Release: April 28, 2025
Media Contact: Lorrin Naasz, office@sdcattlemen.org
SDCA Applauds Secretary Rollins Dropping Charges Against Maude Family
The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association (SDCA) applauds United States Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins for ending the politically charged prosecution of South Dakota ranchers Charles and Heather Maude.
“Charles and Heather Maude endured a heart wrenching burden on their family caused by overzealous prosecution that could have led to a decade in federal prison,” said Warren Symens, SDCA President. “SDCA is thankful to Secretary Rollins for finally ending the drawn out persecution of the Maude family and reeling in the rogue federal agents and the Department of Justice.”
Since these charges first came to light a year ago, SDCA remained in close contact with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) to support the Maudes and correct this government overreach. SDCA’s partnership with these national organizations brings federal weight to state-based issues. NCBA and PLC conducted several meetings with senior Forest Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials to address rampant issues with USFS administrative and law enforcement process. SDCA elevated the issue in their meetings with Senator John Thune, Senator Mike Rounds, and Congressman Dusty Johnson to ensure resolution of the matter was a priority.
“The SDCA will continue working to preserve good relations between landowners and government agencies,” said Symens. “This situation is an important reminder of why industry organizations exist – working together to be a voice for ranchers and defend their interests.”
The SDCA is a grassroots organization that advances the interests of South Dakota cattlemen through representation and promotion of the beef industry. To learn more about SDCA, or to become a member, please visit sdcattlemen.org or contact Lorrin Naasz.
“Charles and Heather Maude endured a heart wrenching burden on their family caused by overzealous prosecution that could have led to a decade in federal prison,” said Warren Symens, SDCA President. “SDCA is thankful to Secretary Rollins for finally ending the drawn out persecution of the Maude family and reeling in the rogue federal agents and the Department of Justice.”
Since these charges first came to light a year ago, SDCA remained in close contact with the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) and the Public Lands Council (PLC) to support the Maudes and correct this government overreach. SDCA’s partnership with these national organizations brings federal weight to state-based issues. NCBA and PLC conducted several meetings with senior Forest Service and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) officials to address rampant issues with USFS administrative and law enforcement process. SDCA elevated the issue in their meetings with Senator John Thune, Senator Mike Rounds, and Congressman Dusty Johnson to ensure resolution of the matter was a priority.
“The SDCA will continue working to preserve good relations between landowners and government agencies,” said Symens. “This situation is an important reminder of why industry organizations exist – working together to be a voice for ranchers and defend their interests.”
The SDCA is a grassroots organization that advances the interests of South Dakota cattlemen through representation and promotion of the beef industry. To learn more about SDCA, or to become a member, please visit sdcattlemen.org or contact Lorrin Naasz.