By Scout Nelson
In honor of Mother’s Day, South Dakota Farmers Union celebrates the important role of farm and ranch moms who help sustain the state’s top industry—agriculture. Their stories reflect love, resilience, and dedication to both family and farm.
One mother share how her family bonds by spending time together on the farm. Though her home is in town, she and her children often stay at the farm to help with cattle, crops, and feedlot work. She left her job as a dental assistant to raise her children and later returned to work at the local school.
“Farm life opens so many opportunities and doors for them. It gives them so many experiences they would not have otherwise,” she says. Her children have learned responsibility and independence from daily farm tasks and time spent together.
Another mom, who grew up on a farm, now balances a career in healthcare and parenting. Although she once dreamt of city life, she chose to raise her family on the farm and is now grateful for that choice.
“The farm is a great place for them to learn responsibility,” she says. Her children care for animals and play freely in nature. While her job keeps her busy, she finds strength in her support system and values self-care to stay strong for her family.
These moms not only help run households but also support farm operations, pass on values, and plan. Their love for the land and their children’s growth reflect the strength of rural mothers across the state.
This Mother’s Day, we thank the women who nurture families and help grow South Dakota agriculture.
Photo Credit:gettyimages-shotbydave
Categories: South Dakota, General