Fall River Feedyard, LLC located in the southern Black Hills near Hot Springs, SD, is the state’s largest custom cattle feeding facility with a 25,000-head capacity. We specialize in feeding cows and yearlings while prioritizing the well-being of both our cattle and employees. With a dedicated team across five departments, we’re committed to innovation, continuous improvement, and creating a positive, family-oriented environment.

Our People & Community

Our success comes from the dedication and commitment of our team members. At Fall River Feedyard, LLC we strive to provide a safe working environment, competitive wages and benefits, and the opportunity to be part of a winning team in our industry. Employees are encouraged to maintain balanced lives and to grow both personally and professionally. We hold ourselves to the highest standards of honesty, integrity, and professionalism in everything we do.

Additionally, we are grateful for the communities where we live and work, and actively seek opportunities to participate in and support local organizations and events that strengthen and benefit our neighbors and families. By investing in our community, we are also investing in our future.

We are committed to supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders by offering an internship program and educational tours of our facility. These opportunities provide hands-on learning, mentorship, and a chance to explore the many diverse career paths within the ag industry.

Located just south of Maverick Junction near Angostura Reservoir in South Dakota, Fall River Feedyard, LLC has been a cornerstone of the region’s cattle industry since opening its gates in 1970. With the hard work and vision of men like Charles “Topper” Largent and Louie Altringer, the operation quickly became a trusted name in cattle feeding—a reputation it proudly carries forward today.

The idea for the feedyard began when Black Hills Packing Company created a strong demand for cattle. Angostura’s abundant water, moderate weather, proximity to processing plants, and plentiful feed production made this an ideal location. The sandy soil was another advantage, offering superior drainage and comfort for cattle compared to other feedlot surfaces.

Community support was key from the start. The Hot Springs Area Development Corporation helped secure financing, incorporating on March 26, 1969, with the goal of developing a sound agricultural business that would strengthen both local ranching and the regional economy. Early investors included Hubbard Milling Company and John Hancock Insurance.

After financing and land acquisition were finalized, a groundbreaking ceremony was held on June 1, 1970, for the future $900,000 Fall River Feedlot. More than 500 people—including South Dakota Governor Frank Farrar, members of the legislature, and representatives from the Development Corporation—attended the event. Construction began on the original 10,400-head feedlot, which was completed in November of that same year.

By May 25, 1971, Fall River Feedlot had satisfied its obligations to the Development Corporation, with Hubbard Milling Company of Mankato, MN, becoming the parent company. Just two years later, Phase II was completed, increasing capacity to 17,000 head.

In 1997, the feedlot was purchased by Four States Feeders and renamed Fall River Feedyard, LLC. Today, it stands as the largest feedyard in South Dakota, operating on 320 acres with an additional 1,000 acres of farm ground. With a current capacity of 25,000 head, the operation has shifted its focus from calves and yearlings to primarily cull cows.

Through every stage of growth and change, Fall River Feedyard, LLC has remained committed to innovation, animal care, and industry leadership—building on a proud history and laying the groundwork for continued success. Check out this article from August 2024, edition of the Fall River County Herald Star highlighting the most recent improvements.

Sources:
Mike Homelvig; How to Spell Hoar With an “H” by Darrell Hoar, Fall River County Herald Star

Our History