South Dakota Rancher Appointed to State Brand Board

Kory Bierle, a fifth-generation rancher, joins the South Dakota Brand Board.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Governor Larry Rhoden has appointed Kory Bierle, a fifth-generation rancher who owns and operates Madsen Ranch Land & Cattle near Midland, South Dakota, to the South Dakota Brand Board. Bierle has been actively involved with the South Dakota Cattlemen's Association (SDCA), serving as the Southern Region Director and chair of the SDCA Brand Committee.

Why it matters

The South Dakota Brand Board is responsible for overseeing the state's cattle branding system, which is an important part of the state's ranching heritage and helps prevent cattle theft. Bierle's appointment brings the perspective of an active rancher to the board.

The details

Bierle and his wife Robin, daughter Sage, and son Kruse operate Madsen Ranch Land & Cattle, a commercial cow/calf operation. Twelve of the ranch's registered brands are old family brands, which Bierle considers an honor to continue using and keep alive. In addition to his work with SDCA, Bierle has been involved with the Brand Board ad hoc working group.

  • Governor Larry Rhoden appointed Kory Bierle to the South Dakota Brand Board on February 16, 2026.

The players

Kory Bierle

A fifth-generation rancher who owns and operates Madsen Ranch Land & Cattle, a commercial cow/calf operation near Midland, South Dakota.

Larry Rhoden

The Governor of South Dakota who appointed Kory Bierle to the South Dakota Brand Board.

South Dakota Cattlemen's Association (SDCA)

A grassroots, membership organization representing members across all segments of the cattle industry in South Dakota, which submitted Bierle's name for consideration to the Brand Board.

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What they’re saying

“All of the brands, except for one, are old family brands. I consider it an honor to continue the family tradition and keep these brands alive. Even though our surnames might be different, the brands unite our family's heritage through the generations.”

— Kory Bierle, Rancher (americanagnetwork.com)

What’s next

The South Dakota Brand Board, which is composed of five members appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate, will now work with Kory Bierle to oversee the state's cattle branding system.

The takeaway

Kory Bierle's appointment to the South Dakota Brand Board brings the perspective of an active, fifth-generation rancher to the oversight of the state's important cattle branding system, which helps preserve the state's ranching heritage and prevent cattle theft.