FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 13, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Appoints Kory Bierle and Ross Cuny to Brand Board

Outlines Board Expectations

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden appointed Kory Bierle and Ross Cuny to the South Dakota Brand Board. The Governor also outlined his expectations for continued improvement in the Brand Board’s operations. He sent those directives in a memo to the Brand Board members, which can be found here.

“Our livestock industry is built on hard work, stewardship, and trust, and the Brand Board helps safeguard those values,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “Kory and Ross bring generations of ranching experience, and I am confident their leadership will help preserve the integrity of our livestock industry and protect producers.”

Kory Bierle is a fifth-generation rancher who operates Madsen Ranch Land & Cattle, a commercial cow/calf operation near Midland, South Dakota, that focuses on sustainability and conservation. He also serves as the Southern Regional Director of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association. You can find a photo of Kory Bierle here.

“I would like to thank Governor Rhoden for the opportunity to serve on the Brand Board of South Dakota,” said Kory Bierle. “I consider it an honor to help administer the registration and ownership inspection programs of the Board to help ensure that this historic program can continue to help preserve the privileges of personal property ownership for all of South Dakota.”

Ross Cuny is a fifth-generation rancher from Buffalo Gap, South Dakota. He studied range management at the University of Wyoming and has been ranching full-time since returning to the ranch in 2005. You can find a photo of Ross Cuny here.

“I am deeply honored by Governor Rhoden’s appointment of me to the South Dakota Brand Board,” said Ross Cuny. “I am excited to help advance the board’s mission and make meaningful impact for our state.”

You can learn more about the Brand Board here.

###