The South Dakota Dairy Association, founded in 1904, played a key role in advancing the state's dairy industry. It promoted dairy farming practices, supported producers, and contributed to the sector's economic impact. The association was governed by a board including a president, vice-president, and secretary-treasurer, ensuring strategic direction. Since 1976, South Dakota State University has hosted the South Dakota Dairymen’s Conference, later renamed the Dairy and Forage Conference. Annual conventions facilitated industry collaboration and policy discussions. In 1993, the association merged with the North Dakota and Minnesota dairy promotion councils to form the American Dairy Association and Dairy Council.