South Dakota rancher rescued after battling blizzard for more than a day

Ryan Spartz 1280x720.jpg

Photo via Brooklyn Shandell Gran Facebook page

Producers across the Midwest have been pummeled with snow and extreme wintry conditions for more than a week now. The storm is taking a toll on both cattle and producers.

It has left many stranded, whether at home or on highways. For one South Dakota rancher, he was found stuck in a pasture.

Rodney Paulson is an elderly rancher who got stuck after going out to feed his cattle. Thankfully, his neighbor spotted him, but the conditions were too extreme for his equipment to manage. This meant Paulson had to stay in his tractor overnight, but thankfully he had fuel and heat.

The neighbor, Gus Gran, worked endlessly to find someone with big enough equipment to get to Paulson. Then comes in trucker, Ryan Spartz. He was driving a tracked tractor during the storm hoping to get across South Dakota.

Using Spartz’ tractor, they were able to reach Paulson by blowing through snow drifts. They called it “a cakewalk.”

After more than 27 hours stranded in the field, Paulson was rescued.

Story via Carter Schmidt with Keloland

Related Stories
National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne William talks about Wear Blue Day, the history of the blue jacket, and why the tradition continues to inspire pride and connection among FFA members nationwide.
National FFA Annual Fund Manager Kimberly Coveney encouraged everyone watching to join the effort today and help celebrate Give FFA Day while investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Tennessee FFA officers join us in the RFD-TV Studios to showcase student leadership and inspire support for agricultural education on Give FFA Day 2026.
National FFA President Trey Myers shares the significance of Give FFA Day, its role in supporting student growth, and how communities can join the celebration to make a difference for future agricultural leaders.
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital officially becomes Dolly Parton Children’s Hospital, marking a new era of compassionate, world-class pediatric care in Tennessee.
As National FFA Week continues, Ag Teacher Appreciation Day serves as a reminder of the lasting impact ag educators have on students, communities, and the future of American agriculture.

Rural Lifestyle & Entertainment Shows
Bill Gaither, the founder of one of gospel’s most successful groups, the Gaither Vocal Band, and his wife, Gloria, are delighted to showcase their favorite gospel music during “Gaither Gospel Hour” on RFD-TV.
Celebrating 16 Consecutive Seasons on RFD Network! “The Penny Gilley Show,” starring “The Sweetheart of Country Music” herself, Penny Gilley.
Ray’s Roadhouse is a weekly program featuring the music of Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel. Ray and his band Asleep at the Wheel has had a more than 50 year career in the music industry and over the years have earned nine Grammy Awards. The program also will feature guest performers such as Pat Green, Stoney LaRue and Kelly Willis.
“Texas Our Texas” – a magical place. A place of land and legend. A place like no other. People come here to touch it, to feel the passion, to soak it in and be a part of it. Hosted by Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller. Let’s ride!
RFD+ EXCLUSIVE | This hour-long show explores the trains and locomotives that aided the growth of travel, further settlement, and the development of a variety of American industries and agricultural ventures.