Tourism

South Dakota’s “Mount Rushmore’s American Pride” Float Appears in the Annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®
For the tenth consecutive year, the “Mount Rushmore’s American Pride” float will appear in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade®.

Public Safety

Dewey County Fatal Crash
RIDGEVIEW, S.D. – One person died Saturday night in a two-vehicle crash west of Ridgeview.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Honoring our Nation’s Veterans
When I became governor, I told my team that I wanted to be a governor that doesn’t just say thank you to our veterans – the people who fought for our freedoms. I want to be a leader that demonstrates that gratitude in the policy we make and the actions we take.

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Gene Abdallah
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Monday, November 11, 2019, to honor the life of Gene Abdallah, a former legislator.

Corrections

Inmate Ronny Crawford in custody
Crawford was arrested in Rapid City on Nov. 7.

Human Services

Free Assistance During Medicare Open Enrollment Still Available
The South Dakota Senior Health Information and Insurance Education (SHIINE) program would like to remind all Medicare beneficiaries there is still time to receive free assistance during the Medicare open enrollment period.

Public Safety

Names Released in Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Names now have been released of the two Sioux Falls juvenile males involved in a one-vehicle fatal crash Tuesday night in Sioux Falls.

Labor and Regulation

Governor Noem Recognizes Registered Apprenticeship Week in South Dakota
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Nov. 11-17 as Registered Apprenticeship Week in South Dakota.

Public Safety

DPS: State’s REAL ID System Meets Federal Requirement
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has announced that South Dakota is now more than 99 percent compliant in its efforts to meet the federal government’s enforcement deadline of the Real ID license regulations next year.

Names Released in Fall River County Fatal Crash
OELRICHS, S.D. – An Olglala, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash north of Oelrichs.

Tourism

South Dakota Department of Tourism Wins Eight Top Travel Industry Award
The South Dakota Department of Tourism recently won eight awards in a prestigious international marketing competition. This is the most Adrian Awards the department has ever won in a single year.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Governor Noem Awards Seven Community Development Block Grants
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem has awarded more than $4.4 million in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to seven projects throughout South Dakota. Avon, Delmont, Hot Springs, Irene, Marion, Viborg and Whitewood will use the approved monies to help fund projects totaling more than $20 million.

South Dakota Lottery

South Dakotans win trip to Times Square, chance at $1 million
Thanks to a second chance drawing, a pair of South Dakota Lottery players will ring in the new year in New York and could return as a millionaire.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Proclaims November as Adoption Awareness Month
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed November as Adoption Awareness Month and has encouraged families to record short videos about their adoption experience and share them on social media using the hashtag #SDAdoptionMonth.

Noem Recognizes Businesses, Individuals Who Contribute to Disability Employment
This week, Governor Kristi Noem presented the 2019 Governor’s Awards to South Dakota businesses and individuals who have made significant contributions to the employment of people with disabilities.

Education

Cultural Heritage Center program focuses on frontier Army
New tales of the Army of the Old West will be told at a Tuesday, Nov. 12, program at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Game, Fish and Parks

New Book Documents 100 Years of Pheasant Hunting in South Dakota
PIERRE, S.D. - South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is pleased to announce the release of the South Dakota Pheasant Hunting Seasons Data Book. Author Lonnie Shafer, a retired history teacher from York, Nebraska, has dedicated years of study to pheasants in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Minnehaha County Fatal Crash
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – One person died and another was seriously injured in a one-vehicle rollover Tuesday night in Sioux Falls

Names Released in Bon Homme County Fatal Crash
SCOTLAND, S.D. – Names have been released of the two adults and one juvenile who died in a two-vehicle crash Friday south of Scotland.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Displays MMIW Quilt in South Dakota State Capitol
This week, Governor Kristi Noem hosted a ceremony to display a quilt presented to her following a June horseback ride to raise awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW). The quilt is currently displayed in the Governor’s Reception Office and will be permanently displayed in the South Dakota State Capitol.

Noem Releases Statement on USDA Hemp Guidelines
Governor Kristi Noem today issued the following statement regarding the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) new regulatory guidelines for industrial hemp:

Public Safety

Names Released in Miner County Fatal Crash
HOWARD, S.D. – A Valley Springs, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died last Thursday in a two-vehicle crash west of Howard.

Names Released in Roberts County Fatal Crash
BROWNS VALLEY, S.D. – A Sisseton, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Browns Valley.

Transportation

Highway 37 Temporary Closed at North Dakota Border
The South Dakota Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the North Dakota Department of Transportation, has closed Highway 37 at the ND/SD border due to water and ice on the roadway making safe travel impossible.

Corrections

Inmate Sheena Browning in custody
State prison inmate Sheena Browning is in custody.

Public Safety

Names Released in Lincoln County Fatal Crash
BERESFORD, S.D. – A Sioux Falls, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died in a fatal crash involving four vehicles early Wednesday morning north of Beresford.

Fall River County Fatal Crash
OELRICHS, S.D. – One person died early Sunday morning in a one-vehicle crash north of Oelrichs.

Public Safety

Roberts County Fatal Crash
BROWNS VALLEY, S.D. – One person died and three others were seriously injured Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash south of Browns Valley.

Bon Homme County Fatal Crash
SCOTLAND, S.D. – One adult and one juvenile died and another person was seriously injured Friday morning in a two-vehicle crash south of Scotland.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Protecting and Preserving Our Outdoor Treasures
South Dakota's beautiful outdoors are here for all of us to enjoy – for today and for the next generation. We must all take care of them together.

Noem Launches Registration for Inaugural South Dakota LEADS Conference
Governor Kristi Noem today launched registration for the first-ever South Dakota LEADS Conference. The free, one-day event will feature dynamic speakers including Clint Pulver, and specialized tracks for teachers, students, and women. The event will happen Monday, Dec. 9 in Sioux Falls.

Corrections

Inmate Jacob Abdo in Custody
Abdo was arrested in Sioux Falls Oct. 31.

Execution Date, Time Set for Inmate Charles Rhines
In accordance with South Dakota Codified Law 23A-27A-17, Director of Prison Operations and Chief Warden Darin Young has set the date and time for the execution of Inmate Charles Rhines for Monday, November 4, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.

Education

Women’s suffrage exhibit to open Nov. 16 at Cultural Heritage Center
The nationwide celebration of women’s suffrage continues at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre with the opening of a new exhibit on Saturday, Nov. 16.

Game, Fish and Parks

Chronic Wasting Disease Confirmed in Bennett County
PIERRE, S.D. – Samples collected from a sick deer found south of Martin have been confirmed to be in the late stages of chronic wasting disease (CWD).

Second Century Working Lands Habitat Program Provides Opportunity
PIERRE, S.D. – Earlier this summer, South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem introduced a key component of her Second Century Initiative – the Second Century Working Lands Habitat Program. Administered by the Second Century Habitat Fund, the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization is dedicated to enhancing wildlife habitat and getting the next generation involved in outdoor recreation.

Labor and Regulation

ACA Health Insurance Enrollment for 2020 Coverage Now Open
The South Dakota Division of Insurance reminds consumers the Affordable Care Act (ACA) open enrollment for 2020 coverage runs from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, 2019, for consumers with individual policies.

Tourism

SOUTH DAKOTA ARTS COUNCIL TO MEET NOV. 8
PIERRE, S.D. – Members of the South Dakota Arts Council, the advisory board of the Office of Arts, will gather in Pierre, Friday, Nov. 8, for the Council’s annual fall meeting.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Urges EPA to Reconsider Proposed Biofuels Rules
Governor Kristi Noem and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz yesterday sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Andrew Wheeler urging the agency to honor President Donald Trump’s commitment to follow the Renewable Fuel Standard.

Public Safety

Miner County Fatal Crash
HOWARD, S.D. – One person died Thursday morning in a two-vehicle crash west of Howard.

State Capitol to Implement New Safety Measures
PIERRE, S.D. – Secretary Craig Price and the Department of Public Safety today announced that a new safety measure designed to keep South Dakota’s state Capitol building safe and accessible to the public will begin this fall.

Transportation

Construction on Interstate 229 in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says southbound traffic on Interstate 229 at Western Avenue will be reduced to one lane beginning Friday, Nov. 1.

Agriculture

South Dakota Department of Agriculture Requests Input to Revise the Coordinated Plan for Natural Resources
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture is revising the 2012 Coordinated Plan for Natural Resources (the Plan) and is requesting public input.

Education

South Dakota NAEP scores hold steady
South Dakota scores on the 2019 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), known as the Nation’s Report Card, are mostly steady and remain at or above national scores. Bright spots include state scores in eighth-grade math and fourth-grade reading.

Game, Fish and Parks

Custer State Park to Hold Annual Bison Auction
CUSTER, S.D. – The 2019 Custer State Park Fall Classic Bison Auction will be held on Saturday, Nov. 2, at the park’s visitor center where approximately 432 head will be available for sale.

Public Safety

Lincoln County Fatal Crash
BERESFORD, S.D. – One person died and two others were injured in a fatal crash involving four vehicles early Wednesday morning north of Beresford.

Transportation

SOUTH DAKOTA PROGRAM TO REDUCE ROADWAY DEPARTURE CRASHES IN WINTER WEATHER WINS NATIONAL ROADWAY SAFETY AWARD
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) was honored last week in a ceremony on Capitol Hill with a National Roadway Safety Award for the success of its “High Friction Surface Treatment” (HFST) program to address road departure crashes in winter weather.

Governor Kristi Noem

Lieutenant Governor Rhoden to Host Trick-or-Treat Festivities at Governor’s Residence
Lieutenant Governor Larry Rhoden and Sandy Rhoden will host the annual trick-or-treat festivities at the Governor’s Residence in Pierre on Thursday, Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. CT.

Public Safety

Name Released In Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – A 49-year-old Keystone, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died early Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Keystone.

DPS Announces November Sobriety Checkpoints
PIERRE, S.D. – State Department of Public Safety officials say sobriety checkpoints are planned in 18 counties statewide during November.

Governor Kristi Noem

State Senator Solano Announces Resignation, Noem Seeks Public Input on Replacement
Senator Alan Solano today announced that he will resign his seat in the State Senate effective November 30. Solano has represented District 32 in the State Senate since 2014.

Noem Requests Federal Help for Southeastern South Dakota Following September Tornadoes, Floods
Governor Kristi Noem has requested a presidential disaster declaration for damage done by September storms in South Dakota, including the three tornadoes that struck portions of Sioux Falls and extreme flooding that occurred in the cities of Madison and Mitchell.

Agriculture

Scholarship Prizes Available for Resource Conservation Speech Contest Winners
Contestants in the 2020 State Finals of the Resource Conservation Speech contest are eligible to win a total of $2,300 in college scholarships.

Corrections

Doug Clark Named Deputy Secretary of Corrections
Doug Clark has been named as Deputy Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Corrections (DOC), replacing Laurie Feiler, who has announced her retirement effective in December.

Education

Brookings special education director earns national recognition
Wendy Otheim, special education director for the Brookings School District, was honored at the national level today as the 2019 CASE Outstanding Administrator of Special Education. The Council of Administrators of Special Education is an international professional association.

Public Safety

Daylight Savings Times End Sunday Make Sure To Check Smoke Alarms
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota homeowners are reminded to take care of their clocks and smoke alarms this weekend.

Public Safety

Charles Mix County Fatal Crash
WAGNER, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Saturday night in a one-vehicle crash southwest of Wagner.

Names Released in Kingsbury County Fatal Crash
ARLINGTON, S.D. – A 37-year-old man has died of injuries sustained in a two-vehicle crash that occurred on Sept. 28, 2019 southwest of Arlington.

Public Safety

Pennington County Fatal Crash
KEYSTONE, S.D. – One person died early Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Keystone.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Releases Statement after Parties Involved in DRA v. Noem File for Settlement
Governor Kristi Noem today released the following statement after the parties involved in Dakota Rural Action v. Noem filed for a settlement.

Corrections

Inmate Brandon James Dies
State prison inmate Brandon James has died following an illness.

Human Services

Innovation Grant Funding Recipients Announced
The South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) today announced their selection of 25 nursing facilities that will receive innovation grant funding.

Transportation

Ramps Opening on I-90 Exit 402
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will be opening the on and off ramps of Exit 402 on Interstate 90 Friday, Oct. 25.

Agriculture

South Dakota 2020 Forest Action Plan for Public Comment
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture (SDDA) Resource Conservation and Forestry Division completed its draft of the Forest Action Plan revision for 2020.

Game, Fish and Parks

Zebra Mussels Confirmed in Lake Francis Case
Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) has confirmed the presence of adult zebra mussels in Lake Francis Case.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Announces District 23 Legislative Appointment
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that she has appointed James “JD” Wangsness to represent District 23 in the South Dakota House of Representatives. The vacancy was created after Rep. John Lake was appointed to the District 23 Senate seat. Wangsness will serve during the 2020 legislative session.

Game, Fish and Parks

Division of Parks and Recreation Honors Employees
RAPID CITY, S.D. - The South Dakota Division of Parks and Recreation recently recognized several individuals for their dedication and hard work in the state parks system. The awards were made at the division’s fall meeting earlier this month in Rapid City.

Transportation

Construction Starting on Westbound Interstate 90 Bridges over Interstate 29 and Silver Creek
Starting today, Oct. 22, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin high surface friction treatment work in the westbound passing lane of the Interstate 90 bridge over Interstate 29 and the westbound driving lane of Interstate 90 bridge over Silver Creek.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem, Bryon Noem Launch First Gentleman’s Initiative
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem and First Gentleman Bryon Noem today launched South Dakota’s first-ever First Gentleman’s Initiative on social media.

Agriculture

Specialty Crop Sector in South Dakota Receives Grant Funding Support
In September, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture awarded $342,880 to six specialty crop projects around the state.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Saturday, October 19, 2019, to honor the life of Joyce Hodges, a former legislator.

Governor's Column: Pheasant Hunting - A South Dakota Tradition
I grew up hunting. Dad took us big-game hunting, but it was my Grandma Dorris who made bird hunting such a big part of our family heritage. Still today, it’s something that brings my family together. (And how grateful this mom is for that!)

Public Safety

Name Released in Clark County Fatal Crash
CLARK, S.D – A Fargo, N.D., woman now has officially been identified by the South Dakota Highway Patrol as the person who died Tuesday in a two-vehicle crash east of Clark.

Veterans Affairs

Veterans, Beware of Scammers
We’ve all seen or read news stories about individuals and companies taking advantage of veterans and their dependents. Many veterans and/or their dependents receive benefits through the Federal Department of Veterans Affairs, their states or other entities, and as such are seen as a valuable resource to scam.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Elijah Cummings
Upon the directive of President Donald Trump, Governor Kristi Noem today ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff beginning immediately until sunset on October 18, 2019, in memory of Representative Elijah E. Cummings.

Corrections

Inmate Laney Bacon in custody
State prison inmate Laney Bacon is in custody.

Inmate Ronny Crawford Placed on Escape Status
After being returned to the Rapid City Community Work Center from his community service jobsite, Crawford left the facility without authorization Oct. 17.

Inmate Sheena Browning Placed on Escape Status
Browning left her assigned community placement in Sioux Falls without authorization on Oct. 17.

Inmate Garreth Gannon Dies
State prison inmate Garreth Gannon has died following an illness.

Education

Make-n-Take Holiday Ornament event Nov. 2 at Cultural Heritage Center
Get ready for the holiday season by making handmade holiday ornaments on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. CDT at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Tourism

Call for Artists: Art for State Buildings Proposals
South Dakota artists have until March 9, 2020, to submit purchase proposals for the Art for State Buildings Program.

Game, Fish and Parks

S.D. State Parks to Host Halloween Events
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is celebrating Halloween with special events at state parks.

Public Safety

Name Released in Stanley County Fatal Crash
HAYES, S.D – A Blunt, S.D. woman has been identified as the person who died Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Hayes.

Transportation

Railroad Crossing Work To Begin in Wall
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says railroad crossing work will begin in Wall on the Interstate 90 Loop/Hwy 240 near the Wall School on Friday, Oct. 18.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Administration Receives Nearly $2 Million in Grants for School Security
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that South Dakota received three grants totaling almost $2 million to help South Dakota school districts prevent and address threats of violence.

Human Services

2019 Governor’s Awards Ceremony Scheduled
Governor Kristi Noem will recognize individuals and employers for their contributions to the rehabilitation and employment of South Dakotans with disabilities at the 2019 Governor’s Awards ceremony on Nov. 4.

Public Safety

Clark County Fatal Crash
CLARK, S.D – One woman died Tuesday morning in a two-vehicle crash east of Clark.

Name Released in Lyman County Fatal Crash
KENNEBEC, S.D – A Shenandoah, Iowa man died Friday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash east of Kennebec, S.D.

Tourism

Governor appoints Roripaugh to South Dakota Arts Council
PIERRE, S.D. — Gov. Kristi Noem has appointed Lee Ann Roripaugh to serve on the South Dakota Arts Council.

South Dakota Department of Tourism Wins Award for Industry Website
The South Dakota Department of Tourism and marketing agency Miles Partnership were awarded a 2019 WebAward for Outstanding Achievement in Web Development by the Web Marketing Association. The winning entry was the launch of the department’s new industry website, SDVisit.com.

Public Safety

Stanley County Fatal Crash
HAYES, S.D – A 50-year-old woman died Saturday morning in a one-vehicle crash west of Hayes.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Capitol Flags at Half-Staff to Honor Former Legislator
Governor Kristi Noem has ordered flags at the South Dakota State Capitol to be flown at half-staff from 8 a.m. until sunset on Saturday, October 12, 2019, to honor the life of Doris Miner, a former legislator.

Noem Announces Avera Health Plans and Sanford Health Plan to Offer ABA Coverage in 2020
Governor Kristi Noem, in conjunction with Avera Health Plans and Sanford Health Plan, is pleased to announce health insurance coverage options that include Applied Behavioral Analysis (ABA) therapy in the South Dakota insurance market for 2020.

Governor's Column: Recognizing Native Americans’ Day
Each October, we celebrate Native Americans' Day – an opportunity to honor South Dakota's nine Native American tribes, as well as their heritage, culture, and tradition.

Education

South Dakota’s state bird coming to Cultural Heritage Center on Oct. 19
Pheasant hunting season kicks off Saturday, Oct. 19, but you won’t need a gun to bring down pheasants at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre. Visitors can create their own flying pheasant corncob dart at Family Fun Saturday from 10-11:30 a.m. CDT.

State Historical Society releases first-ever study of woman suffrage in Northern Great Plains
Stories about the national movement for woman suffrage are now available from the South Dakota State Historical Society. The anthology explores the impact of the Northern Great Plains states—South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana, and Wyoming—on the national movement.

Agriculture

2019 SD State Fair Measurements of Success
This year’s theme, “There’s No Time Like Fair Time,” proved to be true.

Corrections

Inmate Christopher Bowen Back In Custody
State prison inmate Christopher Bowen is back in custody. He was arrested in Kandiyohi, MN on Oct. 9.

Labor and Regulation

Labor Department Awarding Youth Apprenticeship Funds
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) is awarding four contracts up to $50,000 each for the Pathway Partnership Initiative.

State Minimum Wage to Increase Jan. 1
The state minimum wage will increase from $9.10/hour to $9.30/hour effective Jan. 1, 2020.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Releases Attorney General’s Report on Minnehaha State’s Attorney
Governor Kristi Noem today released the summary of Attorney General Jason Ravnsborg’s investigation into Minnehaha State’s Attorney Aaron McGowan.

Education

Author to share childhood story at Cultural Heritage Center program
On Thursday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. CDT, author Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve will share a story of family, generosity, and joy from her childhood as told in “The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood” as part of the History and Heritage Book Club at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Rightfully Hers exhibit showing at Cultural Heritage Center
Now through the end of the year, the South Dakota State Historical Society-State Archives will host a new popup exhibition from the National Archives at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP Commission Creates Deer and Elk Carcass Transportation and Disposal Rules to Combat the Spread of Chronic Wasting Disease
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission has created regulations for the transportation and disposal of deer and elk carcasses from other states and from hunting units within South Dakota's confirmed chronic wasting disease (CWD) areas. The new regulations will not go into effect until the 2020 hunting seasons.

GFP Commission Adjusts Aquatic Invasive Species and Containment Waters Lists, Fish Importation Rules
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – With the discovery of zebra mussels in Lake Sharpe and the high probability of the mussels being present in Lake Francis Case, the Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission added those reservoirs to the list of designated containment waters for aquatic invasive species (AIS) management.

GFP Commission Increases Park and Camping Fees
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission moved forward with a proposal to increase state park entrance fees for the first time since 2014. The Commission also took action to raise select camping fees, many of which had also been unchanged for several years.

GFP Commission Rejects Lake Aeration Rule
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission discussed a proposed new rule to establish the department as the designated agent of the commission for the permitting of aeration systems in meandered waters or other waters to which the state has acquired a right, title or interest.

GFP Commission Rejects Modifications to the Hoop Net, Trap and Setline Regulations
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission discussed several changes to the state’s hoop net, trap and setline regulations.

GFP Commission Rejects Modifications to Trapping Regulations
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission denied proposals to modify the period in which a trapper must check their set traps and snares. In response to a public petition and discussion of an alternative approach between the GFP Commission and Department, two alternate proposals were considered.

GFP Commission Denies Proposal to Allow for Expanded Use of Telescopic Muzzleloader Optics
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission voted to leave current regulations in place regarding telescopics on muzzleloaders, which do not allow scopes that use magnification, 1X scopes remain legal.

No Change to Using Horses While Dog Training on Public Lands
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission rejected a proposal to adjust the days when dog training on horseback can occur on public lands.

Changes to the Mountain Lion Hunting Season, Expansion of Custer State Park Coyote Hunting
CHAMBERLAIN, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission made several changes to the mountain lion hunting season.

Governor Kristi Noem

President Trump Approves Third South Dakota Disaster Request
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that President Trump has approved the State’s request for a third Presidential Disaster Declaration, covering the damage done by severe storms, tornadoes, and flooding that occurred June 30-July 21.

Education

Wild Bill Hickok featured in “South Dakota History”
A special issue of “South Dakota History,” the quarterly journal of the South Dakota State Historical Society, highlights the legacy of James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok.

Public Safety

Name Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
SPEARFISH, S.D.- A Lead, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died Wednesday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash southwest of Spearfish.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Orders Flags at Half-Staff on October 6
Upon the directive of President Donald Trump, Governor Kristi Noem ordered flags across the state to be flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on Sunday, October 6, 2019, to memorialize fallen firefighters.

Governor's Column: Serving South Dakota
Since becoming governor, I have been continually reminded that strengthening South Dakota for the next generation is a task I cannot accomplish on my own. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made in the last nine months, but what most people don’t have the privilege of seeing are the state employees – the incredible public servants – who work day in and day out to make South Dakota great.

Governor Noem Calls Trump’s Biofuels Plan a “Big Win for Producers”
Governor Kristi Noem, a long-time ethanol advocate, today applauded the Trump administration's new plan to promote biofuels and expand ethanol production.

Corrections

State Prison Inmate Christopher Bowen Placed on Escape Status
Bowen left the Rapid City Community Work Center without authorization this morning.

State Prison Inmate Ira Wright Placed on Escape Status
State prison inmate Ira Wright was placed on escape status Oct. 3.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Artists Selected for 2019 Prairie Showcase
Twenty-seven South Dakota artists will showcase their talent at the Prairie Art Showcase, held in conjunction with the annual Governor’s Invitational Pheasant Hunt.

Public Safety

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
SPEARFISH, S.D. – One woman died Wednesday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash southwest of Spearfish

SD Fire Marshal: Practice Your Fire Escape Plans
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Fire Marshal encourages families to celebrate this year’s Fire Prevention Week by making and practicing an escape plan.

Transportation

Block Closure Work Begins on U.S. Highway 212 in Watertown
On Monday, Oct. 7, Reede Construction will move into the Phase 1 Block Closure portion of the Highway 212 project.

Additional Lane Closures on Highway 212
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says the contractor will be closing Highway 212, one-half at a time, starting Monday, Oct. 7, from the Highway 15 south junction west for one mile.

Board of Regents

Student Groups from DSU and NSU Recognized for Excellence
The South Dakota Board of Regents recognized student organizations from Dakota State University and Northern State University for excellence in academic, community, and organizational work.

Transportation

Updated - Construction to Begin on Interstate 90 Exit 396 Ramp
Clarifies closure and detour routes. Starting Monday, Oct. 7, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin high surface friction treatment work on the Interstate 90 Exit 396 ramp to southbound Interstate 29.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Announces Leadership Changes
Governor Kristi Noem today announced the departure of Herb Jones as Chief of Staff to the Governor’s Office and the appointment of Joshua Shields to serve as Chief of Staff and Beth Hollatz to serve as Deputy Chief of Staff.

Game, Fish and Parks

State Park Entrance Licenses Available for 2020
PIERRE, S.D. – The 2020 annual park entrance license for South Dakota's state parks and recreation areas is available for purchase.

Big Sioux Open to Recreation, Lake Herman State Park Opens
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) officials announced that the recreational boating closure on the Big Sioux River in Minnehaha, Moody, Lincoln and Union counties has been lifted. This includes Skunk and Split Rock Creeks.

GFP Commission Meeting In Chamberlain Oct. 3-4
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Commission will hold their monthly meeting at the AmericInn, Oct. 3-4.

Public Safety

October Sobriety Checkpoints Announced
PIERRE, S.D. – Nineteen sobriety checkpoints in 13 different counties are planned for October, according to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Tourism

South Dakota to Become a "State of Create"
The South Dakota Department of Tourism, in partnership with the South Dakota Arts Council, is launching a fall social media campaign called “State of Create.”

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Part II: Manufacturing Matters Because…
MITCHELL, S.D. – As part of a two-part series, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development asked two students from Mitchell Technical Institute (MTI) in Mitchell, South Dakota, and recipients of the Build Dakota Scholarship, about their opinion on the future of manufacturing and why it’s a vital industry to South Dakota. Here’s what they had to say:

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Accepting Applications for Spring Interns
Governor Kristi Noem is now accepting applications for the Governor’s Office spring internship program.

Corrections

State Prison Inmate Doyle Toering Dies
Toering, 42, was found unresponsive in his cell at the South Dakota State Penitentiary on Sept. 29. Efforts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

Game, Fish and Parks

Thousands Attend Buffalo Roundup
CUSTER, S.D. - Over 19,440 visitors attended the 54th Annual Buffalo Roundup at Custer State Park on Friday morning, watching as 60 horseback riders wrangled the herd of 1,400 bison into the corrals for their annual health check.

Governor's Office of Economic Development

Part I: Manufacturing Matters Because…
PIERRE, S.D. – As part of a two-part series, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development asked two high school students from T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre, South Dakota, about their opinion on the future of manufacturing and why it’s a vital industry to South Dakota and the global economy. Here’s what they had to say:

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Grit and Tradition
The roundup is a unique tradition. While it’s a tip of the hat to our historic past when millions of buffalo roamed the Great Plains, it’s also an opportunity to showcase our state’s unique beauty to business leaders and prospects looking to expand their operations to South Dakota

Education

Cultural Heritage Center program focuses on Spotted Tail
An influential leader on the Northern Great Plains will be the focus of an Oct. 8 program at the Cultural Heritage Center.

State Historical Society seeks public input on preservation needs
The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) of the South Dakota State Historical Society at the Cultural Heritage Center in Pierre is preparing for its federal fiscal year 2020 grant application and invites public comment through Oct. 31 on the state’s preservation needs and projects.

Transportation

Work on I-90 near Whitewood
On Monday, Sept. 30, 2019, crews will begin concrete pavement repairs in the westbound lanes of I-90 near Whitewood.

Board of Regents

Board of Regents Releases Fall Enrollment for 2019
Fall enrollment at South Dakota’s six public universities is down 3 percent in full-time equivalent students, the South Dakota Board of Regents reported today.

Environment and Natural Resources

Gov. Noem Announces Nearly $47 Million for Statewide Environmental Projects
Gov. Kristi Noem says the state Board of Water and Natural Resources has approved nearly $47 million for water, wastewater, watershed and solid waste projects.

Game, Fish and Parks

Big Sioux Recreation Area Reopens
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) Department announced that the Big Sioux Recreation Area has reopened.

Human Services

Medicare Open Enrollment Period Begins Oct. 15
Open enrollment for the 2020 Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plan year begins on Oct. 15 and ends on Dec. 7.

Transportation

Highways 20 and 79 Pavement Repair Project Postponed
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is postponing the pavement repair project on Highway 20 and 79 in the northwestern part of the state until 2020 due to weather delays experienced by the contractor.

Game, Fish and Parks

Newton Hills State Park to host the 20th Annual FestiFall
CANTON, S.D. – Newton Hills State Park near Canton will host the 20th annual FestiFall on Oct. 5 from 1-5 p.m. The event features arts and crafts, kid’s activities and musical entertainment.

Transportation

Highway 79 Slide and Erosion Repairs
Beginning the week of Sept. 29, crews will begin slide and erosion repairs at the following locations on Highway 79:

Rail STC Grant Funds Available
The South Dakota Department of Transportation has been informed by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (USDOT) Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) that approximately $12.7 million of Special Transportation Circumstance (STC) grant funds are available the State.

Governor Kristi Noem

President Trump Approves Second South Dakota Disaster Request
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that President Trump has approved the State’s request for a second Presidential Disaster Declaration, allowing federal money to be used to help local governmental entities recover from property damage sustained during severe storms and flooding that occurred statewide in late May and early June.

Human Services

Health and Wellness Fair
Residents of Redfield and surrounding communities will have an opportunity to explore health topics and screenings during a local Health and Wellness Fair.

Labor and Regulation

South Dakota Apprenticeship Program Receives National Excellence Award
The National Association of State Workforce Agencies (NASWA) presented its State Excellence award to the Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) for the Start Today SD Incentive program, an initiative to expand the number of Registered Apprenticeships in South Dakota.

Public Safety

DPS Urges Yankton Sioux Tribe to Use Immediate Options Available For Flood Response
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Public Safety has recommended that the Yankton Sioux Tribe’s request to use the South Dakota National Guard for flood response be declined because other options are immediately available to the tribe.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Announces Prenatal and Primary Care Innovation Grants
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that the Department of Social Services (DSS) has awarded $1 million of innovation grants to improve primary and prenatal care for women in the Medicaid program.

Corrections

State Prison Inmate Robert White Plume-Janis in Custody
Inmate Robert White Plume-Janis was arrested in Rapid City Sept. 22. He is currently being housed in the Pennington County Jail.

Human Services

Disability Employment Awareness Month
Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed October Disability Employment Awareness Month (DEAM) in South Dakota.

Public Safety

Names Released In Fall River County Fatal Crash
EDGEMONT, S.D. – An Edgemont, S.D., man has been identified as the person who died in a four-wheeler rollover last week west of Edgemont.

DPS Issues Safety Reminders After Series of Deadly Vehicle Crashes
PIERRE, S.D. – A recent string of eight vehicle deaths in a four-day period this month has South Dakota Department of Public Safety officials once again urging people to be careful on the state’s roads.

Transportation

Highway 42 Bridge Reopening
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is working to reopen the James River Bridge on Highway 42 the afternoon of Tuesday, Sept. 24.

Highway 12 Being Reduced to One Lane from Roscoe to Ipswich
The South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin asphalt concrete work on Highway 12 from Roscoe to Ipswich on Tuesday, Sept. 24.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: Launching a Week of Work
In mid-September, my team and I announced the official kick-off of our South Dakota Week of Work initiative – a partnership with businesses and schools that will give 10th grade students the opportunity to get out of the classroom, experience the world of work, and see careers that are available right here in South Dakota. It will help teach them soft skills like showing up on time, dressing professionally, and interacting with customers. Our first Week of Work will be April 20-24, 2020.

Emergency Management Plan Receives FEMA Approval
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that South Dakota’s Hazard Mitigation Plan received FEMA approval, allowing the State to receive additional funds in the event of future presidential disaster declarations. South Dakota is one of 13 states that have received this designation.

Noem, U.S. Deputy Secretary of Education Visit CTE Classrooms in Pierre
This week, Governor Kristi Noem and U.S. Department of Education Deputy Secretary Mitchell Zais visited T.F. Riggs High School in Pierre to visit technical education classrooms and discuss the importance of career and technical education (CTE).

Education

WWII Doolittle raider subject of new State Historical Society biography
A secret bombing mission, a crash-landing in China, and a bold escape open the newest biography from the South Dakota State Historical Society.

Labor and Regulation

Adult Education and Family Literacy Week Recognized
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) invites South Dakotans to recognize the annual Adult Education and Family Literacy Week Sept. 22-28.

Transportation

Construction to Begin on Highway 115 (Minnesota Ave.) North of Renner
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Starting Monday, Sept. 23, the South Dakota Department of Transportation will begin pavement repair and high friction surface treatment work on Highway 115 north of Renner from mile marker 93.24 to mile marker 93.82.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem, DOT to Install Four-Way Stop at Intersection Near Woonsocket
Governor Kristi Noem and the South Dakota Department of Transportation today announced that they are working to install additional traffic control measures at the intersection of Highways 34 and 37 in Sanborn County, changing it from a two-way stop to a four-way stop.

Public Safety

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – Nicholas Fettig of Aberdeen has been identified as the person who died late Sunday night in a single-vehicle rollover crash seven miles west of Aberdeen.

Tourism

Department of Tourism Marketing Campaign Targets Leisure Travelers & Hunters
Although the summer travel season is quickly ending, the Department of Tourism’s efforts to promote South Dakota will continue to target leisure travelers and hunters in key markets around the country. Fall and winter marketing efforts kicked off in late August, highlighting the state's seasonal leisure, adventure and hunting opportunities.

Transportation

I-90 Exit 357 Flooding Update
South Dakota Department of Transportation crews have been working this week to create a water barrier along the westbound lanes of Interstate 90, just east of Exit 357 (Bridgewater), to divert the water from continuing to overtop the interstate.

Revenue

Tax collections at 2019 South Dakota State Fair exceed $217,000
Tax collections at the 2019 South Dakota State Fair have increased by 5.79 percent compared to last year.

Veterans Affairs

Taking Care of Heroes – An Unending Legacy
This month we have had two great events to honor and pay tribute to the men and women that served this great country.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Requests Investigation into Minnehaha County State’s Attorney
Governor Kristi Noem sent the following letter today:

Health

Input Sought for Statewide Suicide Prevention Plan
Over the past decade, South Dakota’s suicide rates rose by nearly 40 percent. State agencies along with the Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Health board are working to develop a comprehensive plan to prevent suicide in South Dakota and are seeking public input during the month of September. A draft of the plan is available for review at sdsuicideprevention.org.

Public Safety

Fall River County Fatal Crash
EDGEMONT, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured Tuesday in a one-vehicle crash west of Edgemont.

Names Released in Sanborn County Fatal Crash
WOONSOCKET, S.D. – Three Woonsocket juveniles now officially have been identified as the people who died Saturday night in a three-vehicle crash east of Woonsocket.

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – A Warner male has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a two-vehicle crash four miles west of Aberdeen.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor Noem Delivers Flooding Address
Governor Kristi Noem delivered the following Flooding Address today at 5pm CT:

Corrections

Inmate Chaske Evans In Custody
Evans turned himself in to the Pennington County Jail today.

Inmate Randy High Horse In Custody
High Horse was arrested today in Minnehaha County.

Education

2018-19 Report Card released: English-learners, postsecondary readiness are bright spots
Students whose native language is not English are experiencing increased success in mastering the language, according to the 2018-19 South Dakota Report Card. The number of students considered on track to English language mastery grew from 33 percent in 2017-18 to 45 percent in 2018-19.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP News: Custer State Park to Host Annual Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival
The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) will host the 54th annual Buffalo Roundup and 26th annual Arts Festival in Custer State Park later this month. The Buffalo Roundup begins at 9:30 a.m. MDT on Friday, Sept. 27. The Arts Festival will run from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Saturday, Sept. 28.

Board of Regents

Campus and Community Representatives to Participate in BHSU Presidential Search
A group of 13 people will assist the South Dakota Board of Regents in its search for the next president of Black Hills State University, serving as campus and community representatives on the presidential search and screen committee.

Governor Kristi Noem

Noem Announces Partnership Between DSS, Avera Behavioral Health to Provide Additional Services Following Sioux Falls Tornado
Governor Kristi Noem today announced that South Dakota’s Department of Social Services (DSS) is working with Avera Behavioral Health to provide support for patients affected by the tornado damage in Sioux Falls Tuesday evening.

Noem Announces South Dakota Week of Work to be Held April 20-24, 2020
The South Dakota Week of Work is scheduled for April 20-24, 2020, with the goal of introducing 10th grade students to career opportunities in their communities through job shadows, industry tours, and other business-classroom connections.

Education

Award-winning holiday story now in paperback from State Historical Society
The South Dakota State Historical Society has released a paperback edition of “The Christmas Coat: Memories of My Sioux Childhood,” past winner of an American Indian Youth Literature Award.

Public Safety

Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured late Sunday night in a single-vehicle rollover crash seven miles west of Aberdeen.

Transportation

Highway 44 Rock Scaling
The South Dakota Department of Transportation says rock scaling on Highway 44 between Chapel Lane and Cleghorn Canyon Road will begin Tuesday Sept. 17, at 8 a.m. depending on weather.

Department of Transportation Seeks Public Input into the I-90 Exit 406 (SD11 / Splitrock Boulevard) Interchange EA
The (SDDOT), in collaboration with the Sioux Falls Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and the city of Brandon, will hold a public open house from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Wed. Sept. 18, 2019, at the Holiday Inn Express Convention Center, (1103 N Splitrock Boulevard) to present and collect comments for improvements to the I-90 Exit 406 interchange and associated SD11 / Splitrock Boulevard corridor.

Reminder to Remove Hay Bales from the Right of Way
The South Dakota Department of Transportation reminds land owners hay remaining in highway ditches after Oct. 1 is deemed illegal.

Corrections

Inmate Chaske Evans Placed on Escape Status
Minimum-security Inmate Chaske Evans has been placed on escape status. He left his community service job site in Rapid City today without authorization.

Public Safety

Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Sunday morning west of Aberdeen

Sanborn County Fatal Crash
WOONSOCKET, S.D. – Three people died and two others were injured in a three-vehicle crash that occurred Saturday night east of Woonsocket.

Corrections

Inmate Randy High Horse Placed on Escape Status
Minimum-security Inmate Randy High Horse has been placed on escape status. He left the Sioux Falls Community Work Center this morning without authorization.

Transportation

I90 Open- Drivers Cautioned To Lane Closures and Reduced Speeds
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists that Interstate 90 is open with reduced speeds, lane closures and flaggers monitoring and guiding traffic.

Governor Kristi Noem

Governor's Column: A Tribute to Heroes
Earlier this month, I was honored and humbled to join veterans and South Dakotans as we broke ground on South Dakota’s first State Veterans Cemetery. Despite pouring rain, more than 100 veterans and South Dakotans gathered at the site just outside Sioux Falls for the momentous occasion.

Transportation

I-90 To Remain Closed
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists that portions of I-90 will remain closed overnight and remain closed until further notice.

Portions of I-90 opening
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists that Interstate 90 westbound is open from the Bridgewater Exit 357 west and remains closed from Humboldt Exit 379 to Bridgewater Exit 357 with through traffic detoured at Sioux Falls Exit 396 to northbound I-29.

Agriculture

Deadline for Urban and Community Forestry Grant is October 14
South Dakota communities, non-profit organizations, and Native American tribes are encouraged to apply for a 2019 Urban and Community Forestry Comprehensive Challenge Grant.

Game, Fish and Parks

High Water Causes GFP to Declare No Wake Zones on Lakes Brandt, Madison, Herman and Mitchell
PIERRE, S.D. – High lake levels have caused South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Secretary Kelly Hepler, to declare temporary "no wake zones" on Lake Brandt, Lake Madison and Lake Herman in Lake County and Lake Mitchell in Davison County.

Transportation

I-90 Closed From Exit 310 to I-29
The South Dakota Department of Transportation is advising motorists that Interstate 90 is now closed between Highway 281 (Exit 310) and Interstate 29 (Exit 396) at Sioux Falls.

Veterans Affairs

POW/MIA Recognition
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Gov. Kristi Noem has proclaimed Friday, Sept. 20, 2019, as “POW/MIA Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who fought bravely for our freedoms.

Education

Community identity exhibit at Cultural Heritage Center to close on Sept. 15
Visitors to the Cultural Heritage Center Museum in Pierre have just a few more days to visit the exhibition “From Jackrabbits to Schmeckfest: The Many Faces of Community Identity in South Dakota.” The exhibit, featuring images, events, and places that help define community identity in South Dakota, closes on Sunday, Sept. 15.

Game, Fish and Parks

GFP News: Recreational Trails Receive Funding
Governor Kristi Noem has awarded Recreational Trails Program (RTP) funding to several cities, trail groups and state parks totaling $1,358,113. The federal assistance program provides up to 80 percent reimbursement for trail-related development and maintenance projects.

Tribal Relations

Dissertation Panel to be highlighted at the 2019 South Dakota Indian Education Summit
The Office of Indian Education will showcase the inaugural Dissertation Panel at the 2019 South Dakota Indian Education Summit, which will be held Sept. 22-24 at the Ramkota in Pierre.