SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – In addition to being South Dakota’s newest state park, Good Earth State Park at Blood Run was recently recognized as the first America’s Great Outdoors (AGO) project to be completed in the Midwest region.

Michael Reynolds, Midwest regional director, National Park Service, made the official presentation earlier this month to state park staff.

“The Blood Run National Historic Landmark Project in South Dakota is designated a keystone conservation and outdoor recreation project under President Obama’s America’s Great Outdoors program,” said Reynolds. “We celebrate the partnerships and collaboration that resulted in this significant habitat protection.”

President Obama launched the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative in 2010 to develop a 21st century conservation and recreation agenda. The initiative encourages conservation solutions from the American people to protect their natural heritage and to strengthen the ties between both youth and families to nature and outdoor recreation.

Governor Daugaard selected the Blood Run National Historic Landmark project as one of South Dakota’s two projects for the initiative. The project was selected for its cultural significance and an increased threat by population expansion and development.

The project became a reality this past March, when Gov. Daugaard signed legislation to create Good Earth State Park at Blood Run.

South Dakota’s second project is the acquisition and preservation of the Dakota grasslands. To learn more about the America’s Great Outdoors initiative, visit www.doi.gov/americasgreatoutdoors.

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