FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tues., Aug. 1, 2023
CONTACT: Katlyn Svendsen, Global Media & Public Relations Director, Travel South Dakota, 605-773-3301 

Forever 605

New stewardship campaign reminds citizens and visitors to travel respectfully.

PIERRE, S.D. – Travel South Dakota recently launched a new stewardship campaign to encourage visitors and state citizens to travel respectfully, preserve the state’s pristine outdoors, embrace the memorable experiences, shop locally, treat frontline employees with care, and explore all corners of the state.

“Forever 605 is about letting the wild be wild, not overcrowding destinations, and leaving nothing behind but your boot prints,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism.”

Travel South Dakota encourages all to take the “605 Pledge” to keep South Dakota a land of pristine rivers, clean trails, and natural beauty. The pledge encourages people to take "Leave No Trace” to the next level by striving to disperse visitors throughout all areas of the state while encouraging off-the-beaten-path experiences.

“We know that our state’s tourism offerings enhance the quality of life for South Dakotans and visitors,” Hagen continued. “By strengthening communities and taking good care of this place we love, our beautiful scenery and opportunities to create meaningful experiences can be enjoyed for generations to come.”

The pledge can be found online at Forever605.com. After signing the pledge, the user will be sent a Forever 605 sticker and entered for a chance to win additional prizes.

Travel South Dakota has produced a webinar and a resource page on their industry-focused website, SDVisit.com, on how South Dakota entities can engage with the Forever 605 program and share with their communities & visitors. For more information on how local South Dakota businesses can get involved, visit SDVisit.com/Forever-605.

The South Dakota Department of Tourism is comprised of Travel South Dakota and the South Dakota Arts Council. The Department is led by Secretary James D. Hagen.     

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Media Notes: For Forever 605 campaign material and related images, utilize this link. Assets credited to Travel South Dakota.