DANR Announces Stakeholder Outreach for Surface Water Quality Standards
DANR Announces Stakeholder Outreach for Surface Water Quality Standards

Department of Health Reminds Families about the Importance of Childhood Immunizations
PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Health wants to remind families that August is National Immunization Awareness Month and with the back-to-school season fast approaching, childhood immunizations can help protect the health of children and youth now and in the future.

SDDOT to Hold Public Meeting for Current and Future Projects on S.D. Highway 22 in Hamlin County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will hold a public meeting open house on Monday, Aug. 29, 2022, at 6 p.m. to inform area residents about the current and future improvements for S.D. Highway 22 in Hamlin County.


Governor Noem Accepting Applications for Fall Interns
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem is now accepting applications for the Governor’s Office fall 2022 internship program.

Jerauld County Man Sentenced in First Degree Manslaughter Case
Attorney General Mark Vargo and Jerauld County States Attorney Dedrich Koch announce that Mitch LeRoy Caffee, Wessington Springs, 39, pled guilty to one count of first degree manslaughter, a Class C felony, and one count of Aggravated Assault, a Class 3 Felony and was sentenced today to life in the state penitentiary on the first degree manslaughter conviction and 15 years in the state penitentiary on the aggravated assault conviction, with the sentence to run concurrent.

Hanson County Fatal Crash
FARMER, S.D. – One person died and another person was injured in a one-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon northeast of Farmer.

Names Released In Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – A Hot Springs woman has been identified as the person who died last Thursday in a one-vehicle crash north of Aberdeen.

Phase One Complete on U.S. Highway 212 Construction Project in Watertown
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that the contractor, J & J Earthworks, Inc., will open remaining sections of phase one on U.S. Highway 212 to thru traffic west of 11th Street East on Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022. Local project detour signage will be removed after the reopening of this section of Highway 212 is complete.

Six Mile Road at S.D. Highway 42 (Arrowhead Parkway) Intersection to Open in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that Six Mile Road at the S.D. Highway 42 (Arrowhead Parkway) intersection will be opened to traffic from 26th Street to Madison Street beginning Thursday, Aug. 18, 2022.


Heirloom Recipe Contest at SD State Fair
Heirloom Recipe Contest at SD State Fair

Temporary Intersection Closures and Marion Road Reopening Scheduled for 41st Street DDI Project in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that temporary road closures are scheduled as part of the 41st Street Diverging Diamond (DDI) construction project in Sioux Falls.

2022 Sturgis Rally Final Vehicle Counts
Final vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, have been tallied.

ADA Curb, Ramp, and Sidewalk Upgrades to Continue on S.D. Highway 40 in Keystone
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says crews will begin ADA curb, ramp, and sidewalk upgrades on S.D. Highway 40 starting Monday, Aug. 22, 2022.

Leaders Recognized for their Service to South Dakota's Veterans
County and tribal veterans’ service officers (CTVSO) and staff from the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (SDDVA) were recognized for their dedication to serving veterans and veterans’ families at an awards program Monday, August 15, in Pierre.

Jeri Smith Receives 2022 SDDVA Outstanding Leader, Mentor, Advocate of the Year Award
Jeri Smith of Pierre has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Outstanding Leader, Mentor, Advocate of the Year. Smith was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, August 15, in Pierre.

Lee Borries Named Outstanding Veterans Service Officer of the Year
Lee Borries of Rapid City has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs “Outstanding Veterans Service Officer of the Year.” Borries was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, August 15, in Pierre.

Matt Pillar Receives 2022 SDDVA New Veteran Service Officer of the Year Award
Matt Pillar of Madison has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs New Veterans Service Officer of the Year. Pillar was recognized by his peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, August 15, in Pierre.

Shannon Phillips Receives 2022 SDDVA Outstanding Department Staffer of the Year Award
Shannon Phillips of Hartford has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Outstanding Department Staffer of the Year. Phillips was recognized by her peers at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, August 15, in Pierre.

Pierre Elks Lodge 1953 Receives SDDVA 2022 Partner of the Year Award
Pierre Elks Lodge 1953 has been named the 2022 South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Partner of the Year. Lodge 1953 was recognized at SDDVA’s annual benefit conference Monday, August 15, in Pierre.


Gov. Noem Releases Report from Department of Education on Critical Race Theory and Divisive Concepts
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem released a report from the Department of Education (DOE) detailing examples of Critical Race Theory and other divisive concepts in DOE policies, guidance, websites, trainings, content standards, or other materials.

Gov. Noem Announces Draft Social Studies Standards
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem released draft social studies standards for K-12 students in South Dakota.

South Dakota State Fair Announces The Band Perry to Play at 2022 State Fair
South Dakota State Fair Announces The Band Perry to Play at 2022 State Fair

S.D. Highway 273 Road Closure Scheduled for Box Culvert Repair Work in Lyman County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that a construction project to repair two box culverts on S.D. Highway 273 in Lyman County was recently awarded by the Transportation Commission. This construction project includes the repair of two reinforced box culverts.

SDDOT Receives Federal RAISE Grant for Reconstruction of U.S. Highway 12 in Corson County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) was recently awarded a $21.4 million Rebuilding America Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grant through the U.S. Department of Transportation. The RAISE Grant is designated for the regrading and reconstruction of approximately nine miles of U.S. Highway 12 in South Dakota between Morristown and Watauga in Corson County.

State Agencies Collaborate to Launch Broadband Service Provider Notification List
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) recently launched an initiative to increase awareness and cooperation between state government and broadband service providers.

Public Universities Prioritize Academic Affordability
PIERRE, S.D. – Public university students will be greeted with classroom saving as they prepare to head back to campus in the coming weeks. The South Dakota Board of Regents Institutions implemented First Day Access to enhance university affordability for students.


Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally, Sunday, Aug. 14, 2022 FINAL NUMBERS
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 06, 2022, to 6 a.m. Sunday August 14, 2022. FINAL NUMBERS


Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally, Saturday, Aug. 13, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Saturday August 13, 2022

Brown County Fatal Crash
ABERDEEN, S.D. – One person died and three others were injured in a one-vehicle crash Thursday north of Aberdeen.


Gov. Kristi Noem: Fast Bikes, Fresh Air, & Freedom
For more than 80 years, late summer has brought thousands of motorcycles to the Black Hills of South Dakota. Bikers come from across the country – and around the world – to participate in the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. They bring with them their money, supporting our local businesses and helping our state revenues. And they enjoy the beauty and freedom that South Dakota has to offer.

Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally, Friday, Aug. 12, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Friday August 12, 2022

Driver License Program Opens Sioux Falls Express Station
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s first-ever Driver License Express Station opened this week in Sioux Falls.

Interstate 90 Exit 37 Reconstruction Project to Continue Near Sturgis
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says the second phase of a four-phase project to reconstruct the exit 37 interchange on Interstate 90, near Sturgis, will begin Monday, Aug. 15, 2022.

2022 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Seven
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, are available and will be updated daily.

Vantage Park Named Certified Site
The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) announced on Thursday, Aug. 11, that Vantage Business Park in Huron has been named a Certified Site in the category of Heavy Industrial.


The South Dakota State Fair Presents First Dakota Football at the Fair
The South Dakota State Fair and First Dakota National Bank are pleased to announce Football at the Fair, a new addition to the 2022 South Dakota State Fair.

Highway Patrol Rally Tally Thursday, Aug. 11, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Thursday August 11, 2022

Madelyn Avenue Temporary Intersection Closure Scheduled for DDI Construction Project in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that on Friday, Aug. 12, 2022, the north side of the intersection at 41st St. and Madelyn Avenue will be temporarily closed for storm sewer work.

2022 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Six
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, are available and will be updated daily.

Work to Begin at the Intersection of Omaha Street and Cambell Street in Rapid City
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says work at the intersection of Omaha Street and Cambell Street in Rapid City is scheduled to begin on Monday, Aug. 15, 2022.


Gov. Noem and Colleagues Ask President Biden to Lift Vaccine Mandate on International Travel
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 16 of her fellow Republican governors sent a letter to President Joe Biden asking him to “end the requirement that all non-U.S. citizen travelers entering the United States be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.” You can find the letter here.

Seven students receive Hagen-Harvey scholarships
Seven students have received Richard Hagen-Minerva Harvey Memorial State scholarships. This scholarship program provides up to $6,000 over four years for study at a public or non-public accredited university, college, or technical college located in South Dakota to enrolled members of American Indian tribes.

Labor Department Awards $140,000 to Expand Apprenticeships
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) has awarded $140,000 to expand the number of Registered Apprenticeships Programs in South Dakota.

Highway Patrol Rally Tally, Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Wednesday August 10, 2022

Law Enforcement Seek Public Assistance in Locating Possible Suspect
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety, Highway Patrol, and other law enforcement agencies are asking for the public’s help in the Sioux Falls area in locating a male who fired a gun into the air Wednesday morning (today).

Water/wastewater assistance available in South Dakota
Assistance for South Dakota families whose water/wastewater service has been disconnected or who are at risk of losing access to water service may be available through the Department of Social Services (DSS).

2022 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Five
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, are available and will be updated daily.

Milling and Asphalt Paving to Begin on U.S. Highway 12 and S.D. Highway 20 in Mobridge Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that work will begin Monday, Aug. 15, 2022, on an asphalt resurfacing project planned for U.S. Highway 12 from two miles south of Selby to Mobridge and on S.D. Highway 20 from the junction with U.S. Highway 12 to two miles east of Trail City.


Grant funds seven out-of-school time programs
A total of seven 21st Century Community Learning Center grants have been awarded to provide funding for academic enrichment opportunities for students. This year’s grant recipients join 32 existing grant recipients.

First Dakota National Bank Contribution to the DEX
First Dakota National Bank Contribution to the DEX

Highway Patrol Rally Tally, Tuesday, Aug. 9, 2022.
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Tuesday August 09, 2022.

Artist application deadline coming Sept. 24
PIERRE – The South Dakota Arts Council invites artists in and near our state to apply to join our teaching artist roster to work in-residence throughout South Dakota communities. The deadline is Sept. 24.

2022 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Four
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, are available and will be updated daily.

U.S. Highway 18 Road Closure Planned Near Menno
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) advises travelers of an upcoming road closure on U.S. Highway 18 from the James River to the west edge of Menno beginning Wednesday, Aug. 17, 2022.

Local Road Closure Planned in Brookings as part of Interstate 29 Interchange Project
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that the contractors for the 20th Street Interchange project and the Brookings Municipal Utilities (BMU) watermain utility project will issue a joint closure at the intersection of 22nd Avenue and 20th Street South, beginning on Monday, Aug. 15, 2022.


Flags at Half-Staff at State Capitol in Honor of Circuit Court Judge Jon Flemmer
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff at the State Capitol from sunrise until sunset on Tuesday, Aug. 9, in honor of 5th Circuit Court Presiding Judge Jon Flemmer of Webster. He became a circuit court judge in 1999 and was the longest serving circuit judge in the state.

PUBLIC NOTICE OF HIGH RISK INMATE RELEASE
The South Dakota Department of Corrections is providing notification to law enforcement and the public about the pending release of a state prison inmate considered to be a high risk to reoffend.

Sing to Win at the South Dakota State Fair
Sing to Win at the South Dakota State Fair

Highway Patrol Rally Tally, Monday, Aug. 8, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Monday August 8, 2022.

Names Released In Jerauld County Fatal Crash
WOONSOCKET, S.D. – A Woonsocket, S.D., woman has been identified as the person who died early last Thursday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash southwest of Woonsocket.

2022 Sturgis Rally Vehicle Count - Through Day Three
Vehicle traffic counts from the South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) for vehicles entering Sturgis for the 82nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally Aug. 5-14, 2022, are available and will be updated daily.


Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Tally Sunday, Aug. 7, 2022
Highway Patrol Sturgis Rally Daily Information. Compiled from 6 a.m. Saturday August 6, 2022, to 6 a.m. Sunday August 7, 2022.


Gov. Kristi Noem: Starting the Conversation
Hope has power – it drives us to achieve incredible things that we never thought possible or endure difficulties that previous seemed insurmountable. Unfortunately, for the same reasons, hopelessness can hold tremendous power over a person’s life, too. Too often, that loss of hope leads to suicide, a suicide that is entirely preventable. Suicide is a growing public health issue in our country and in South Dakota, and it affects each of our lives in some way.

ATTORNEY GENERAL RELEASES DRAFT EXPLANATION FOR PROPOSED AMENDMENT TO THE SOUTH DAKOTA CONSTITUTION
South Dakota Attorney General Mark Vargo has released the following Attorney General’s ballot draft explanation for the November 2024 general election.

Names Released In Turner County Fatal Crash
CHANCELLOR, S.D. – A Sioux Falls man has been identified as the person who died Monday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Chancellor.

Jerauld County Fatal Crash
WOONSOCKET, S.D. – One person died and five others were injured in a two-vehicle crash Thursday afternoon southwest of Woonsocket.

Terry Avenue Temporary Intersection Closure Scheduled for 41st Street DDI Construction Project in Sioux Falls
On Monday, Aug. 8, 2022, the north side of the intersection at 41st Street and Terry Avenue will be temporarily closed for underground utility work. This work is expected to be completed by the end of the workday.

Culvert Work Scheduled on SD. Highway 15 East of Wilmot
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that culvert replacement at the intersection of S.D. Highway 15 and 473rd Avenue, approximately six miles east of Wilmot, will start on Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2022.

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of U.S. Army Private August E. Otto Jr.
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony this month to honor U.S. Army Private August E. Otto, Jr.


Gov. Noem & Colleagues Oppose Democrats’ Spending Bill
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem and 21 of her fellow Republican Governors issued the following joint statement opposing the Democrats’ Spending Bill:

Flags at Half-Staff in Honor of U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem ordered that flags be flown at half-staff statewide effective immediately until midnight tonight (Thursday) in honor of U.S. Rep. Jackie Walorski of Indiana who died Wednesday in a vehicle crash.

State prison inmate Jordan Ward dies
Jordan Ward, age 30, was found unresponsive in his cell at the South Dakota State Penitentiary overnight.

First National Bank Contribution to the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX Announced
The South Dakota State Fair is excited to announce that First National Bank has made a $250,000 contribution to the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX.

Lady A Cancels Tour…New Announcement Coming Soon for South Dakota State Fair
Lady A has cancelled the remainder of their 2022 tour, including their show at the South Dakota State Fair scheduled for Sunday, September 4.

Name Released In Lawrence County Fatal Crash
LEAD S.D. – A Wausau, WI man has been identified as the person who died early Sunday morning in a motorcycle crash west of Lead.

Resurfacing Work to Begin on S.D. Highway 53 in Tripp County
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says resurfacing work is scheduled to begin soon on S.D. Highway 53 in Tripp County. The construction project on Highway 53 extends from the U.S. Highway 18 junction southward for 16 miles.


First Two Human West Nile Virus Detections of 2022 Reported in Minnehaha and Spink Counties
Today, the South Dakota Department of Health confirmed South Dakota’s first two human West Nile virus (WNV) detections of the 2022 season, in residents of Minnehaha and Spink Counties.

August is Breastfeeding Awareness Month
Throughout the week ahead and continuing for the duration of the month of August, South Dakota joins the nation and world in celebrating and supporting World Breastfeeding Awareness Week (August 1-7) and National Breastfeeding Awareness Month.

August Tour De Yankton Jobs Event
The Department of Labor and Regulation (DLR) in partnership with Yankton Thrive and Riverfront Broadcasting will host its fifth Tour De Yankton Jobs Hiring Event on Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2022, from 3 to 5 p.m.

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for Development of State Freight Plan
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) is seeking public input into the development of the State’s Freight Plan. The Plan identifies freight contributions to the State’s economy, provides recommendations for strategic improvements, guides freight-related investments, and supports the vision and goals of the National Freight Network.


South Dakota Receives Presidential Disaster Declaration Approval For June Storm
PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Kristi Noem announced today that South Dakota has received a Presidential Disaster Declaration that allows the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to help South Dakota local governments in six counties statewide recover from public infrastructure damage sustained as a result of a tornado, severe storms, straight-line winds, flooding, and hail that occurred June 11-14, 2022.

Farm Credit Services of America Contribution to the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX Announced
Farm Credit Services of America Contribution to the DEX: Dakota Events CompleX Announced

Turner County Fatal Crash
CHANCELLOR, S.D. – One person died Monday night in a two-vehicle crash north of Chancellor.

Preparing for Back-to School Changes: August Mental Health Memo
Just a few short weeks and we will be back to school! Teachers, parents and caregivers are preparing for students to head back into the classroom and the help they provide will play an important role in the success of each student.

Child care listening sessions planned
The Department of Social Services (DSS) is planning several opportunities for child care providers, community members, and families to give their input on how one-time funding for South Dakota’s child care system is spent.


State prison inmate Kevin Brower dies
Kevin Brower, age 56, passed away at a Yankton hospital July 31.

Peterson Named New Highway Patrol Assistant Superintendent
PIERRE, S.D. – Lt. Joel Peterson, a 20-year veteran of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, has been named as the Patrol’s new assistant superintendent in charge of field operations.

Lawrence County Fatal Crash
LEAD S.D. – One person died early Sunday morning in a motorcycle crash west of Lead.

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Scheduled in the Yankton Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways in the Yankton area, beginning the week of Monday, Aug. 8, 2022.


Governor Kristi Noem: 50 Years of Title IX
Nostalgia can be bittersweet.

Attorney General, DCI Release Rapid City Police Department Officer Involved Shooting Summary
PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Attorney General Mark Vargo and the Division of Criminal Investigation Friday released the summary of the officer involved shooting of Shania Watkins, 32, of Rapid City by a Rapid City Police Department (RCPD) officer on May 31, 2022 in Rapid City. The summary found that the officer involved in the shooting was justified in using lethal force.

State Working to Dredge Capitol Lake to Improve Water Quality
The state Bureau of Administration (BOA), in consultation with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), is working to dredge Capitol Lake to improve water quality.

Name Released In Ziebach County Fatal Crash
BISON, S.D. – A 31-year-old man from Lemmon has been identified as the person who died early last Saturday in a one-vehicle crash east of Bison.

Striping Work Planned for 6th Street and 22nd Avenue Intersection in Brookings
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that the region striping crew will be installing thermoplastic pavement marking at the intersection of 6th Street and 22nd Avenue in Brookings during the evening hours of Monday, Aug. 1, 2022


New South Dakota’s Missing Persons Clearinghouse Website Released
An updated South Dakota Missing Persons Clearinghouse website is now operational according to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office.

BankWest Contribution to the DEX
BankWest Contribution to the DEX

DPS Announces August Sobriety Checkpoints
PIERRE, S.D. – Thirteen sobriety checkpoints in 11 different counties are planned for the month of August, according to the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.

Name Released In Edmunds County Fatal Crash
IPSWICH, S.D. – A 53-year-old Redfield man has been identified as the person who died Sunday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Ipswich.

Tuition assistance available at Southeast Technical College
South Dakotans can get help paying for courses in in-demand fields at Southeast Technical College through a program offered by the Department of Social Services (DSS).

Purple Heart Recognition Day
At the request of the South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs, Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed Sunday, August 7, 2022, as “Purple Heart Recognition Day,” calling on all South Dakotans to honor those men and women who are recipients of the Purple Heart Medal.

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of U.S. Army Sergeant James Haider
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony next month to honor U.S. Army Sergeant James Haider.


Gov. Noem and Republican Governors Call on President Biden to Defend Equal Opportunities for Girls and Women
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem led a coalition of 15 Republican Governors urging President Joe Biden to defend equal opportunities for girls and women. In a letter to President Biden, the governors challenge him to reject the rule and policy changes proposed by the U.S. Department of Education (DOE) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), which would completely reinterpret Title IX.

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Scheduled in Northwestern South Dakota
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says crews will begin chip seal and fog seal applications on U.S. Highway 12, S.D. Highway 73, S.D. Highway 168, and U.S. Highway 85 starting Monday, Aug. 1, 2022.


August State Historical Society “History Talks” examines “After Populism”
The upcoming monthly South Dakota State Historical Society history talks program will feature life in the Northern plains in the early twentieth century.

Deadlines Approaching for SD State Fair Open Class Entries
Deadlines Approaching for SD State Fair Open Class Entries

GFP/USFWS Collaboration Wins Award
PIERRE, S.D. - A collaborative project between the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) and the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) regarding prairie grouse population and distribution estimates have garnered the two agencies The Wildlife Society's "Wildlife Restoration Award".

Honoring importance of Native American foster and kinship families
Native American foster and kinship families play a vital role in the lives of native youth while their parents work through difficulties that make it unsafe to stay at home.

Chip Seal and Fog Seal Projects Planned in the Mitchell Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says chip seal and fog seal applications will be applied to several highways in the Mitchell area of the state beginning Thursday, July 28, 2022.

Progress Continues on John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge Project in Pierre/Ft. Pierre
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that significant progress continues on the John C. Waldron Memorial Bridge, which connects the cities of Pierre and Fort Pierre.

Signal Work Scheduled for U.S. Highway 12 and Melgaard Road in Aberdeen
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will begin signal work on U.S. Highway 12 and Melgaard Road on Tuesday, July 26, 2022.


DCI, State’s Attorney Charge Two Suspects In Pursuit, Officer Involved Shooting
South Dakota Attorney General Mark Vargo and Lake County State’s Attorney Wendy Kloeppner say the two suspects arrested July 14 in connection with a high-speed pursuit and officer involved shooting have now been indicted on four different counts, including two counts each of attempted first-degree murder.

New Historical Society Book Explores Left-Wing Farm Movements
The latest book published by the South Dakota Historical Society Press explores the activism of left-wing agricultural groups on the Great Plains.

The South Dakota State Fair Announces Agtegra’s Contribution to the DEX
The South Dakota State Fair Announces Agtegra’s Contribution to the DEX: Dakota Events Complex

Zebra Mussels Discovered in Enemy Swim Lake
Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) has confirmed the presence of zebra mussels in Enemy Swim Lake in Day County.

Edmunds County Fatal Crash
IPSWICH, S.D. – One person died Sunday afternoon in a one-vehicle crash south of Ipswich.

SDDOT Seeks Public Input for Interstate 29 (Exit 86-Renner/Crooks) Interchange Modification Study
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT), in collaboration with Minnehaha County, City of Crooks, City of Sioux Falls, Sioux Falls MPO, and the Federal Highway Administration, will hold a public meeting open house on Wednesday, July 27, 2022, from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Jefferson High School (1600 N. Marion Road in Sioux Falls) to inform area residents of the preliminary concepts for the Interstate 29 Exit 86 (Renner/Crooks) Interchange Modification Study.


Ziebach County Fatal Crash
BISON, S.D. – A 31-year-old male died early Saturday in a one-vehicle crash east of Bison.


Governor Kristi Noem: Cautiously Optimistic: South Dakota’s Finances and the Future
Earlier this week, the State of South Dakota closed the financial books for fiscal year 2022 with a record-breaking $115.5 million surplus. This historic surplus was a combination of revenues unexpectedly being $72.3 million above what was adopted by the legislature this past session and the general fund budget for state government operations having expenses $43.2 million less than budgeted.

Gov. Noem Appoints Mark Roby to Housing Board
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Kristi Noem appointed Mark Roby to the South Dakota Housing Development Authority’s Board of Commissioners. This appointment is effective immediately.

Historical Society Book Selected for Office of Indian Education Initiative
"Muskrat and Skunk/Sinkpe na Maka,” a bilingual Lakota-English illustrated children’s book published by the South Dakota Historical Society Press, has been selected as one of six BookMark Initiative recommended books by the South Dakota Office of Indian Education.

Names Released In Meade County Fatal Crash
SUMMERSET, S.D. – A Katy, Texas man has died as a result of injuries sustained in a three-vehicle crash on Thursday, July 14, 2022 in Summerset.

Traffic Signal Changes Scheduled at Lazelle Street and 8th Street in Sturgis
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) and the City of Sturgis have determined that the traffic signal at Lazelle Street and 8th Street is no longer necessary.

Pavement Marking Project Scheduled for U.S. Highway 12 in Aberdeen
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says a pavement marking project is scheduled to begin on U.S. Highway 12 from U.S. Highway 281 to Melgaard Road in Aberdeen on Monday, July 25, 2022.

Construction Project Planned for Interstate 90 at Hartford Exit
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) will begin construction work on Interstate 90 adjacent to the Hartford exit (387) beginning the week of Monday, July 25, 2022.

Asphalt Crack Sealing Projects Scheduled in the Yankton Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says asphalt crack sealing applications will be applied to several highways in the Yankton area beginning Monday, July 25, 2022.

SD Bridge to be Dedicated in Honor of U.S. Army SSG Daniel Cuka
The South Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs will be hosting a State Bridge Dedication Ceremony next month to honor U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Daniel Cuka.

SDDVA Secretary Whitlock’s July Column – New Laws, Services, and Programs Impacting Veterans
Each year the Governor, South Dakota agencies, legislators, constituents, and lobbyists review, debate, and consider hundreds of legislative issues. During the 2022 legislative session, over six hundred legislative bills and resolutions were introduced, but not all were passed.


SOUTH DAKOTA ARTS COUNCIL TO MEET JULY 29
OACOMA, S.D. – Members of the South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC), the advisory board of the state arts agency, will meet Friday, July 29 in Oacoma for the Council’s annual summer meeting.


Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Brandon
Emerald Ash Borer Confirmed in Brandon


Chad Mosteller Named Division of Criminal Investigation’s Interim Director
South Dakota Attorney General Mark Vargo has named Chad Mosteller as the interim Director of the Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) effective immediately.

Fall Deadwood Fund Grant Applications Available
Applications for the next round of the Deadwood Fund grant program through the South Dakota State Historical Society are now available.

Closure Planned at East 10th Street in Sioux Falls
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that East 10th Street will be closed to traffic from S.D. Highway 42 (Arrowhead Parkway) to North Tumble Creek Circle beginning Monday, July 25, 2022.

Pavement Projects Scheduled to Begin in Sioux Falls Area
The South Dakota Department of Transportation (SDDOT) says that work will begin today on various routes in and around Sioux Falls.

Joint Education Meeting Held in Pierre
PIERRE, S.D. – Yesterday, the state's leading voices in education gathered in Pierre for a joint meeting. The Board of Education Standards (BOES), the Board of Regents (BOR), and the Board of Technical Education (BOTE) were all represented in discussions focusing on the workforce needs of today and beyond.

High Education Affordability is Regents' Top Priority
PIERRE, S.D. – Keeping higher education affordable continues to be a top priority for the Board of Regents (BOR) and its institutions. During the BOR July meeting this week, board members outlined their budget priorities for the 2024 fiscal year, with a tuition freeze for public universities at the top of the list.