A state climatologist is cautiously optimistic about South Dakota’s drought conditions as summer approaches. Laura Edwards, with SDSU Extension, highlighted that recent rain and snow have come at a crucial time, allowing the soil to absorb moisture and retain it as the snow melts.
Governor Rhoden continued his “Open for Opportunity” tour on Thursday, visiting Sioux Falls to engage with POET Biofuels, the world’s largest producer of biofuels and a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
A local developer, Justin Thiesse, is facing challenges in building a $20 million senior living facility north of Lake Mitchell due to a lack of financial support from the Mitchell Area Development Corporation (MADC). Thiesse needs sewer infrastructure to move forward with the project, which is set to include a senior living center, apartments, a gas station, and other amenities, creating around 50 new jobs in Mitchell.
Governor Larry Rhoden is taking swift action to support firefighting efforts across South Dakota. On Friday, he issued an executive order enabling South Dakota National Guard resources, including Black Hawk helicopters, to assist in wildland firefighting efforts.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources has approved nearly $140 million in funding for clean water projects across the state. This investment, which includes grants and low-interest loans, will support drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater projects in various communities, including Aberdeen, Bison, Box Elder, Dell Rapids, Huron, and Mitchell.
Thousands of pounds of ground coffee have been recalled due to a labeling error, affecting hundreds of 12-ounce bags of Our Family Traverse City Cherry Decaf Light Roast Ground Coffee. The recall was initiated by the FDA on March 13th, 2025, after the product, which was mislabeled as decaffeinated, was found to contain caffeine.
Freeman museum debuting new exhibits
South Dakota’s legislature recently passed several election-related bills, but one specific bill has drawn significant opposition from a political organization that argues it undermines the rule of the people.
A new partnership between the South Dakota Corn Utilization Council and Kwik Star is set to promote the benefits of ethanol-blended fuels, specifically Unleaded 88, across South Dakota. As Kwik Star expands its presence in the state, the collaboration aims to raise awareness about the advantages of using ethanol fuel.
While states like California often dominate headlines for urban wildfire disasters, a new federal government report says communities in South Dakota—especially those near wildlands—are increasingly vulnerable.