The South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association is commending Governor Rhoden for signing House Bill 10-22, which mandates the proper labeling of lab-grown meat products. The bill requires the terms “cell-cultured” or “lab-grown” to appear on the product label, ensuring transparency for consumers. Eric Jennings of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association highlighted that this was a top priority during this year’s legislative session, as the association was concerned that consumers might unknowingly purchase lab-grown meat. The bill passed unanimously in both chambers of the South Dakota Legislature.
An unsettling event is unfolding again at Lake Byron, just north of Huron, where residents have been working to clean up thousands of dead snow geese washing up on shore. This marks the third consecutive year of this issue, but this time is by far the worst, with an estimated 20,000 birds already collected. The cause is believed to be a combination of the bird flu and a mild winter, which allowed the geese to remain in the area longer. Local authorities and residents are in the process of burying the dead birds on land owned by South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks.
Don’t miss the annual Ag Day event this Saturday, happening from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Washington Pavilion in Sioux Falls. With over 30 vendors showcasing the best of Midwest agriculture, this free event celebrates the importance of agriculture in the region.
South Dakota’s ongoing dry winter continues to pose a significant wildfire risk across the state. Officials are warning that the combination of dry conditions, low humidity, and strong winds is creating the perfect environment for wildfires. Fire crews have been actively battling multiple fires, particularly in the western regions. State officials are urging residents to avoid outdoor burning to help prevent further fire outbreaks and protect the community.
Governor Rhoden has confirmed that a wildfire on the Cheyenne River Reservation is now under control. While some hotspots remain, they are contained by burned areas, minimizing further risk. The fire has scorched approximately 38,000 acres, which is roughly the size of Rapid City. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, ensuring that any remaining threats are addressed swiftly.
Officials in Yankton County are urging locals to exercise caution amid high fire danger due to dry conditions and strong winds. With little moisture and high winds, even a small spark could lead to an uncontrollable grass fire. Although the county is not yet issuing an official burn ban, as the area remains under a moderate grass fire index, residents are still advised to refrain from any open burning over the next few days to reduce the risk of fire.
New spring weight restrictions are now in effect across South Dakota’s roadways, from March 10th to 14th, as part of efforts to protect infrastructure. The South Dakota Department of Transportation and local agencies have implemented these restrictions to prevent damage caused by thawing and melting snow, which softens roadbeds and makes them more vulnerable to wear. A map of the updated restrictions is available on the South Dakota Truck Info website at SD-Truck-Info.sd.gov.
Opponents of the carbon capture pipeline are celebrating with caution after Governor Rhoden signed a bill removing eminent domain for CO2 pipelines. The fight over this issue has been ongoing for nearly four years, and Spink County landowner Ed Fischbach says it all began with one simple question.
DOGE sets its sights on South Dakota as the Department of Government Efficiency moves forward with a significant reduction in federal offices across the state. At least 13 offices are slated for closure, including key locations in Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Watertown, Huron, Fort Thompson, Sisseton, and Yankton.
South Dakota farmers, including Stephanie Peterson, owner of Fruit of the Coop in Brandon, are facing uncertainty due to the freezing of USDA grant funds. Peterson was set to move forward with significant business plans after being approved for a $36,000 grant, but last week, the USDA notified her that the funds were frozen due to ongoing government spending cuts.