Electricity prices in South Dakota have risen just 6.8% over the past four years, far below national increases. PUC leaders warn, however, that growth in large, power-intensive data centers could put pressure on future rates.
Dakota Wesleyan University will host its annual Christmas at Dakota Wesleyan concert on Dec. 12 at the Sherman Center, featuring performances from multiple university ensembles. The community event offers a full evening of seasonal music with limited seating available.
Christmas tree permits for the Black Hills National Forest are now available through Recreation.gov, offering families a convenient way to harvest their own holiday tree. Officials say the program also supports forest health by thinning overcrowded stands.
Two men from Florida are facing dozens of forgery charges in Codington County after law enforcement linked them to a multi-state credit card scam involving Walmart stores in Iowa, Nebraska, and South Dakota. Authorities say a traffic stop led to the discovery of more than 300 credit cards and multiple skimming devices.
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has created a 15-member advisory task force to review the state’s Open Meetings Laws and recommend potential legislative updates. The group will hold its first meeting Nov. 25 in Pierre.
U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds and Angus King are urging federal agencies to release the maximum number of supplemental H-2B visas in Fiscal Year 2026 to help small businesses fill seasonal workforce gaps. The request follows three consecutive years of similar federal action.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks officials say late fall is a critical time to check docks and boat lifts for zebra mussels, with new detections confirmed at Sheridan Reservoir. The discovery marks the second zebra mussel–positive waterbody in western South Dakota.
The award, presented by the American Football Coaches Association, recognizes coaches who have achieved exceptional success and impact throughout their careers. Pole will be celebrated at the 2026 AFCA Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, joining a prestigious list of past honorees.
School officials in South Dakota are raising alarms over proposed property tax reforms that could cut crucial school funding. Of 19 recommendations under consideration, six directly threaten resources for local schools, leaving districts like Sioux Falls preparing for potential budget shortfalls.
Nate Franzen, President of Ag Banking at First Dakota National Bank, noted that much of the region’s soybeans are shipped west by rail to China, making the Dakotas especially sensitive to international demand.