South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden reaffirmed his support for the state’s agricultural industry and defended the agricultural property tax system during the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce Ag Committee’s annual Farm Business Banquet. More than 1,000 farmers and ranchers attended the event.
The House Natural Resources Committee has unanimously advanced the bipartisan ePermit Act, legislation co-led by Rep. Dusty Johnson of South Dakota to modernize and streamline the federal permitting process. Supporters say the bill would move agencies toward a fully digital, more predictable review system.
Attorney General Marty Jackley is urging South Dakota shoppers to stay alert for holiday scams, including fake delivery messages and tampered gift cards. The Consumer Protection Division is offering guidance and support for anyone who believes they’ve been targeted.
The South Dakota Secretary of State’s Office has postponed the launch of the upgraded SDVotes system to early 2027, citing requests from county auditors for more time to train staff and test the platform. Officials say the system is fully built and secure, with the delay focused solely on user readiness.
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.
A Rapid City man has been sentenced to more than 24 years in federal prison for his role in a large-scale methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. Federal prosecutors say the case involved high-speed chases, firearms, and drug trafficking across Rapid City and the Pine Ridge reservation.
The Davison County Regional Railroad Authority has received approval for an additional $5.7 million in low-interest loan funding to complete major rail infrastructure at High Plains Processing south of Mitchell. The investment strengthens one of South Dakota’s largest value-added agriculture projects and expands rail capacity for regional producers.
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Creighton University’s latest Rural Mainstreet Index shows the regional farm economy improving modestly last month, though it continues to sit in negative territory. Low commodity prices and rising costs remain major challenges for producers.
With SNAP benefits delayed during the recent government shutdown, Team Buche Cares and Farmers Union Industries have launched statewide efforts to support families facing food insecurity. The groups are distributing 10,000 pounds of pork loin and have already provided $300,000 in SNAP replacement certificates.