What started as a routine drive into town quickly turned into something unforgettable along Lake Mitchell. A quiet morning was suddenly interrupted by the thunder of wings as thousands of snow geese took flight overhead, their calls echoing across the sky.
Davison County Commissioners tackled a wide range of issues this week, including a potential burn ban, facility upgrades, and a new jail contract, while also approving routine business. Meanwhile, local fourth graders are preparing for a hands-on agriculture event at the fairgrounds, and officials are raising concerns after state policy changes reduced meal availability for seniors, putting added strain on the community’s Adult Nutrition Program.
Wessington Springs High School students will soon get hands-on meat processing experience through a new agricultural lab equipped with commercial-style tools. School officials say the program will support career training and help supply beef for school lunches.
Firefighters continue battling the Qury Fire in the Black Hills near Custer as the wildfire has grown to 8,434 acres with 27% containment as of Tuesday, March 17. Officials say about 10 properties have been damaged and some evacuation orders remain in place.
Mitchell residents can set oversized items on the curb during Spring Cleanup Week, April 20-24, 2026, for city pickup on their regular garbage day. The city also will offer free landfill dumping for pickup-sized residential loads during the cleanup period.
Big Friend Little Friend has reached 101 active mentoring matches in Mitchell, connecting adult volunteers with local youth and families. Program leaders say the milestone highlights strong community support, but more mentors are still needed.
Gov. Larry Rhoden signed two property tax relief bills Thursday that supporters call the largest property tax cut in South Dakota history. The measures came on the final day of the 2026 regular legislative session, with lawmakers set to return March 30 for Veto Day.
A potential race is developing for the Mitchell School Board as incumbent Deb Everson seeks re-election and Vanessa Klock takes out a nominating petition. The filing deadline is March 24, with an election set for June 2 if needed.
