AGP Executive Report

Energy Costs: A new analysis says federal energy policy shifts could push U.S. households to pay about $6,500 more for energy by 2040, with South Dakota among the states hit hardest. Wildlife & Prairie Restoration: A Lakota nonprofit plans to return 50 bison to nearly 40,000 acres in Badlands National Park on Oct. 6, aiming to restore native prairie and improve soil and biodiversity. Public Lands & Drought Impacts: Custer State Park says drought is driving higher bison auction numbers this year, with about 612 bison expected to be sold due to limited winter forage. Local Fire Safety: Rapid City crews responded to two small grass fires on M-Hill Sunday morning; investigators believe they were human-caused, and trails stayed open. Community & Preparedness: Rapid City hosted the South Dakota Survival and Prepper Show, featuring first-aid training, preservation seminars, and communications classes. Tech & Health Debate: The FCC is considering faster wireless buildout rules, reopening fights over whether radiofrequency exposure standards need updating. Park Operations: Rapid City will close most park restrooms for winter starting Oct. 5, with some facilities staying open on reduced hours. Conservation Recognition: A South Dakota ranch couple behind 3Sixteen Ranch received an Outstanding Conservationist award, highlighting soil health and faith-rooted land care.

Prison & Public Safety: South Dakota has started moving women inmates from Pierre to a newly opened Rapid City women’s prison, built after overcrowding and unsafe conditions in older units. Wildlife & Drought: Custer State Park says drought has cut forage, so it expects to auction about 612 bison this fall—up from 435 last year—before winter limits herd size. Native Prairie Restoration: A Lakota nonprofit plans to return 50 bison to nearly 40,000 acres in Badlands National Park on Oct. 6, using new fencing and baseline soil and biodiversity studies to guide the reintroduction. Energy Costs & Health: A new analysis warns Trump-era federal energy policy changes could raise household energy spending nationwide by 2040, with knock-on impacts for jobs, air quality, and healthcare costs. Wireless & Health Standards: The FCC is pushing to speed wireless buildouts, reopening debate over whether radiofrequency exposure rules are keeping up with 5G expansion. Black Hills Fall Ecology: Wildlife officials say fall brings more animal movement and more road risk as animals search for food and prepare for winter.

Black Hills drought and wildlife management: Custer State Park says severe dry conditions mean a bigger-than-usual bison reduction ahead of winter, with about 612 bison expected for the November auction (up from 435 last year) as grass forage shrinks. Native prairie restoration: A Lakota nonprofit, Thunder Valley Community Development Corporation, plans to release 50 bison into nearly 40,000 acres in Badlands National Park on Oct. 6, after baseline studies and 26.5 miles of fencing to support soil health and biodiversity recovery. Missouri River governance: Gov. Larry Rhoden and other governors urged Congress to protect Missouri River resource management by removing Section 120 from the 2026 Water Resources Development Act, arguing it would require unanimous approval for diversions and even studies. AI and the environment: U.S. Sen. Mike Rounds met with Anthropic leaders at South Dakota Mines, discussing AI’s risks and opportunities, including impacts on the environment and healthcare. Road safety for wildlife: South Dakota officials warn that deer-vehicle crashes spike in October and November during migration and mating, urging drivers to slow down and stay alert at dawn and dusk. Local conservation spotlight: 3Sixteen Ranch owners Lee and Tasha Wood were recognized as 2026 Outstanding Conservationists, highlighting soil health and faith-driven land stewardship. Community food resilience: Rapid City’s Sustainability Committee and Rotary host a hands-on apple-based canning class Oct. 3, part of a fall preservation series.

Conservation on the ground: 3Sixteen Ranch owners Lee and Tasha Wood were named 2026 Outstanding Conservationists by the Morrison Soil & Water Conservation District, crediting faith-led stewardship and soil health practices that support healthy food and livestock. Native prairie restoration: A Lakota nonprofit plans to return 50 bison to nearly 40,000 acres in Badlands National Park’s Oonak̄ijiŋ “Stronghold” on Oct. 6, using fencing and baseline studies to help restore biodiversity after past grazing. Drought reshapes wildlife management: Custer State Park says severe drought has cut forage, so it’s increasing the number of bison sold at the November auction to about 612 (up from 435 last year) and lowering the herd for winter. Missouri River protections: Gov. Larry Rhoden and other governors urged Congress to remove Section 120 from the 2026 Water Resources Development Act, arguing it would require unanimous approval for certain Missouri River diversions and even studies. Wildlife & roads: South Dakota officials warn that deer-vehicle collisions spike in October and November as animals migrate and mate, urging drivers to slow down and stay alert at dawn and dusk. Farm-to-School push: South Dakota producers and schools are gearing up for October’s Farm to School Month, highlighting local purchasing, school gardens, and hands-on food education. Energy costs concern: A new analysis projects South Dakota households could face about $9,000 more in cumulative energy costs through 2040 due to federal policy changes affecting clean energy and vehicle incentives.

Missouri River Protection: Gov. Larry Rhoden and other governors urged Congress to remove Section 120 from the 2026 Water Resources Development Act, warning it would restrict Missouri River water management and even require unanimous, multi-state approval for certain diversions or studies. Wildlife & Roads: South Dakota drivers are being warned about deer collisions as migration and mating season ramp up, with October and November flagged as the deadliest months. Drought Impacts on Wildlife: Custer State Park says drought has cut its bison herd heading into winter, raising the number of animals expected for the November auction as managers lower the herd to match forage. Black Hills Fall Ecology: Spearfish Canyon hit peak fall color, while local wildlife experts say autumn shifts animal movement, feeding, and breeding—raising the odds of human-wildlife encounters. Local Food & Sustainability: October’s “Farm to School” push highlights how South Dakota schools and producers can boost local purchasing, student nutrition, and farm income. Community Learning: Rapid City is hosting a hands-on canning and preservation class, part of a broader fall series aimed at practical food safety and waste reduction.

Dam Safety: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is launching a multi-year safety study for South Dakota’s Oahe Dam after upgrading its internal rating to “very high risk,” saying there’s no active emergency but more extreme-weather scenarios could raise reservoir levels beyond estimates. Energy Costs: A nonpartisan think tank projects South Dakotans could pay about $9,000 more for energy through 2040 due to federal policy shifts affecting electricity and transportation fuel demand. Fuel Prices: Across the U.S., states are trying to curb diesel and gasoline prices tied to global supply disruptions, including moves that could expand use of red-dyed diesel for off-road needs. Wildlife & Climate Research: A University of Wyoming review flags a gap in livestock methane studies—few look at how grazing cattle emissions interact with soil carbon sequestration. Local Water & Weather: Rapid City is bracing for lower Rapid Creek flows this winter, while the region’s recent rain patterns are already reshaping harvest timing and drought conditions. Public Safety: Lakota Tech officials say there’s no ongoing threat after a reported firearm incident on campus; no weapon was found.

Energy Costs: A nonpartisan think tank projects South Dakota households could pay about $9,000 more for energy through 2040 as federal policy shifts increase demand for natural gas and gasoline. Dam Safety: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers upgraded the Oahe Dam’s internal rating to “very high risk,” launching a multi-year safety study while stressing there’s no active emergency. Water & Weather: Sioux Falls saw 5.79 inches of rain in September—well above normal, but not a record—while the broader region continues to swing between wet spells and harvest disruption. Fuel Prices: States are moving to curb diesel and gasoline prices, including steps that could expand use of red-dyed diesel and other regulatory relief. Wildlife & Roads: State Farm reports fewer animal-collision claims nationwide, with deer still driving most incidents—an issue for rural drivers. Community & Climate Resilience: Rapid City’s water planning remains in focus as Pactola stays around 70% full but winter flows are already being pulled back. Renewables: Willmar’s wind turbine program is fully decommissioned, with land restored after maintenance challenges and equipment failures.

Water & Wildlife: The Bureau of Reclamation will cut Pactola Reservoir releases nearly in half this winter, dropping flows from 30 to 15 cubic feet per second to conserve water while protecting Rapid Creek’s wild trout during spawning. Energy Infrastructure: A proposed 765-kilovolt transmission line could become the biggest power project in eastern South Dakota, turning the region into a bridge between major grid systems and raising big questions about land use and what comes next. Outdoor & Wildlife Management: South Dakota’s pheasant outlook is optimistic heading into the Oct. 17 opener, with Game, Fish & Parks pointing to recent mild winters and strong habitat conditions. Climate & Weather: A new drought update shows much of the U.S. still dealing with abnormal dryness, while the Plains and Southwest see shifting rain patterns tied to tropical systems. Local Environment & Community: Rapid City is also weighing an AI policy for city staff, as the city looks for efficiency while setting guardrails. Health & Research: NIH funding will support a statewide clinical research partnership in South Dakota, aiming to strengthen prevention and care through local collaboration.

Water & Wildlife: Rapid City will see lower Rapid Creek flows this winter as the Bureau of Reclamation cuts Pactola Reservoir releases nearly in half, dropping from 30 to 15 cubic feet per second to protect wild trout during spawning while officials cite low inflows and a weak snowpack outlook. Energy & Land Use: A power boom in eastern South Dakota is raising big questions about what comes next, as a proposed first-ever 765-kilovolt transmission line could reshape the region’s grid and expand corridors between major power systems. Weather & Flood Risk: Tropical moisture is soaking parts of the central U.S., with forecasters tracking another hurricane off Mexico and reporting flooding impacts from New Mexico into the Plains—another reminder that wet swings can hit fast. Community Resilience: Rapid City’s semi-annual Community Connect gathered dozens of local services under one roof, offering free clothing, household items, showers, and winter gear help ahead of colder weather. Public Safety & Waste: Sioux Falls is urging lithium-ion battery safety during Fire Prevention Week, while Scottsbluff’s Langer Industrial is expanding recycling capacity with a new shredder that can process metal and tires together. Wildlife & Outdoor Culture: South Dakota’s upland pheasant season is approaching, with Game, Fish and Parks pointing to strong habitat conditions and promising bird numbers after mild winters.

Water & Weather: Unseasonably wet conditions are reshaping South Dakota’s fall—harvest is stalled by persistent rain, and Gov. Larry Rhoden signed an executive order easing diesel-cost pressure for farmers while allowing extra hauling weight to reduce trips. Black Hills Wildlife & Drought: Custer State Park is auctioning off more bison than usual—about 612—citing long-running drought impacts that limit winter grazing capacity. Bird Flu Watch: Avian influenza is resurging in the region, with South Dakota reporting commercial flocks affected as the virus returns alongside fall migration. Water Infrastructure: Sioux Falls crews are repairing a water main on South Cliff Avenue, triggering a short-term lane closure. State Cybersecurity: Gov. Rhoden proclaimed October Cybersecurity Awareness Month, urging South Dakotans to “make it harder” for attackers with everyday safe habits. Local Agriculture & Education: South Dakota Farmers Union hired Ashley Stegeman as an Education Specialist, while Brookings’ Boys & Girls Club launched “Prairie Sparks,” a free after-school reading, math and science program for early learners.

Harvest Weather Watch: South Dakota farmers are stuck waiting on late-season rain to ease, with reports of widespread overcast conditions and totals that can reach several inches—keeping combines out of the field and raising worries about wet beans and grain loss. Diesel Relief for Farmers: Gov. Larry Rhoden signed an executive order letting farmers haul crops and livestock at 10% over weight limits and pausing a $25 overweight permit, with the state monitoring diesel supplies in case dyed fuel runs short. Water Policy Fight: Western governors, including South Dakota’s, pushed back on a federal Missouri River proposal that would require unanimous approval from basin-state governors for diversions or exports outside the basin. Black Hills Road Impacts: SDDOT will run biannual tunnel inspections Oct. 5-7, bringing closures and detours on Iron Mountain Road and Needles Highway. Wildlife Conservation Spotlight: The U.S. Federal Duck Stamp art contest named a South Dakota artist (Madison Grimm of Wallace) as runner-up, with stamp sales supporting wetland habitat conservation. Regenerative Farming Push: A new regional study highlights regenerative practices as potentially profitable while increasing soil carbon and supporting biodiversity.

Black Hills Roads: SDDOT will close multiple Black Hills tunnels for biannual inspections Oct. 5–7, including Iron Mountain Road (Doane Robinson, C.C. Gideon, Scovel Johnson) and Needles Highway (Needles Eye, Iron Creek, plus Hood Tunnel delays), with a Keystone detour at Miner’s Gateway Tunnel. Local Construction: Another SDDOT project will shut down U.S. Highway 14A near the Broken Boot Gold Mine southwest of Deadwood from Oct. 9 at 10 p.m. to Oct. 12 at 6 a.m. for pipe installation, followed by daytime single-lane paving. Climate-Smart Farming: A new Plains-focused study says regenerative practices like cover crops can match typical yields while boosting soil carbon and biodiversity, with researchers reporting higher carbon capture on participating farms. Missouri River Water Fight: Governors including South Dakota’s Larry Rhoden oppose a federal proposal that would require unanimous basin-state approval to divert or export Missouri River water outside the basin. Wildlife & Habitat: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reviewing whether the plains spotted skunk should be listed under the Endangered Species Act as sightings decline in parts of the Great Plains. Community Support: Rapid City’s Community Connect returns Tuesday with free clothing, household items, showers, haircuts, and lunch for people who need help.

Missouri River Water Fight: South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden joined a coalition of governors opposing a federal proposal that would require unanimous basin-state approval before Missouri River water could be diverted or exported outside the region—arguing states must retain control for drinking water, irrigation, and drought emergencies. Wildlife & Habitat: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has started a 12-month review on whether the plains spotted skunk should be listed under the Endangered Species Act as sightings become harder to find in parts of the Great Plains. Weather & Preparedness: A forecast update warns of more rain moving through the region, with heavier totals expected farther south, plus earlier fog and storm chances—another reminder to plan for wet, changeable fall conditions. Community & Environment-Adjacent: Rapid City park restrooms will close for winter starting Oct. 5, with limited options and portable units continuing—small logistics that affect how people use public green spaces. Local Agriculture: USDA crop progress shows corn and soybeans holding “good to excellent” ratings overall, with South Dakota’s corn condition slightly improving week to week.

Water Policy Fight: South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden joined a multi-state letter opposing a House provision that would restrict states’ ability to divert or export Missouri River water without unanimous governor approval—arguing states’ rights to use the river for drinking, irrigation, industry, and drought emergencies are established in law. Wildlife & Public Lands: Custer State Park’s 61st annual Buffalo Roundup drew more than 20,000 visitors as riders corralled about 1,500 bison for sorting, tagging, and health checks—highlighting ongoing herd management and the park’s role in South Dakota’s natural heritage. Local Parks & Access: Rapid City plans to close most park restrooms for winter starting Oct. 5, with limited late-season openings and year-round portable options. Roads & Construction: Keystone’s U.S. Highway 16A will close at S.D. Highway 40 for a bridge replacement starting Oct. 5, with detours and a projected reopening by April 2027. Weather Watch: Monday’s forecast calls for fog and on-and-off showers/storms, with gusty winds possible across western South Dakota. Habitat Funding Gap: South Dakota’s habitat conservation license plates are underperforming because many drivers skip the optional decal purchase, leaving hundreds of thousands in potential wildlife habitat funding uncollected.

Wildfire Readiness: Rapid City fire officials say the Lookout Fire is contained, but drought-stressed fuels and wind-driven conditions still put the area near the country’s wildfire “90th percentile,” urging fall preparedness. Water & Habitat Funding: South Dakota’s habitat conservation license plates aren’t raising as much as they could because many drivers skip the optional decal purchase—leaving about $415,000 in potential habitat funding on the table. River Restoration: Sioux Falls held a River Revival fundraiser dedicated to protecting and restoring the Big Sioux River, backing water-quality work, restoration, education, advocacy, and cleanup. Agriculture & Weather: A USDA climate hub director warns repeated wet weather could delay harvest across the Corn Belt corridor stretching from eastern Nebraska through southeast South Dakota, with impacts lasting weeks to months. Local Food Resilience: Rapid City’s Sustainability Committee is hosting an applesauce canning class to teach safe home food preservation. Community & Outdoors: Custer State Park’s 61st Buffalo Roundup drew more than 20,000 tourists to see the park’s 1,500 bison on the Wildlife Loop.

Wildfire Preparedness: Rapid City fire officials say the Lookout Fire was contained, but the conditions that drive fast, wind-driven burns remain—especially with South Dakota in a second year of drought. Habitat Funding Gap: South Dakota’s habitat conservation license plates aren’t raising as much as they could because many drivers skip the optional decal purchase, leaving roughly $415,000 in potential habitat dollars on the table. River Restoration: Sioux Falls’ River Revival fundraiser raised support for Friends of the Big Sioux River’s water quality work, restoration, education, and cleanup. Farm Weather Impacts: A USDA climate director warns repeated rainfall could delay harvest for weeks to months across the Corn Belt corridor that includes eastern Nebraska through southeast South Dakota. Community Sustainability: Rapid City’s Sustainability Committee is hosting an applesauce canning class to teach safe food preservation. Bison Tourism: Custer State Park’s 61st Buffalo Roundup drew more than 20,000 visitors to the Wildlife Loop, signaling a strong fall shoulder season. Local Safety/Infrastructure: SDDOT plans a pedestrian crossing and traffic shift change in Pierre’s Euclid reconstruction project as construction continues.