AGP Executive Report

Extreme Heat & Grid Strain: A heat dome kept tens of millions under extreme heat warnings, with Rapid City hitting 112°F and setting records, while the U.S. Department of Energy authorized emergency backup power for a 17-state region to reduce blackout risk. Wildlife & Waterfowl Policy: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service opened a short comment period on wetland easements in the Prairie Pothole Region, drawing concern from conservation groups that long-standing protections could change. Mining & Public Lands: The Black Hills National Forest is seeking public input on a proposed rare earth mine near Sundance, Wyoming, as federal officials prepare an environmental impact statement. Fire Risk: Stage 2 fire restrictions took effect across the Black Hills National Forest, tightening rules on campfires, smoking, and open flames. Drought & Water Use: Fort Pierre remains under mandatory water restrictions through Sept. 30 as drought strains the regional supply. Local Resilience: Northshore Drive reconstruction in North Sioux City reached about 50% completion after McCook Lake flooding, with a target reopening for the school year. Education & Environment: Gov. Larry Rhoden urged federal clarification so homeschool and microschool students can access a school choice tax credit without being blocked by how states classify learning environments. Statewide Climate Context: South Dakota’s ranking in U.S. News & World Report’s Best States jumped to No. 2 overall, with “natural environment” still a key category to watch.

Extreme Heat & Grid Reliability: The U.S. Department of Energy ordered emergency backup power for 17 states, including South Dakota, to reduce blackout risk as a heat dome pushes demand to dangerous levels. Drought & Water Supply: Fort Pierre remains under mandatory water restrictions through Sept. 30 as the West River/Lyman-Jones system runs at maximum capacity. Wildfire Risk: Black Hills National Forest tightened to Stage 2 fire restrictions, banning campfires, charcoal grills, smoking outside enclosed vehicles, and other ignition sources through Dec. 27, 2026. Storm Damage & Federal Help: Gov. Larry Rhoden requested a presidential disaster declaration for eight counties and two reservations after a mini-derecho, tornado, and historic windstorm caused about $4.56 million in public damage. Pollution & Wildlife Health: A new Dakota State University study is surveying microplastics in South Dakota’s lakes, rivers, and streams—an early look at what’s in the water and where it’s coming from. Habitat & Community Stewardship: A pollinator plot west of Lions Park is taking hold as a no-mow area, with ongoing weed control to help native flowers establish. Public Lands Night Sky: Badlands National Park earned International Dark Sky Park status, highlighting South Dakota’s push to protect dark skies. Local Conservation Program: South Dakota is taking registrations for prairie dog control assistance, with eligibility tied to colony size and proximity to public land.

School Libraries: South Dakota’s Department of Education and the State Library recognized 16 school library programs and professionals with 2026-2029 SATL awards, highlighting libraries as key to student growth. Storm Recovery: Gov. Larry Rhoden asked for a presidential major disaster declaration after late-June/early-July storms, including a mini-derecho and tornado, with damage to public property estimated at about $4.56 million across eight counties and two reservations. Wildfire Risk: The Black Hills moved up to Stage 2 fire restrictions as extreme heat and very dry fuels raise grassland and forest fire danger, tightening rules on open burning and other ignition sources. Heat + Grid Reliability: The U.S. Department of Energy authorized the Southwest Power Pool to activate backup power resources across 17 states, including South Dakota, to reduce blackout risk during the ongoing heat wave. Night Sky Conservation: Badlands National Park earned International Dark Sky Park status, boosting South Dakota’s stargazing profile while emphasizing responsible lighting and long-term stewardship. Data Centers + Land Use: Yankton County approved a six-month moratorium on large data center projects, reflecting local concerns about utilities, environmental impacts, and community control.

Extreme Heat & Grid Strain: Rapid City hit historic highs (112°F) as a heat dome pushed tens of millions under warnings, driving record-breaking temperatures and raising the risk of power failures; the U.S. Energy Department authorized Southwest Power Pool to dispatch idle backup generation to prevent heat-wave blackouts across 17 states. Severe Storms in the Sioux Empire: Saturday’s straight-line winds topped 90 mph in parts of eastern South Dakota, snapping trees, damaging roofs and fences, and knocking out power, with more storm chances possible as heat and humidity linger. Wildfire Readiness in the Black Hills: Stage 2 fire restrictions begin Monday on Black Hills National Forest lands, banning campfires and other ignition sources as critical fire weather ramps up; South Dakota Mines students are also helping with wildfire forecasting and training. Drinking Water Lithium Exposure: A new study found lithium in tap water across many Tribal communities, with most samples above a federal screening level, linking everyday water to long-term exposure concerns. Local Climate Impacts & Adaptation: Yankton received a heat advisory through Monday night as heat indexes climbed above 100°F, while Rapid City continues to see “historic heat” and communities prepare for the health risks.

Heat Dome Impacts: A second straight day of extreme heat is baking the central U.S., with at least 40 million people under warnings and heat indexes well above 100°F; Rapid City hit 112°F Saturday, and NWS says “dangerous heat” with rising heat indexes continues into Sunday evening. Severe Storms & Wind Damage: Eastern South Dakota saw damaging thunderstorms Saturday, including straight-line winds up to 90 mph near Sioux Falls and widespread tree and fence damage; more storms are possible Sunday night with a watch indicating damaging gusts and an isolated hail risk. Wildfire Preparedness: Black Hills National Forest moves to Stage 2 fire restrictions starting Monday (campfires and charcoal grills prohibited), as Red Flag-style fire weather and dry, hot conditions raise risk. Local Air Monitoring: A South Dakota Mines intern is helping forecast regional air quality from the South Dakota Discovery Center as wildfire smoke concerns remain in the broader region. Community Resilience: Sioux Falls residents are cleaning up after Saturday’s storms, with city branch drop-off sites open, while Gov. Larry Rhoden weighs state assistance for damaged areas. Education & Infrastructure: Wounded Knee District School on the Pine Ridge Reservation is getting major campus upgrades, including water/sewer improvements and new LEED Silver-certified buildings.

Extreme Heat & Storm Impacts: The NWS extended and expanded extreme heat warnings across much of South Dakota, with heat indexes pushing into the 100s and storms possible Sunday night—conditions that also left thousands without power after Saturday’s destructive weather. Record-Setting Temperatures: Rapid City and other parts of KOTA Territory shattered daily and all-time highs as triple-digit heat held steady into the start of the workweek. Wildfire Risk & Restrictions: With fire danger climbing, Black Hills National Forest Stage 2 fire restrictions begin Monday, banning campfires and grills and limiting smoking and other ignition sources. Black Hills Fire Weather Forecasting: South Dakota Mines student Gavin Bird is interning with South Dakota Wildland Fire, learning how weather forecasts guide response and prescribed burn planning as snow depth declines. Water & Health Watch: A new study finds lithium is widespread in household drinking water across Western Tribal communities, including areas tied to North Dakota/South Dakota screening levels. Community Environment Notes: Rapid City opened a permanent 911 Cell Phone Bank drop-off at City Hall, and the city is recruiting high school students for its sustainability committee.

Severe Weather & Heat: Sioux Falls residents feared a tornado during a severe thunderstorm warning, with NWS noting damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph—no tornado confirmation reported—while the broader region braces for more storms and oppressive heat. Record Temperatures: Rapid City shattered local records, hitting 110°F downtown and 112°F at the airport, with triple-digit heat expected to linger into Monday. Wildfire Readiness: Black Hills National Forest moves to Stage 2 fire restrictions Monday (campfires and charcoal grills banned, smoking limited), as crews warn of critical fire weather; a South Dakota Mines student is also interning with Wildland Fire to help forecast wildfire conditions. Public Safety in the Outdoors: Hikers were rescued from Black Elk Peak after a broken leg, with rescuers citing remote terrain and rising temperatures. Water & Health Concerns: A new study finds lithium is widespread in household drinking water across western Tribal communities, linking tap water to long-term lithium levels in the body. Dark Skies: Badlands National Park earned International Dark Sky Park status, boosting South Dakota’s stargazing appeal while highlighting lighting stewardship. Community Resilience: Rapid City made its 911 Cell Phone Bank drop-off permanent at City Hall, and Sioux Falls announced upcoming road closures tied to storm drainage and watermain repairs.

Extreme Heat & Power Strain: A persistent heat pattern is gripping the central U.S., with Rapid City forecast near record highs around 105°F and record-breaking days/overnight temperatures possible across the region—conditions that can spike electricity demand and raise risks for people, animals, and crops. Wildfire Preparedness: Black Hills National Forest will move to Stage 2 fire restrictions at 12:01 a.m. Monday, July 27, banning campfires and charcoal grills (with limited gas-stove exceptions) as critical fire weather ramps up. Local Heat Alerts: The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for southeastern South Dakota, urging residents to limit outdoor strain and watch for heat illness. Dark Skies Win: Badlands National Park earned International Dark Sky Park status, boosting South Dakota’s stargazing reputation and supporting responsible lighting stewardship. Water & Health Watch: A new study finds lithium in household drinking water is a widespread exposure source across Western Tribal communities, including areas tied to South Dakota, with tap water linked to urinary lithium levels. Rangeland Resilience: SDSU Extension is planning woody encroachment and soil health education for ranchers facing drought-driven grazing pressure, including field tours and training this fall.

Drinking Water & Lithium: A new Columbia University study finds lithium in household tap water is a widespread, persistent exposure across Western U.S. Tribal communities, with tap-water levels often exceeding a U.S. Geological Survey screening level in Arizona and in North Dakota/South Dakota, and household water explaining a major share of differences in people’s urinary lithium. Wildfire Risk in the Black Hills: Black Hills National Forest is moving into Stage 2 fire restrictions starting 12:01 a.m. Monday, July 27—banning campfires and charcoal grills, limiting smoking, and restricting open flames and off-trail vehicle use. Extreme Heat Across South Dakota: A heat advisory covers southeastern South Dakota Saturday (noon–8 p.m.), with temps near 100 and heat index values around 102, while forecasts warn of dangerous heat building across the Plains. Local Sustainability for Youth: Rapid City is recruiting high school students for a one-year sustainability committee term, focused on conserving resources and advising city sustainability efforts. Data Centers & Energy Pressure: Meta has pulled out of RE100 as it leans more on natural gas to power AI data centers, adding to the broader debate over data-center impacts on energy and communities. Rangeland Management: SDSU Extension is offering woody encroachment field tours and related events to help ranchers manage cedar and protect grasslands amid drought-related grazing pressure.

Dark Skies for Stargazing: A new national ranking puts South Dakota No. 1 for stargazing, citing large areas with very dark skies and low cloud cover. Extreme Heat & Public Safety: First Alert Weather Days are set for Saturday and Sunday as triple-digit heat returns across western and central South Dakota, with advisories urging hydration and cooling plans. Wildfire Risk in the Black Hills: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions begin July 27 on Black Hills National Forest lands, banning most open flames and other fire-related activities through late December. Drought Watch: The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows drought expanding and intensifying across parts of the Plains, with hot, dry conditions stressing rangeland and soil moisture. Missouri River Fishing Survey: South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is running its annual seine survey on Lake Francis Case to track baitfish and young gamefish—key for keeping walleye fishing strong. Local Recycling Updates: Rapid City’s remote yard waste/recycling/cardboard drop-off sites will temporarily close for construction and a baseball tournament, with an alternate site staying open. Habitat Fundraiser: The Second Century Habitat Fund is holding a raffle to support wildlife habitat restoration across South Dakota. Data Center Cost Fight: Congress and the White House push a Ratepayer Protection Act and expand a pledge aimed at stopping data-center grid upgrade costs from landing on utility customers. Environmental Health & Community Research: Avera Research Institute’s mobile unit will stop in South Dakota to expand access to studies, including work tied to environmental influences on child health.

Wildfire risk in the Black Hills: Stage 2 Fire Restrictions kick in on Black Hills National Forest lands starting 12:01 a.m. July 27, banning campfires and other open-flame activities (with limited gas-device exceptions) through Dec. 27 unless lifted early. Extreme heat alert: First Alert Weather Days are in effect for Saturday and Sunday as triple digits return across KOTA Territory, with Rapid City in the mid-100s and parts of the Plains near 108. Local recycling access: Two Rapid City remote drop-off sites will close temporarily for construction and a baseball tournament, with the 1117 Nickel St. site staying open. Drought watch: A new U.S. Drought Monitor update shows drought expanding in parts of the central and northern Plains while some southern areas improve after rainfall. Rural broadband push: Sen. Thune’s rural broadband bill cleared committee, aiming to streamline federal permitting and keep applications within a 270-day processing deadline. Agriculture biosecurity: South Dakota coverage highlights why biosecurity audits must focus on real on-farm execution, not just checklists.

Drought & Heat Watch: The latest U.S. Drought Monitor update shows drought expanding across the central and northern Plains as hot, dry conditions stress rangeland, while parts of the South saw improvement after heavy rain and flash flooding. Extreme Heat Risk: Forecasters warn a dangerous heat wave could push heat index values into the 105–115 range across parts of South Dakota and the Midwest this weekend, raising heat illness risks. Local Transportation Planning: SDDOT is holding public open houses Aug. 3 for the Ethan and Dimock master transportation plan preliminary recommendations, inviting residents to weigh in on roads, sidewalks, and related infrastructure. Broadband & Community Growth: Bluepeak says it’s speeding fiber rollout using Harmonic tools, including SeaStar nodes designed to extend high-speed service into lower-density apartment buildings. Waste & Landfill Capacity: Minnehaha County approved a conditional permit for expansion of the Sioux Falls Regional Landfill, adding long-term capacity. Wildlife Health: South Dakota officials say there’s no immediate concern about the new world screwworm reaching the state, citing existing containment and inspection requirements.

Heat & Smoke Watch: Extreme heat is back for the weekend, with Rapid City forecast around 105°F Saturday and 103°F Sunday, raising risks for heat illness; meanwhile, wildfire smoke from Canada is continuing to affect air quality across the U.S., including South Dakota. Drought & Rain Deficits: Southeastern South Dakota remains dry after a wet start to July, with several communities still well below normal rainfall for the month and year. Local Landfill Expansion: Minnehaha County approved a Sioux Falls Regional Landfill expansion permit for 73.5 acres, extending capacity for decades and keeping the landfill on track through about 2100. Solar Power Debate: A new eastern South Dakota solar farm is moving ahead on former farmland, but neighbors are raising concerns about land impacts and property values—another reminder of the state’s “love-hate” relationship with solar development. Data Centers & Community Impacts: Yankton County passed a six-month data center moratorium while it drafts rules, citing possible economic and environmental effects; Pennington County also approved a new half-percent sales tax tied to property tax relief, with local officials weighing how costs may ripple to consumers. Agriculture Innovation: A new crop-disease early-warning tech is being used by farmers, aiming to flag problems before they’re visible—potentially helping reduce losses. Wildlife Safety: A Rapid City children’s book is pushing bison-safety messages as bison encounters and attacks draw more attention.

Solar Power Debate: A new 99-megawatt solar farm near Canistota is moving fast, backed by $2.8 million in state tax relief, but neighbors are pushing back over land and rural impacts. Local Road Access: Sioux Falls’ Spencer Park main entrance will close July 23-25 for Cliff Avenue paving, with pedestrian access still open. Data Centers vs. Communities: Yankton County approved a six-month data center moratorium (with a possible six-month extension) while planning and zoning drafts rules, citing both economic and environmental concerns. Pesticide Use on Sunflowers: EPA approved South Dakota’s Vertento emergency exemption to manage resistant red sunflower seed weevils during the 2026 growing season. Storm Recovery Help: South Dakota Department of Corrections crews and inmates wrapped up storm cleanup in Huron and Highmore, logging thousands of hours of labor. Water Infrastructure Push: Senate action advanced a feasibility study for expanding the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System. Wildlife Note: Researchers documented evidence that cougars are returning to Minnesota and may be reproducing there. Heat and Safety: Sturgis rally planning includes temporary traffic signals and speed reductions across the Black Hills.

Pesticide Approval for Sunflower Weevils: The EPA okayed South Dakota’s Vertento® for use on sunflowers to control resistant red sunflower seed weevils under a Section 18 emergency exemption running July 15–Aug. 31, with strict label rules for applicators. Storm Recovery in Eastern SD: South Dakota Department of Corrections offender crews finished storm cleanup work in Highmore and Huron, logging more than 2,700 hours of labor removing debris, cutting trees, and clearing streets, parks, and the landfill. Drinking Water Infrastructure Push: U.S. Sen. John Thune and Sen. Mike Rounds’ Lewis and Clark Regional Water System expansion feasibility study advanced in the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, backed by Sen. Chuck Grassley and aimed at expanding safe water access for rural communities. Farm Risk Coverage Update: USDA agreed to restore the prevented planting buy-up option under crop insurance, a change producers have relied on when disasters stop timely planting. Extreme Weather Reality Check: A report says tornado patterns are shifting east, with Midwest states seeing record-level activity, underscoring how fast severe weather risk is changing. Water Safety Reminder: Alcester residents were ordered to boil tap water after a broken valve during water main repairs. Community Conservation & Access: The Silver Lake Association marked the reopening of a roadside park tied to restoring public access to Hutchinson County’s Silver Lake. Gardens for Pollinators and Natives: SDSU Extension launched a free “South Dakota’s Greatest Gardens” contest with categories including pollinator/native gardens, with winners displayed at the state fair.

Wildfire & disaster response: FEMA approved more than $750,000 in Western South Dakota Public Assistance for storm recovery, including Rapid City debris removal after straight-line wind damage and repairs to roads, culverts, and Game, Fish and Parks dams. Public health & air quality: Rapid City urged residents to monitor local air quality as wildfire smoke drifts through the region; the city reported moderate AQI conditions and pointed people to AirNow for updates. Extreme weather risk: The National Interagency Fire Center raised the national wildfire preparedness level to 5, citing heavy resource demand and noting western SD’s drought and flash-dry fuels raise fire spread risk. Heat and crops: A Brookings County farmer said a heat dome caused limited corn damage thanks to timely rain, but more precipitation is still needed as parts of the state remain dry. Water infrastructure: Alcester issued a boil-water order after a water main valve broke during repairs. Community outdoors: SDSU Extension launched a free “South Dakota’s Greatest Gardens” contest with categories including pollinator/native and vegetable/edible gardens. Rally traffic safety: SDDOT plans temporary signals and speed reductions for the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, starting late July.