AGP Executive Report

Public Health: West Nile virus is surging early in 2026, with CDC reporting 48 cases across 23 states by June 30—38 neuroinvasive cases and four deaths—prompting renewed mosquito-avoidance and local control focus. Extreme Heat: A heat dome is pushing South Dakota and the Northern Plains toward repeated near-100-degree days, stressing livestock and raising risks for people with dementia; caregivers are urged to watch for overheating and keep cool, while farms face reduced feed intake and possible fatal heat stress. Wildfire Risk: Fire restrictions are now in effect at Belle Fourche Reservoir and Rocky Point State Recreation Area, including campfire bans and limits on cooking and vehicle access to reduce human-caused ignition chances. Water & Climate: The Missouri River Basin remains dry, with runoff forecast above Sioux City at 60% of average, even as some late-June rain offers limited drought relief. Local Housing: Herreid is receiving a Community Foundation grant to build affordable apartments—an effort to keep rural communities livable as housing shortages persist. Community & Care: AARP South Dakota announced $125,800 in Community Challenge grants for nine local projects aimed at safer aging, mobility, and stronger connections. Road Safety: SDDOT is moving ahead with pipe replacement on Highway 471 near Edgemont, with lane closures and phased milling and paving planned through November. Environment Watch: South Dakota also warns warmer weather can spark toxic algal blooms dangerous to pets, people, and livestock.

Extreme Heat & Fire Risk: Rapid City hit 102°F and matched a 2007 record for consecutive 100-degree days, while Belle Fourche Reservoir and Rocky Point State Recreation Area added fire restrictions, including no campfires, amid dry, dangerous conditions. Severe Weather Watch: Sioux Falls logged 226 severe weather warnings through July 9—more than 16 of the last 17 summers—keeping the area at risk for more storms. Water Supply & Drought Signals: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers says Missouri River Basin runoff remains below average, with July 2026 forecast above Sioux City at 60% of normal. Wildlife Protection: A Wallace teen’s “Second Chance Flight” helped expand South Dakota law so permit holders can rescue eggs from pheasants and other non-migratory birds when nests are destroyed. Local Environment & Community: Avera is acquiring CNOS in Dakota Dunes, and Rapid City is pushing demolition of neglected properties tied to Star Village management issues. Energy & Land Use: A new 99-megawatt solar project near Canistota is moving fast after years of local opposition and legal wrangling. Science & Public Trust: The T. rex fossil “Gus,” discovered on South Dakota land, sold for a record $50.1 million—sparking renewed debate over fossils ending up in private hands.

Wildlife & Farming Policy: Wallace teen Madison Grimm’s “Second Chance Flight” helped push a new South Dakota law (effective July 1) that lets permitted rescuers save eggs from pheasants, grouse, and prairie chickens when nests are destroyed by farm equipment. Lake Restoration: A Hutchinson County nonprofit, the Silver Lake Association, is working to restore the roughly 400-acre Silver Lake near Dolton, reopening public access and aiming for a return of swimming and healthier wildlife habitat. Extreme Heat & Public Safety: Rapid City tied a 2007 record with 102°F on Tuesday and faces continued triple-digit heat; officials also warn that leaving dogs in parked cars is deadly within minutes. Climate Impacts on Crops: A heat dome is raising concerns for spring wheat quality and grain fill, with some areas helped by recent rains but others facing stress. Solar Development: Construction is moving fast on a 99-megawatt solar farm near Canistota, supported with state tax relief but still tied to local land-use debates. Wildlife Health Watch: South Dakota state vet says there’s no immediate threat of New World screwworm reaching the state, but monitoring continues as cases are reported in Texas. Infrastructure & Roads: SDDOT plans asphalt paving on S.D. Highway 271 near Artas and concrete work adjustments in Pierre’s Euclid Avenue reconstruction due to heat. Conservation Science & Careers: South Dakota Mines student Gavin Bird is gaining wildfire forecasting experience through an internship with South Dakota Wildland Fire. Federal Species Review: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is moving forward with an Endangered Species Act status review for the plains spotted skunk after new information. Energy Markets: USDA’s regenerative feedstock rule would let farmers quantify carbon intensity from practices like cover crops and reduced tillage, potentially opening new markets for biofuel feedstocks. Data Centers Debate (National): New York’s moratorium on large data centers is fueling a broader fight over energy use and environmental impacts. Fossil Headlines: A T. rex skeleton nicknamed “Gus,” discovered on a South Dakota ranch, sold for a record $50.1 million at Sotheby’s.

Extreme Heat & Agriculture: South Dakota’s spring wheat is under stress as a heat dome pushes temperatures near 100°F, with climatologist Laura Edwards warning heat can shorten key plant stages and hurt quality and grain size. Public Health & Safety: Rapid City’s heat advisory continues, with officials urging hydration and reduced outdoor activity as fire danger climbs. Wildlife Protection: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is moving forward on federal protection for the plains spotted skunk, starting a 12-month status review after a 90-day finding. Local Homelessness Response: A Pine Ridge nonprofit is extending day shelter hours to help people stay safe during extreme heat. Transportation Planning: SDDOT will hold an information meeting Aug. 4 on the U.S. Highway 16/16B/Catron Boulevard interchange project in Rapid City, with construction expected to run into late 2032. Research & Sustainability: South Dakota Mines students are working on microbial-based fertilizer approaches to cut costs and reduce reliance on synthetic inputs. Conservation & Community: A Rapid City grass-fire reminder and ongoing water-restriction messaging highlight how quickly conditions can turn dangerous during hot, dry weather. Fossil Spotlight: A T. rex nicknamed “Gus,” discovered on a South Dakota ranch, sold for a record $50.1 million at Sotheby’s, reigniting debate over fossils going into private hands.

Extreme Heat & Fire Risk: Western South Dakota is stuck in a prolonged heat wave, with Rapid City hitting 102 (tying a record) and other spots reaching 103–106. The National Weather Service warns dangerous heat plus dry, breezy conditions could raise heat illness risk and fire danger through Thursday. Water & Pets: Rapid City is keeping summer water restrictions in place through Sept. 1, and officials are also warning that warmer weather can spark toxic algal blooms in Black Hills lakes—dangerous to pets, people, and livestock. Local Wildlife Habitat: A “Defender for Habitat” raffle will support wildlife habitat restoration in South Dakota, with prizes including a Can-Am Defender. Conservation-Friendly Farming Update: A new state law lets people with federal permits rescue viable eggs from more bird types beyond waterfowl, helping reduce losses when haying destroys nests. Wildlife Protection Watch: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is reviewing whether the plains spotted skunk should be listed under the Endangered Species Act. Weather Safety Reminder: Rapid City firefighters responded to a small grass fire near East Boulevard North, underscoring the need to avoid sparks and follow local fire restrictions.

Wildlife Habitat Fundraiser: A new “Defender for Habitat” raffle in Pierre lets South Dakotans win a Can-Am Defender while supporting wildlife habitat restoration, with prizes including dog kennels and YETI gear. Heat & Water Watch: Rapid City is keeping water restrictions in place through September 1 due to Pactola Reservoir conditions, with odd/even watering rules and strict timing; meanwhile, KOTA Territory is under First Alert extreme heat through Wednesday, with heat index values near 95–105 and fire danger concerns. Black Hills Fire Risk: Western South Dakota and the Black Hills are baking over 100°F with drought and dry fuels raising wildfire risk; Pennington County also banned open burning due to very high grassland fire danger. Agriculture Under Stress: South Dakota’s winter wheat harvest is off to a strong start, but corn needs timely rain as a heat wave threatens pollination. Conservation Policy: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will study seven species for possible Endangered Species Act protections, including the plains spotted skunk, which ranges into South Dakota. New Egg-Rescue Law: A new state law lets permit holders rescue eggs from more bird types, helping save viable eggs when hay harvesting destroys nests.

Extreme Heat & Fire Risk: A prolonged heat wave is baking western South Dakota and the Black Hills, with triple digits pushing into the week and wildfire concerns rising as drought and dry conditions persist; Rapid City is forecast near record highs while a red-flag fire warning and very low humidity keep crews on alert. Local Fire Safety: Pennington County has prohibited open burning due to Very High grasslands fire danger, banning burn piles, slash burning, burn barrels, and other non-enclosed fires. State Parks Watch: June camping was mixed—parks with water attractions generally held up better than those without—while statewide camping units were down 4% year over year, though Father’s Day weekend set a record. Public Health Alert: The CDC says West Nile virus is starting earlier and spreading wider than usual, with severe cases already reported in multiple states—an urgent reminder to cut mosquito breeding around homes. Wildlife Crime: A multi-state deer poaching investigation led to 44 misdemeanor convictions, including illegal night killings and hunting violations tied to tips. Courts & Access: South Dakota’s court system is considering merging the Fourth and Seventh judicial circuits, raising rural access-to-justice concerns.

Extreme Heat & Wildfire Risk: Rapid City and much of the northern Plains are bracing for days of triple-digit heat under an expanding heat dome, with First Alert heat warnings extended through Thursday and a Sunday red-flag fire danger tied to very low humidity and strong winds. Water Quality Protection: South Dakota’s riparian buffer program is growing, now covering 379 miles of shoreline across 130 projects after lawmakers added $8 million to expand the effort to cut runoff and improve habitat. Local Climate Resilience (Community Cooling): Rapid City officials are pointing residents to parks, pools, libraries, and shaded spots to beat the heat as temperatures stay dangerously high. Wildlife & Enforcement: A multi-state deer poaching investigation led to 44 misdemeanor convictions, including illegal night killings and decapitated carcasses in South Dakota. Clean Water Funding (Regional): EPA awarded $432,000 to Colorado for drinking-water upgrades, including PFAS and lead-related work, as part of a broader western-states package that also includes South Dakota. Food & Livestock Sustainability (Research): South Dakota Mines students are working on microbe-based alternatives to synthetic fertilizers to help farmers improve soil nutrients more sustainably. Backyard Livestock (Policy + Practice): Rapid City residents are learning how to keep backyard hens under the city’s new ordinance, with a library class covering coop rules and care.

Extreme Heat & Fire Risk: Rapid City is already hitting 101°F and officials warn triple-digit temperatures could linger through Thursday, with a red flag warning Sunday as humidity drops into the teens and winds raise wildfire danger. Local Cooling Options: Rapid City also shared where to cool down—parks, pools, libraries, shaded trails, and creek access—aimed at helping residents and visitors get through the heat safely. Water Quality Buffers: South Dakota’s Riparian Buffer Initiative is expanding, with 130 working buffer projects covering 379 miles of shoreline and new interest from landowners after lawmakers added $8 million. Drinking Water Funding: EPA awarded South Dakota $221,000 for rural drinking water upgrades, including support for PFAS and lead-related compliance. Wildlife Enforcement: A multi-state deer poaching investigation tied to illegal night killings led to 44 misdemeanor convictions and hunting privilege losses. Sustainable Farming Research: South Dakota Mines students are developing microbe-based alternatives to synthetic fertilizer, using drones to assess soil and crop needs. Community Resilience: Rapid City’s new backyard chicken ordinance is already driving public education classes, as residents look for practical local food options.

Heat Dome & Public Health: A “significant and dangerous” heat dome is building over the Northern Plains and could last at least a week, with temperatures 15–25°F above normal and especially risky overnight heat that strains health, power grids, farms, and wildfire response. Local Cooling in Rapid City: City officials are pointing residents to parks, pools, shaded areas, and indoor options like the library as triple-digit heat arrives. Northern Lights Forecast: NOAA says northern South Dakota is in the possible viewing area for Saturday night’s aurora, with best chances in darker, higher spots. Water Quality Buffers: South Dakota’s riparian buffer program is expanding after an $8 million boost, now covering 130 projects and nearly 4,000 acres to cut runoff and protect streams and habitat. Sustainable Farming Research: South Dakota Mines students are using drones and microbes to develop alternatives to synthetic fertilizers, aiming to improve soil nutrient access for farmers. Local Policy & Community Life: Rapid City’s new backyard chicken ordinance is already drawing residents to learn how to keep hens properly, while a Jefferson Days event highlights small-town community traditions. Infrastructure & Safety: A vehicle crash damaged a Yankton restaurant but it reopened after inspections. Courts & Access: South Dakota’s court system is considering merging the Fourth and Seventh circuits, raising rural access-to-justice concerns.

Extreme Heat Watch: The National Weather Service is warning of an “unusually large, strong and long-lasting” heat dome starting this weekend, with temperatures 15–25°F above normal and especially dangerous overnight heat that can worsen heat illness and wildfire risk. Local Health Prep: Rapid City health officials urged residents to hydrate, watch for early warning signs like extreme thirst and dizziness, and keep kids and older adults protected. Water Quality Buffers: South Dakota’s working riparian buffer program has grown to 130 projects covering 379 miles of shoreline after an $8 million legislative boost, paying landowners to plant streamside vegetation to cut erosion and filter runoff. Wildlife & Soil Innovation: South Dakota Mines students are developing microbe-based alternatives to synthetic fertilizers, using drones and special cameras to assess soil and crop health. Storm Impacts: The National Weather Service officially confirmed an EF1 tornado hit Huron on July 2, clearing the way for potential federal aid. Corrections & Community: South Dakota will begin transferring incarcerated women into a new $87 million Rapid City prison next month, adding 288 beds and treatment-focused programming.

Water Quality Buffers Expand: South Dakota’s riparian buffer program is growing fast after lawmakers added $8 million, with 130 working buffer projects now covering 379 miles of shoreline across 118 streams and 19 lakes—aimed at cutting erosion and filtering farm runoff while keeping land in production. Drinking Water Funding: EPA awarded Colorado $432,000 for drinking water upgrades, and South Dakota is slated to receive $221,000 under a regional package that also targets PFAS, lead sources, and Safe Drinking Water Act compliance. Extreme Heat Warning: Meteorologists are flagging a long-lasting heat dome with “significant and dangerous” temperatures starting this weekend, including hotter nights that raise health risks and worsen wildfire conditions—plus local Rapid City-area heat alerts and safety guidance. Heat + Storm Hazards: Forecasters also warn of severe storms and flash-flood risk in parts of the Plains and beyond, with lightning and heavy rain threats continuing. Black-Footed Ferret Milestone (Fragile Success): South Dakota is marking 30 years since black-footed ferrets were reintroduced, but recent dry conditions are stressing populations in the Badlands’ Conata Basin. Wildlife + Land Management: South Dakota Drought Monitor updates show most of the state is abnormally dry to worse, underscoring pressure on habitats and water. Grid Reliability Report: A 49-page report on a major Rapid City power outage traces the cascade to transmission switching issues after weather-delayed maintenance, affecting about 250,000 people across multiple states. Local Climate-Smart Agriculture: SDSU Extension hired a sheep and goat specialist to support producers with research-backed management practices tied to sustainability and rangeland health.

Drought & Heat Watch: The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows 86% of South Dakota in abnormally dry to severe drought, with extreme drought in the southwest, as an Excessive Heat Watch stays in effect for Rapid City through Monday and First Alert Weather Days warn of record-chasing triple-digit heat. Public Health & Water Safety: Rapid City-area health officials are urging seniors to use cooling centers during extreme heat, while South Dakota Lakes and Streams Association warns that warmer conditions can boost toxic algae blooms—“when in doubt, stay out.” Wildlife Conservation: Black-footed ferrets mark 30 years since reintroduction into the wild, but recent dry conditions are stressing the Conata Basin population. Severe Weather & Mosquito Risk: Sioux Falls has seen a very high number of severe weather warnings this year, and CDC reports West Nile virus is off to its earliest, most aggressive start in over 20 years—mosquito precautions are urged. Local Land Use & Infrastructure: Clay County commissioners heard an informational presentation on data centers as they consider future rules, and Sioux County discussed a proposed data center while maintaining a moratorium. Ag Tech: South Dakota Mines researchers are building drones to help farmers target nutrients more precisely and reduce fertilizer impacts.

Data Center Debate in Sioux County: Sioux County supervisors revisited a proposed data center near Hull after a one-year moratorium on data centers and industrial battery storage—meant to buy time for zoning rules—was approved earlier this year. Toxic Algae Warning (Black Hills): Warmer weather is raising the risk of hazardous algae blooms in area waters; officials urge “when in doubt, stay out,” and to report suspicious blooms to the state. Severe Weather Watch (Sioux Falls): Sioux Falls is nearing record levels of NWS severe weather warnings, with another First Alert day called for strong storms and hail risk. Uranium Mining Push (South Dakota): A federal uranium approval in South Dakota is being framed as part of a nuclear boom, even as critics flag water use and contamination concerns. Recycling & Yard Waste Disruption (Rapid City): Rapid City temporarily removed recycling and yard-waste containers near Fitzgerald Stadium for a baseball tournament, with drop-off options elsewhere. State Economic Development (Defense & Recycling): The state approved major incentives tied to defense manufacturing in Clear Lake and a new integrated metal recycling facility in Huron. Road Work (I-90 near Spearfish): SDDOT scheduled pavement repairs starting July 13, shifting traffic to one lane and lowering speeds through the work zone.

Highway Planning: SDDOT will host a public open house on July 28 for a proposed grading, surfacing, and structure project on S.D. Highway 25 near Scotland, with written comments accepted at the meeting and online. Severe Weather Watch: A First Alert Weather Day is in effect for Thursday with a slight risk for parts of western South Dakota and the Black Hills, where isolated strong to severe storms could bring large hail and damaging winds. Heat Safety: Local safety reminders stress that kids can suffer heatstroke in parked cars fast—even in shade—urging families to treat vehicle heat as an emergency risk. Wildlife Safety in Parks: A trail runner was injured by a buffalo on Custer State Park’s Lover’s Leap Trail; park officials are adding signage and staff to monitor and move herds away from heavy-use areas. Ag & Climate Resilience: USDA is expanding crop insurance options for forage producers in South Dakota and other states starting in 2027, aiming to protect against market and yield losses. Local Energy & Industry: South Dakota’s first solar-powered manufacturing facility opened in Tea, generating about 592 megawatt-hours annually and supported by a tax incentive. Farming Innovation: South Dakota Mines students are developing tools for more precise fertilizer use, aiming to cut costs and reduce impacts on soil.

Wildlife Safety in Custer State Park: A trail runner suffered non-life-threatening injuries after a buffalo struck her on the Lover’s Leap Trail. Severe Weather Watch: A First Alert Weather Day is in place for Thursday with a slight risk of severe thunderstorms across KOTA Territory, including the Black Hills and Rapid City. Emergency Response Basics: Johnson Siding volunteer firefighters urged residents to post clear, high-contrast house numbers so crews can find the right home fast, especially at night. Renewable Energy in Tea: South Dakota’s first solar-powered manufacturing facility opened in Tea, with rooftop solar expected to generate 592 megawatt-hours annually and pay back in about 10 years. Local Food & Waste Practices: Natural Grocers is opening a second South Dakota store in Rapid City and says it will not offer single-use bags at checkout. Wildlife Management Update: The GFP Commission approved a new three-year depredation hunt plan, emphasizing hunts as a last resort after other damage-prevention steps. Storm Impacts & Preparedness: Heavy rain has postponed SDSU’s Northeast Research Farm Field Day in Brookings to July 23. Community & Conservation Signage: Fort Leonard Wood is expanding “no-mow” areas to protect native habitat and pollinators.