AGP Executive Report

Wildfire Watch: Crews reported overnight progress on the Lookout Fire near Spearfish, holding it at about 443 acres with no significant growth, while hot, dry conditions and gusty winds keep fire danger high and multiple road closures remain in place. Hay Truck Ignition: A separate hay-truck fire on I-90 near mile marker 11 led to lane closures and reignited the next day, underscoring how quickly dry fuels can spread. Landfill Safety: A landfill fire in Belle Fourche is raising alarms about lithium-ion batteries—officials warn residents not to toss them in curbside garbage and point to local recycling options. Storm Impacts: Heavy rain swept parts of the region, with several communities topping 4 inches, while officials note backyard totals can differ from official airport measurements. Local Sustainability: Rapid City is considering a biochar partnership to divert wood waste from the landfill, potentially turning woody debris into a soil and composting resource. Food Preservation: Rapid City’s Sustainability Committee and Rotary are launching fall canning and preservation classes aimed at cutting food waste and building practical skills. EV Infrastructure: A new HERE-SBD EV Index finds Americans are more open to EVs as confidence in public charging rises. Northern Lights: NOAA says South Dakota has a chance to see the aurora over the next couple of nights if skies stay clear.

Wildfire Safety: Crews continued work on the Lookout Fire near Spearfish, holding it around the mid-400 acres range while conditions stay dry and windy; officials urged the public to avoid closures and the area as fire danger remains very high in parts of western South Dakota. Recycling & Waste Reduction: Rapid City is weighing a partnership with Dakota Biochar to divert wood waste from the landfill and turn it into a soil and composting resource, potentially extending landfill life after storm debris. Home & Community Resilience: Rapid City’s Sustainability Committee and Rotary are launching fall food preservation classes (like tomato sauce and applesauce) aimed at cutting food waste and building practical skills. Climate & Policy Fight: A coalition of 25 state attorneys general is pushing to defund the National Academies over alleged bias in climate-related materials used in lawsuits—another front in the climate litigation and reporting wars. Public Health of the Sky: South Dakota could see the northern lights Tuesday and Wednesday if skies cooperate, with NOAA listing a low chance for the state. Landfill Fire Risk: A landfill fire in Belle Fourche is being linked to lithium-ion batteries, with officials warning residents not to toss them in curbside trash. Local Governance: Sioux Falls City Council is set to weigh a $1M stadium turf decision, with questions about long-term planning and lease terms tied to the Canaries. Agriculture Under Stress: Heat and drought are pushing some Moody County soybean fields toward earlier harvest, with SDSU Extension noting moisture shortfalls could reduce yields.

Wildfire Watch: The Lookout Fire in Spearfish has grown to about 445 acres, with very high grassland fire danger and gusty winds keeping conditions dangerous; officials say no structures are lost and no roads are closed, but residents should avoid the area. Drought & Crops: South Dakota’s climatologist reports a warm, dry summer with precipitation near normal in Aberdeen and little sign of an early frost; meanwhile, heat and drought are pushing soybean fields in Moody County toward earlier harvest. Prairie Restoration: A Nature Conservancy-led prairie comeback in Minnesota highlights a key lesson for the region: grasslands often need disturbance—especially fire—to beat invasives and keep habitat healthy. Water Quality Funding: DANR is accepting applications for federal Clean Water Act Section 319 nonpoint source grants, with a Oct. 1 deadline and a 40% local match requirement. Local Land Use: Stevens County approved a conditional use permit for the West River Dairy expansion, moving the project toward a needed water permit. Community Safety: Pennington County emergency managers stress preparedness and reliable warning methods as Black Hills weather threats include blizzards, flash floods, and wildfires. School Lunch Access: A national report ranks Vermont No. 1 for school meals, underscoring how states vary in reaching students with lunch and breakfast programs.

Water Quality Funding: DANR is accepting applications for federal Clean Water Act Section 319 nonpoint source control grants, with a Oct. 1 deadline and a required 40% local match—aimed at cutting runoff pollution from farms, forests, and cities. Severe Weather & Flood Risk: The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for Sioux Falls and a Flood Watch for parts of eastern South Dakota and southwestern Minnesota, with heavy rain and localized flash flooding possible. Wildfire Readiness: A Red Flag Warning is in effect for parts of western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming, warning of hot, dry air and gusty winds that could quickly spread fire. Black Hills Preparedness: Pennington County emergency officials urged residents to have reliable ways to receive alerts and to pack essentials like prescription meds and pet food ahead of blizzards, flash floods, and wildfires. Wildlife Safety: The Fall River County Sheriff shared tips after a mountain lion entered a home near the Cottonwood Springs Dam area, including keeping doors and pet doors closed and securing trash. Local Infrastructure: Highway 11 near Canton will close Tuesday for railroad crossing replacement work, with detours routed via Lincoln County roads. Mesonet Expansion: SDState’s mesonet network is seeking a landowner in Union County to host a new weather station to improve local forecasting and public data.

Weather & Wildfire Risk: The National Weather Service issued a Red Flag Warning for western South Dakota and nearby Wyoming Monday afternoon, citing unseasonable heat, dry air, and gusty winds that could rapidly spread fires. Flooding Watch: A Flash Flood Warning is also in effect for the Sioux Falls area early Monday as thunderstorms bring heavy rain. Agriculture & Soil Health: Researchers at the North Central Agricultural Research Laboratory near Brookings say adding sunflowers to a corn-soybean rotation can improve soil structure and help stabilize yields in dry years. Local Climate Accountability: A coalition of 16 state attorneys general is pushing back on corporate climate reporting rules, warning that climate disclosure efforts could put Big Four accounting firms at legal risk under state law. Rural Connectivity Delays: States are waiting on federal guidance for spending about $21B in rural broadband funds, leaving projects stalled as deadlines slip. State Politics (Beef Imports): South Dakota’s governor and challenger both criticized Trump over a decision to import more foreign beef, with debate focus also touching on how the state should advocate for ranchers.

Flood Watch: The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for parts of southwestern Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, warning that slow-moving storms could dump 2 to 4 inches of rain (with isolated totals near 6 inches) and trigger localized flash flooding through Sunday evening. Heavy Rain Impacts: South-central South Dakota’s Mitchell area saw major downpours overnight, with reports of 3.77 to 4.76 inches in and near Mitchell, plus additional heavy totals around Parkston and Ethan—raising concerns for more flooding and quarter-size hail. Local Climate Data: SDSU’s mesonet network is seeking a new landowner host in Union County to expand weather-station coverage for the National Weather Service and local residents. Water, AI, and Data Centers: A Rapid City debate is heating up over an EPA proposal that would reduce public notice for certain air-permit decisions tied to data centers, with local leaders pushing for more transparency and local control. Agriculture & Trade: South Dakota’s governor and challenger clashed at the State Fair over Trump’s plan to import more foreign beef, with the dispute also echoing broader concerns about domestic food production. Outdoor Recreation: Hundreds of mountain bikers rolled into Spearfish for the Dakota Five-O, a trail-supporting ride that helps maintain Black Hills National Forest routes.

Flood Recovery: Rock Valley, Iowa is set to begin flood-damaged home buyout acquisitions in September after FEMA funding was finalized, using a mix of Hazard Mitigation Grant (75%), state (10%), and local (15%) dollars. Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service says more heavy rain could hit the Mitchell area Saturday night into Sunday, with slow-moving storms possibly bringing 2–4+ inches and raising flash-flood risk where soils are already saturated, plus quarter-size hail and damaging winds. Data Centers & Air Permits: Rapid City is pushing for local guardrails as an EPA proposal would reduce public notice and feedback for some air permits tied to data centers, with residents citing concerns over water, sewer, electricity, noise, and vibration. Wildlife/Health Threat: South Dakota confirmed anthrax in a Meade County beef herd; the affected herd is quarantined and vaccinated, with guidance to avoid moving suspect carcasses before diagnosis. Ag Soil Health: SDSU Extension highlights long-running no-till rotation research showing soil-health gains from adding sunflowers and small grains to corn-soybean systems. Extreme Weather Record: NOAA confirmed a 6.6-inch hailstone in Illinois as the state record, while South Dakota’s world-record hailstone remains a benchmark for the region’s storm risk.

State Fair Debate: Gov. Larry Rhoden and challenger Dan Ahlers sparred at the South Dakota State Fair, with both slamming Trump on beef imports but disagreeing on other issues like property taxes and education funding. Heavy Rain & Flood Risk: The National Weather Service says more slow-moving storms could bring 2–4 inches (or more) near Mitchell and southeast South Dakota, where soils are already saturated, raising flash-flood concerns and the chance of quarter-size hail and strong winds. Data Centers vs. Local Control: Rapid City leaders are pushing for local guardrails as an EPA proposal would reduce public notice before states issue air permits for “minor” facilities like data centers—amid worries about water, sewer, noise, and utility impacts. Uranium Mine Legal Fight: The Oglala Sioux Tribe and activists challenge EPA actions tied to uranium mining in the Black Hills; EPA is asking a federal appeals court to toss the case. Livestock Health Alert: Anthrax has been confirmed in a Meade County beef herd; the Animal Industry Board quarantined the herd and says vaccination and proper carcass handling are key. Ag Soil Health Research: SDSU/USDA-linked research highlights crop rotations that include sunflowers and small grains to boost soil health and water infiltration.

Data Centers vs. Local Control: Rapid City leaders are pushing for local guardrails as an EPA proposal would reduce public notice for air permits tied to data centers—amid worries about water, sewer, noise, and utility impacts and a surge of big-tech money. Uranium Mining Legal Fight: The Oglala Sioux Tribe and activists challenge EPA actions tied to uranium mining in the Black Hills, with the EPA asking a federal appeals court to toss the case. Severe Weather Aftermath: Cleanup continues after Tuesday storms brought damaging hail and high winds across the region, including baseball-sized hail near Pickstown. Anthrax in Cattle: South Dakota confirmed anthrax in a Meade County beef herd; officials quarantined the operation and urged ranchers to avoid moving suspect carcasses. Road & Water Infrastructure: SDDOT scheduled a Highway 11 closure near Canton for railroad crossing work, and another Highway 14A inslope repair near Deadwood Creek. Drought & Grazing Pressure: SDSU Extension reports pastureland values rising sharply while heat and drought keep grazing tough. Wildlife & Biosecurity: A Hong Kong border stop intercepted live beetles, a reminder of how invasive pests can threaten farms and ecosystems. Climate Extremes in the Region: NOAA confirmed a record-breaking 6.6-inch hailstone in Illinois, while South Dakota’s own hail record remains a benchmark.

Severe Weather Aftermath: Baseball-sized hail and damaging winds hit southeast South Dakota and northeast Nebraska, with residents in the Yankton region assessing damage after storms that also brought some drought relief. Wildlife & Biosecurity: Hong Kong customs seized live beetles allegedly smuggled by a traveler, a reminder of how invasive pests can threaten farms and local ecosystems. Uranium Mining Legal Fight: The EPA asked a federal appeals court to dismiss a challenge by the Oglala Sioux Tribe and others over uranium mining actions in the Black Hills, keeping pressure on how mining is regulated. Public Health Alert: Anthrax was confirmed in a Meade County cattle herd, triggering quarantine and vaccination steps—an urgent watch for ranchers and neighbors. Climate Extremes: NOAA confirmed a new Illinois hail record of more than 6.6 inches, while South Dakota’s world record hail remains a benchmark for the region’s storm risk. Water & Security Tech: OpenAI announced subsidized cybersecurity access for water utilities and local governments, as ransomware threats to water systems remain a growing concern. Local Land & Water Policy: NRCS will hold a public State Technical Committee meeting in Pierre Sept. 9 to shape Farm Bill natural resources priorities. Fire Risk: Red Flag Warnings expanded across western South Dakota and parts of Wyoming, with officials urging strict no-burning and extra caution in dry, windy conditions.

Wildfire & drought risk: Wyoming officials issued fresh warnings that wildfire danger stays high as drought, dry vegetation and wind keep conditions primed for fast-moving fires, including new starts sparked by roadside chains. Water stress in the Black Hills: Western South Dakota ranchers and residents report shallow wells running slow or going dry as aquifers drop under consecutive dry years and extreme heat, forcing costly water hauling. Fire weather alert: Red Flag Warnings expanded across western South Dakota and northeastern Wyoming with very low humidity and gusty winds, urging residents to avoid open burning and secure trailer chains. Local surveillance backlash: Summerset residents challenged the city’s Flock Safety ALPR camera network, raising privacy and public-safety concerns at a city commission meeting. Agriculture & habitat: South Dakota producers are leaning into Conservation Reserve Program enrollment—suggesting more acres “make sense as grass”—as farm bill talks continue, with proposals that could support grazing and prescribed fire. Permits for dairy expansion: West River Dairy cleared a Stevens County hurdle with a conditional use permit, with remaining steps tied to DNR water permitting. Road & creek work: SDDOT plans inslope repairs near Deadwood Creek and a pipe replacement on U.S. Highway 14A near the Broken Boot Gold Mine, with traffic reduced to a 10-foot width restriction. Recycling update: Rapid City is moving toward bringing back weekly curbside recycling collection.

Severe Weather & Recovery: A presidential disaster declaration was issued for South Dakota after June 28–July 3 windstorms, with more than $4.5 million in public infrastructure damage across eight counties and two reservations, plus an additional $1.7 million for the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Drought & Water Supply: Western South Dakota ranchers and residents report shallow wells running dry or slowing dramatically as heat and drought deepen aquifer stress; experts point to low snowpack, limited rainfall, and rising water demand. Wildlife & Habitat: South Dakota farmers are enrolling nearly 290,000 acres in the Conservation Reserve Program, signaling a shift toward grass and conservation management that can support habitat—while farm bill talks continue. Livestock Health: South Dakota confirmed anthrax in a cattle herd in Meade County after exposure while grazing in Butte County; officials quarantined the herd and reminded ranchers not to move carcasses before diagnosis. Urban Environment: Rapid City is resuming weekly curbside recycling next week and adjusted holiday trash and transit schedules for Labor Day. Community & Air Quality: Fire weather is elevated in parts of western South Dakota with Red Flag Warnings, urging residents to avoid outdoor burning to prevent wildfires.

Livestock Health Alert: South Dakota confirmed anthrax in a cow-calf herd in Meade County, after suspected exposure while grazing in Butte County; the herd is quarantined and adult cattle are vaccinated, and officials urge ranchers not to move carcasses until diagnosis and proper disposal are confirmed. Urban Forestry & Insects: Brookings updated its ash tree removal rules because emerald ash borer is now widespread, allowing ash removals year-round to prevent hazardous dead or declining trees. Drought & Fire Risk: Extreme drought eased in parts of Nebraska, but long-term deficits remain, while western South Dakota is under Red Flag conditions for rising fire danger going into Labor Day. Storm Recovery: FEMA will reimburse up to 75% of public infrastructure repair costs from late June/early July storms affecting eight South Dakota counties and two reservations. Water Quality & Agriculture: Iowa’s cover-crop program hit record enrollment, targeting the Des Moines watershed to cut nitrate pollution in drinking-water sources. Recycling Update: Rapid City is resuming weekly curbside recycling pickup after a stretch of every-other-week service.

Severe Storm Recovery: FEMA will reimburse up to 75% of public infrastructure repair costs for storms that damaged roads, power systems, parks, and public facilities across eight South Dakota counties and two reservations in late June/early July, with additional aid for the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Recycling & Waste: Rapid City is back to weekly curbside recycling pickup after months on an every-other-week schedule. Conservation & Water Research: Ted Turner’s Turner Institute of Ecoagriculture is using a Nebraska/South Dakota prairie ranch as a “living laboratory,” studying bison grazing, wetlands, wildlife habitat, and soil and water impacts above the Ogallala Aquifer. Wildlife & Land Management: A drought-driven shift in deer behavior is being reported across the Northern Plains, with wildlife stress tied to weaker food availability. Energy & Power Lines: Local landowners in Pipestone County are pushing back on the proposed PowerOn Midwest 765 kV transmission line, asking commissioners for more answers about impacts. Climate Justice in Court: An appeals court vacated a 25-year sentence for a climate activist convicted of attacking energy infrastructure, saying the lower court improperly boosted the term based on alleged “terrorist motive.” Local Outdoor Access: Jewel Cave National Monument will switch to winter hours starting Sept. 8. Public Safety: AAA reports speeding is increasingly normalized by drivers, urging South Dakotans to follow posted limits and adjust for weather and road conditions.

Election & Energy Politics: South Dakota Sen. John Thune warned GOP Senate odds are tightening as Election Day nears, tying his concerns to President Trump’s policies—especially the push to import foreign beef to lower prices. Landfill Diversion & Biochar: Rapid City is moving toward a deal with Dakota Biochar to turn waste wood into soil product, aiming to extend landfill life and potentially keep rates down. Winter Tourism: Jewel Cave National Monument will shift to winter hours starting Sept. 8, open Tuesday–Saturday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., with tours weather permitting. Weather & Fire Risk: A forecast for western South Dakota highlights hot, dry conditions and breezy winds that raise near-critical to critical fire concerns, with only a small chance of stray showers. Severe Storm Impacts: Siouxland storms brought damaging winds and golf-ball-size hail, with some areas seeing meaningful rain. Agriculture Watch: USDA crop progress reports show Iowa corn development lagging behind typical pace, while conditions remain mostly good to excellent. Drought & Wildlife: Drought is reshaping animal behavior, including deer searching for food as winter survival odds worsen. Rural Health Tech: Gov. Larry Rhoden announced $90 million in federal grants for digital health modernization across rural and underserved South Dakota.

Rural Health Tech Push: Gov. Larry Rhoden awarded 82 grants totaling $90 million to modernize rural health care systems, with a focus on cybersecurity and data interoperability. Landfill Diversion in Rapid City: The city is moving toward a deal with Dakota Biochar to turn waste wood into biochar, aiming to extend landfill life after a 2025 windstorm. Winter Prep for Black Hills Energy Customers: Rapid City-area customers are facing rising rates, and the utility is urging simple home efficiency steps to cut heating costs. Severe Weather Watch: Forecasters flagged a likely severe thunderstorm watch across parts of northeast Nebraska and southeast South Dakota, with hail and damaging winds possible. Heat Impacts Schools: Several Rapid City-area schools released students early due to high temperatures, canceling after-school activities. Jewel Cave Winter Schedule: Jewel Cave National Monument will shift to winter hours starting Sept. 8, with limited daily tickets and reservation guidance. Agriculture Leadership: Vermillion farmer Jerry Schmitz was named an “Eminent Leader” in agriculture, family, and community, reflecting decades of soybean growth work. Grazing Policy Proposal: Senators Amy Klobuchar and Mike Rounds introduced the RANCH Act to expand grazing by converting marginal cropland into perennial grassland.