Governor activates South Dakota Drought Task Force

Gov. Larry Rhoden is activating the state Drought Task Force to monitor drought conditions across South Dakota.

This task force coordinates the exchange of drought-related information among government agencies, according to the state Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. The collaboration aims to improve the state’s response to agriculture, fire management and water supply issues.

“My administration is committed to protecting our farmers, ranchers, and communities across the state. While recent rainfall has provided some relief, drought is still impacting parts of South Dakota,” said Rhoden. “The Drought Task Force will help us closely monitor conditions and respond quickly if needed.”

This comes as the latest drought monitor shows extremely dry conditions across southern South Dakota, while central parts of the state are experiencing abnormally dry conditions.

The task force’s first meeting is Thursday.

State agencies represented on the task force include the governor’s office, Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Department of Public Safety, Department of Game, Fish and Parks, South Dakota National Guard, Department of Social Services, Department of Tourism, and the Department of Tribal Relations. Additional partners include USDA’s Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource Conservation Service, South Dakota State University Extension and School of Mines climatologists, the National Weather Service and South Dakota Rural Water.

Because of the dry conditions, officials are urging the public to use caution with open burns and other activities that could start fires.