South Dakota
South Dakota tourism continues to rise after pandemic
/cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/gray/FFZ4MZJGNZEMVGAPG3T23FISEA.jpg)
RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) -This previous yr, the full financial influence of tourism was $7.6 billion.
Customer spending elevated by $350 million in comparison with pre-pandemic numbers and total in 2022, 14.4 million folks visited South Dakota. These vacationers spent a complete of $4.7 billion which is 15% greater than pre-pandemic highs. This additionally set an all-time file for the amount of cash spent.
Though final yr was an awesome yr for tourism, Reptile Gardens administration stated that of their 85-year historical past, 2021 took the highest spot.
“The yr after the pandemic was so profitable, that 2022 and past had been evaluating the numbers from 2018, and 2019. So sure, final yr was one other massive yr for us however not close to what 2021 was,” stated David Yahne, curator of horticulture.
With extra guests touring to South Dakota, this helps the general economic system of the state.
The income that comes from vacationers helps convey in additional jobs. About 56, 826 jobs had been supported by the tourism trade, offering an earnings of $2.1 billion for these households.
Proper now Reptile Gardens is preparing for his or her opening day on March 4.
“We do have plenty of adjustments this yr, in addition to with yearly. We do wish to evolve, we like to ensure our animals have completely different shows. We do have main development happening in our dome proper now,” stated Yahne.
Yahne stated they’re anticipating 2023 to usher in barely extra vacationers than 2022.
Copyright 2023 KOTA. All rights reserved.

South Dakota
Pierre Elks Lodge donates to South Dakota Discovery Center

google-site-verification: google9919194f75dd62c5.html
South Dakota
Bat tests positive for rabies at Great Plains Zoo

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Dakota News Now) – According to the South Dakota Department of Health, the Great Plains Zoo reported that a bat on its campus has tested positive for rabies.
The bat was reportedly found between the pollinator garden and the farm just before noon on May 9.
“No guests were known to have contact with the bat. Zoo animals, veterinary team members, and designated animal care staff are routinely vaccinated against rabies. There is no concern for the staff members who captured or handled the animals that were infected,” said GPZ veterinarian, Dr. Jenny Clementson.
The bat has since been removed by animal care staff.
Those who believe they may have been in contact with the bat are asked to contact the South Dakota Department of Health.
More information about rabies can be found on the Department of Health website.
Copyright 2025 Dakota News Now. All rights reserved.
South Dakota
Obituary for Bobby Joachim at Osheim & Schmidt Funeral Home

-
Austin, TX1 week ago
Best Austin Salads – 15 Food Places For Good Greens!
-
Technology1 week ago
Netflix is removing Black Mirror: Bandersnatch
-
World1 week ago
The Take: Can India and Pakistan avoid a fourth war over Kashmir?
-
News1 week ago
Reincarnated by A.I., Arizona Man Forgives His Killer at Sentencing
-
News1 week ago
Who is the new Pope Leo XIV and what are his views?
-
News1 week ago
Efforts Grow to Thwart mRNA Therapies as RFK Jr. Pushes Vaccine Wariness
-
Politics1 week ago
Department of Justice opens criminal investigation into NY AG Letitia James
-
World1 week ago
New German chancellor aims for stronger EU ties with France and Poland