House Majority Leader Rep. Scott Odenbach, is considering legislation for 2026 that could restrict access to water from key aquifers in western South Dakota—a move aimed at curbing overdevelopment in the Black Hills region.
Odenbach’s concerns were sparked by a recent U.S. Geological Survey study showing that parts of the Madison, Minnelusa, and Inyan Kara aquifers are not recharging fast enough to meet current usage, even outside of drought conditions.
The findings have intensified debate around a proposed $2 billion pipeline that would carry water from the Missouri River to western South Dakota. Supporters argue the pipeline is essential to offset aquifer depletion and secure water before other states claim it. Odenbach, however, questions the project’s cost and long-term impact, warning it could fuel unchecked growth that alters the character of the Black Hills.
Odenbach is exploring changes to a little-known 1978 law that restricts aquifer use in East River South Dakota when recharge rates fall short. That law currently exempts the Black Hills, but Odenbach believes the new data suggests similar protections may now be necessary for the region.
While some officials argue that managed growth is vital for economic stability, Odenbach says safeguarding water resources must come first.
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