Gov. Larry Rhoden has activated South Dakota’s Drought Task Force to closely monitor worsening drought conditions across the state. The task force is scheduled to hold its first meeting Thursday, May 7.
According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate to extreme drought conditions cover much of southern South Dakota, with abnormally dry conditions across central areas. Northern counties remain largely unaffected.
Rhoden said the task force will help the state respond quickly to potential impacts on agriculture, water supplies, and fire danger. The group includes multiple state agencies, along with federal partners, climatologists, and water and agricultural experts.
State officials are also urging the public to use caution with open burns and other activities that could spark fires amid dry conditions.
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