Kevin Nyberg

This South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan employs a science-based methodology to evaluate the status of the state's fish and wildlife populations and their habitats, identify challenges, and define long-term conservation actions. The plan emphasizes voluntary partnerships, updated ecological frameworks for terrestrial and aquatic systems, and addresses climate change impacts. It focuses on identifying and conserving 101 Species of Greatest Conservation Need (SGCN) and delineating Conservation Opportunity Areas to guide ecosystem restoration and management, with a review scheduled at 10-year intervals.

This document serves as an Addendum to the South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan, implementing a minor revision completed in 2022. The revision's primary focus is to update and expand the list of 'species of greatest conservation need' (SGCN) originally identified in the 2014 plan. This involves amending tables detailing SGCN, their relationship to ecosystem diversity strategies, expected effects of climate change with suggested mitigation actions, and identified research and survey needs.

The 2023-2027 South Dakota Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan aims to meet the needs of citizens by providing quality, accessible outdoor recreational facilities across the state. It outlines six key strategies: providing diverse year-round opportunities for all ages and abilities; maintaining and improving existing parks and recreation areas; acquiring and protecting open space and natural resources; safeguarding fish and wildlife habitat; enhancing communication and education about outdoor recreation; and advocating for outdoor recreation's role in health and lifestyle. The plan emphasizes sound decision-making and collaboration among providers to guide the future direction of outdoor recreation opportunities.

The meeting agenda includes administrative items such as conflict of interest disclosures, commissioner salary days, and the election of a vice chair. Informational briefings cover legislative updates, staff introductions, and various division reports. The public hearing segment allows for public comment, and finalization items include discussions on water zoning, lake access improvements, waterfowl refuge status, and habitat programs. Multiple proposals are set for review, including hunting season regulations for deer, elk, waterfowl, and bighorn sheep. The Division of Wildlife plans to address action plans for Canada geese and wildlife damage management, alongside updates on elk management, fishery reports, and bounty programs. The Division of Parks and Recreation agenda features an RFP for the Custer State Park Resort lease and discussions on outreach programs, funding, and revenue reports.

The commission addressed various wildlife management and park administration topics. Key actions included the election of a Vice Chair, finalizing the establishment of a no-wake zone at Iron Creek Lake, removing waterfowl refuge status from Lake Albert, and modifying the Hunt for Habitat raffle program. The commission also proposed adjustments to antelope, deer, elk, and waterfowl hunting seasons. Wildlife-focused resolutions included the adoption of Canada Goose and Wildlife Damage Management action plans, and a transition from the Nest Predator Bounty Program to a Youth Trapping Recruitment Program alongside a new Coyote Bounty Program. Additionally, the commission approved the Custer State Park Resort Lease RFP and reviewed reports on elk action plans, fishery status, habitat stamp projects, license sales, and park outreach initiatives.