STURGIS, S.D.(KBHB) – Thanks to a $1.6 million dollar appropriation from the South Dakota Legislature, the South Dakota State Metrology Lab is up and running in Sturgis.

The lab, which used to be in Pierre, found a perfect location in a shop that used to belong to the South Dakota Highway Patrol.

Because the lab contains very sensitive equipment, some modifications had to be done, but as Tyler Steen, Director of the Office of Weights, Measures and Inspections explains, it was a helpful step.

Temperature and humidity are very important when it comes to weights and measures. For example, the lab makes sure when you purchase a gallon of gas, you get a gallon of gas. Or, if you’re buying a 16-ounce sirloin – you want to make sure it’s a 16 ounce sirloin.

Because the lab contains equipment that must be accurate, the building must maintain a steady temperature and humidity level. In fact, Steen says each room has its own H-VAC system.

He says moving to Sturgis game them room to grow, and give each piece of equipment their own room.

Area media got a tour of the State Metrology Lab on Tuesday. It is led by State Metrologist Ron Peterson.