PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – Returns from tourism in South Dakota have set records each of the last eight years and the Department Secretary is confident this year will rebound from a slow start.

Jim Hagen says they set out to break the record every year.

Tourism was responsible for over $4 billion in economic activity last year.

Hagen says they continue to see good returns from their target markets.

Hagen says airlines are also showing confidence in South Dakota tourism.

Cold, rain, snow and flooding well into spring contributed to the slow start to the travel season.