PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- Electric powered cars and trucks will become more evident on roads and highways over the next few years. The South Dakota House Transportation Committee got an update from Dave Huft, a technology specialist with the state Department of Transportation. He says legislators will soon have to figure out how to have electric vehicles… Read more »

YANKTON, S.D.(WNAX)-Despite occasional snowstorms that blow through the region, the dominant climate factor in the northern plains is drought. Illinois State Climatologist Trent Ford moderated the latest North Central Region Climate update. Ford says the dry conditions started early last fall. Ford says the outlooks don’t offer much relief. Soil moisture is also depleted across much of the region after several years of above normal precipitation and flooding.

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has proposed changing K  – 12 education standards for civics and government classes with an emphasis on South Dakota and American history. Senator Reynold Nesiba of Sioux Falls says he is not hearing much public support. Nesiba says even funding at the rate of inflation isn’t enough. Nesiba says… Read more »

RAPID CITY,S.D.(KOTA)- The Rapid City Police Department released their annual crime statistics report for the 2020 calendar year, and saw notable increases in rates of homicide and theft. Brendyn Medina, community relations specialist for the Rapid City Police Department said homicides doubled over 2019’s count, which is believed to be related to substance abuse. Along with that, Rapid City saw nearly a forty percent increase in burglaries, which Medina said could be tied to the pandemic. Despite this, there was a lower rate of arrests and calls for service, also likely tied to the pandemic Medina said. Officers during the height of the pandemic were given much more freedom regarding when and if they would engage in law enforcement activities like traffic stops.  

YANKTON, S.D. (WNAX)- The Lewis & Clark Regional Water Project will be able to restart construction this spring. Executive Director Troy Larson says they got official notification of their federal funding. Larson says they have some projects to continue and some to start. Larson says the funding keeps them close to their timeline.

PIERRE, S.D. (KCCR) – The National Weather Service Central Region office has recognized an Onida family for their dedication to taking weather observations for over 50 years. The Pierce Family, led by Robert Pierce has been given the Family Heritage Award for their commitment to taking weather readings over the last five decades. Tim Kearns… Read more »

PIERRE, S.D. (WNAX) – The Office of Management and Budget has completed its review of USDA’s final rule to establish a domestic hemp production program as directed by the 2018 farm bill. Monitoring that movement is South Dakota Industrial Hemp Association Executive Director Katie Sieverding.   She says there’s one last step to be completed… Read more »