Agency

News

The press releases provide real time information to statewide and regional media and our customers with current news and events happening within the department.

If you are a member of the media and need additional information on any of the below articles or other topics related to our department, please email Jona.Ohm@state.sd.us.

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Archived Years
2017 2018 2019 2020
Jul
1 Jul | Wednesday

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks conducts Operation Dry Water to stop boating under the influence

South Dakota – The July 4th holiday means time on the water for boaters across the United States. With the increase in boater activity on the water, there is also an increase in the number of boating incidents and fatalities that take place during this time. From July 3 – 5, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP), in partnership with the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) and the U.S. Coast Guard, will be participating in the national Operation Dry Water heightened awareness and enforcement weekend.
Jun
30 Jun | Tuesday

GFP Officially Launches Snapshot South Dakota Photo Contest

Pierre, S.D. – South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) has officially launched their new photo contest, Snapshot South Dakota. This department-sponsored contest will focus on capturing the beauty of our outdoor resources in South Dakota.

Lake Alvin Re-Open for Swimming

PIERRE, S.D. - Lake Alvin, located outside of Harrisburg has re-opened for swimming.
25 Jun | Thursday

Lake Alvin Closed to Swimming Until Further Notice

PIERRE, S.D. – The swimming beach at Lake Alvin Recreation Area near Harrisburg is currently closed following routine testing that showed unhealthy levels of bacteria in the water.
24 Jun | Wednesday

Funding Available for Outdoor Recreation

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota State Parks and Recreation Director Scott Simpson announced today that applications are being accepted for grants from the Land & Water Conservation Fund (LWCF).

Randall Creek Campground Reopens, Reservations Available

PIERRE, S.D. – The campground at Randall Creek Recreation Area near Pickstown is now open, following a 15-month closure to allow for bridge reconstruction.
23 Jun | Tuesday

Habitat Stamp Goes Into Effect July 1

PIERRE, SD – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department (GFP) is reminding outdoor enthusiasts the habitat stamp requirement goes into effect July 1. The habitat stamp was created by the 2020 South Dakota legislature.
17 Jun | Wednesday

Sign Up for Prairie Dog Control Programs

PIERRE, S.D.—The South Dakota departments of Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) and Agriculture (SDDA) want to remind South Dakota landowners to register for assistance with prairie dog encroachment. The deadline for enrollment is August 15.
16 Jun | Tuesday

Now is a Great Time to Try Birding in South Dakota

With the recommendation to social distance, many people are looking for activities they can do on their own. South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) invites you to try birding.
12 Jun | Friday

Lake Mitchell Declares No Wake Zone

MITCHELL, S.D. – The city of Mitchell, in cooperation with the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department (GFP), has declared Lake Mitchell a “No Wake Zone.”
11 Jun | Thursday

Anglers, Boaters Can Expect to See Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Stations This Year

PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department (GFP) will begin operating mobile watercraft inspection and decontamination stations across the state to help combat the spread of zebra mussels. 

Game, Fish and Parks Offices Set to Re-open

PIERRE, S.D. – South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) offices are set to re-open June 15, statewide. While the state parks were able to remain open to camping and day-use, administrative offices and the outdoor campuses in Sioux Falls and Rapid City have been closed since mid-March.

GFP Challenges Nature Watchers to Join BioBlitz

PIERRE, S.D. – With group activities limited during the COVID-19 pandemic, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) invites nature lovers to participate in a virtual BioBlitz June 13-28.