Has South Dakota set a goal for reducing water pollution in the state’s rivers and streams?

South Dakota’s Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources has not set specific targets for reducing water pollution in the state’s streams and rivers.

More than three-quarters (78%) of the stream-miles tested in South Dakota were found to be unhealthy for aquatic life, swimming and other beneficial uses, according to the department’s 2024 surface water quality report. Surface water is public property in South Dakota, not the property of landowners.

Major pollutants include fertilizer runoff from farm fields, soil erosion from agricultural operations and natural sources, and E. coli bacteria from livestock and wildlife feces. 

South Dakota requires a permit to discharge pollutants into surface waters, but issues such as declining inspections and lapsed permits due to staffing issues have contributed to frequent violations. 

The DANR has not responded to emails asking about statewide pollution reduction goals. Other states, including Minnesota and Iowa, have set statewide goals for pollution reduction.