New Funding Supports South Dakota Water Systems

By Scout Nelson

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources announces approval of $48.9 million in loans and grants for statewide water and wastewater improvement projects. The funding supports safer drinking water, stronger sewer systems, and better water supply for both rural and city communities.

A total of $36,958,000 in state loans is approved for drinking water and wastewater improvements. This includes $425,000 in principal forgiveness. Another $7,648,000 is provided through Emerging Contaminants for Small or Disadvantaged Communities grants. Additional ARPA grant funding of $4,313,307.85 is also approved.

Several rural water systems receive support. BDM Rural Water receives $233,450 in ARPA funds to build a new water treatment plant, add a reservoir, replace meters, and expand pipelines. Clay Rural Water receives $334,250 to construct new storage reservoirs, install a booster station, and improve distribution lines. Mid-Dakota Rural Water System receives $917,357.85 to upgrade pipes, install new meters, and expand membrane and backwash systems.

Shared Resources receives $1,500,000 to improve treatment plants, wells, pipelines, and storage tanks. South Lincoln Rural Water System receives $328,250 to add a water tank, new pump station, and a treatment plant. DANR also receives $1,000,000 for its statewide Riparian Buffer Initiative to protect water quality.

Cities also receive major loans. Mitchell receives a $3,930,000 Clean Water loan to upgrade sewer and stormwater systems. Rapid City receives a $14,512,000 loan to upgrade an existing well and build two new wells.

Sioux Falls receives $7,648,000 in grant funds to add a third connection to the Lewis and Clark Regional Water System. The city also receives a $17,746,000 loan to build new sewer lines, lift stations, and drainage systems.

Toronto receives a $770,000 loan with $425,000 in principal forgiveness to relocate water mains.

The funding is supported by the State of South Dakota and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The board approves the funding at its meeting in Pierre. These projects help protect public health and improve long-term water reliability.

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