Daugaard activates drought task force due to dry conditions

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) – The abnormally dry conditions affecting parts of South Dakota have prompted Gov. Dennis Daugaard to activate the state’s Drought Task Force.

Daugaard’s office says the task force met for the first time on July 11 in Pierre.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor map shows that abnormally dry conditions are scattered in the central and eastern parts of the state. Moderate and severe drought conditions are present in most of western South Dakota and in the far northeastern corner of the state.

Daugaard says the task force allows agencies to share information to respond appropriately and be ready in case drought conditions continue.

Daugaard’s office, the South Dakota National Guard, South Dakota State University and several departments, including Agriculture, Public Safety, and Game, Fish and Parks, are part of the task force.