South Dakota

Fish, Wildlife and Biodiversity

South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks (http://www.sdgfp.info/index.htm)
This is the state agency responsible for the conservation and management of the state’s natural resources including wildlife and aquatic resources. Sources of information on threatened and endangered species include:

Natural Heritage Program (http://www.sdgfp.info/Wildlife/Diversity/index.htm)
The Natural Heritage Program provides information on threatened and endangered plants and wildlife, habitats of particular conservation concern, and stewardship actions designed to benefit these important natural resources. A statewide-list of endangered or threatened plant and wildlife species is available for download. **A fee is charged to compile species lists and information for site-specific requests.

State Wildlife Action Plan (http://www.sdgfp.info/wildlife/diversity/Comp_Plan.htm)
In 2005, all states completed a State Wildlife Action Plan to identify and focus management on fish and wildlife in greatest need of conservation. This document provides an overview of key species (primarily nongame) and habitats of conservation concern throughout the state.

Special Sites

South Dakota State Historical Society (http://history.sd.gov/)
This organization preserves and promotes the cultural heritage of South Dakota. Programs of interest include:

Historic Preservation (http://history.sd.gov/Preservation/)
This is the primary state agency with knowledge and expertise in historic preservation, providing assistance in identifying and protecting historic properties and other cultural sites in the state. The staff includes preservation specialists (including historians, architectural historians, historic architects, and archaeologists). The Bureau maintains the Cultural Resources Information Display, an online map-based inventory of the documented historic and cultural resources and surveys of the state. Archaeological information is found in the Archaeological Resources Management System, which requires authorization to access.

Archaeology (http://history.sd.gov/Archaeology/)
This program is the primary source of information on the prehistoric and historic archaeology of South Dakota. The office works to protect and preserve archaeological sites and objects, including human burial sites.

State Archives (http://history.sd.gov/Archives/)
The State Archives identifies, preserves, and makes accessible records (such as census records, military records, family histories, and various county, state and federal records) and other documents of historical value to the state.

Natural Resources Conservation Service - Cultural Resources (http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/technical/cultural.html)
The NRCS provides financial and technical assistance, including guidance related to cultural resources, to implement conservation practices. Prior to implementation, NRCS staff or other conservation partners will normally conduct site visits that include an inventory of cultural resources. If resources are identified, they can help provide options for preservation and a variety of appropriate land uses. Even if you are not receiving funding from NRCS, the Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator can provide information regarding cultural resources and may be able to visit your property or connect you with other organizations or individuals for assistance. The Cultural Resources Directory can be used to locate your state’s Cultural Resources Specialist or Coordinator.

Best Management Practices