The South Dakota Senate has approved a $10 million package aimed at improving water quality across the state. Senate Bill 222 passed on a 28–5 vote and directs $8 million toward incentives for landowners who install riparian buffer strips and other conservation measures, and $2 million toward upgrades for local water, wastewater, and stormwater systems.
Bill sponsor Senator Chris Karr of Sioux Falls says protecting water resources is essential for future generations, calling the measure a “caretaker bill” for the state’s most important natural resource. The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources also backed the proposal, saying the funding will expand ongoing efforts to reduce pollution.
Much of the focus is on the Big Sioux River watershed, where state‑funded conservation work has already reduced bacterial contamination. The new funding would support dozens of pending applications for buffer strips and livestock waste systems.
The bill also boosts infrastructure funding for small communities that struggle to afford water system upgrades without raising property taxes.
Senate Bill 222 now moves to the House for consideration.
