Water For All

Written by Venkata Bharath Kumar Derangula, SDSU Graduate Student in the Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences, under the direction and review of Sushant Mehan, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Water Resource Engineer Specialist.

This Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Dashboard video series was created to raise awareness among South Dakota citizens about water information available to them.

Water Tools

Purpose and Scope

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has developed multiple GIS mapping viewers to promote transparency, support environmental monitoring, and give customers access to their resource management information. The Construction Aggregate Mining Map is one of these essential tools for managing and overseeing mining activities across South Dakota. A comprehensive and easy-to-use guide of the licensed sources of construction aggregate, both current (active) and historic (closed), this publication is an essential resource for researchers, policymakers, local communities, and industry professionals.

Aggregate, including sand, gravel, and crushed stone (other necessary materials to maintain South Dakota’s infrastructure), versus the Special Aggregates Department. It is used in building highways, roads, bridges, and other road construction projects. To responsibly manage these limited resources, the DANR issues mining permits and maintains a file of active and inactive sites in its central database. The Construction Aggregate and Mining Map serves as an interactive, publicly accessible platform for viewing these data geographically. It covers the entire state and details more than 500 active licenses, with nearly 1,400 pits covering around 20,000 acres and over 5,200 sites licensed since spring 1983. This historical level of detail is essential for stakeholders to identify overall trends in mining activities over the past 40 years and to evaluate the environmental and economic impacts of aggregate extraction.

Key Features of the Map

The Construction Aggregate and Mining Map combines GIS visualization with tabular data, allowing both external site analysis and querying to obtain more background information. Key Feature Site Information Access: Click on each mine site to view details such as the operator's name, facility address, county, material type (sand or gravel), site status (active or inactive), and specific location details, including township, section, and range. Base Map Choices: Multiple styles are available, including blueprint, charted territory, colored pencil, community map, and dark gray canvas. Switching basemaps provides additional context about transportation, neighborhoods, or natural features based on user needs. Legend and Symbolization: Map symbols include red dots indicating active aggregate sites, green dots representing reclaimed or inactive sites, and county polygons outlining jurisdictional boundaries. These visual cues aid both technical and nontechnical users. Attribute Table (Bottom, Interactive): The table at the bottom displays detailed information for each site, such as Operator Name, Address, City, County, State, Zip Code, Site Status, and Material Received. Databases can be exported for offline analysis to support research, reporting, and decision-making. For example, policymakers are interested in Brookings County activities, while researchers are tracking Morris Inc. or Homestake Mining Company. Another feature is the export tool, which allows users to download data sets directly. This makes it easier for researchers and planners to analyze aggregate data offline. This integration of spatial and attribute data helps prevent misidentification of a site. Filtering and Search Options: As expected, the filtering features are robust. Users can browse by site number or operator, or narrow results using filters such as county or license year. This enables users to focus on specific regions or operators.

Applications and Benefits

The Construction Aggregate and Mining Map has many applications across several industries:
Environmental Monitoring: Enables regulators to track the total and spatial extent of mining sites, facilitating the evaluation of impacts on land use, water quality, and aquatic ecosystems. Supervising not only active but also inactive sites helps maintain and manage reclaimed lands, ensuring they are suitable for other uses after reclamation. Policy and Planning: Local governments can utilize the map to assess resource abundance within their jurisdiction, which is crucial for infrastructure planning, zoning, and achieving a balanced approach between economic growth and environmental preservation. Public Transparency and Community Knowledge: Nearby communities can access information about mining operations in their area. Concerned residents can learn who operates the closest active sites and how they mitigate land disturbance, dust, or water impacts. Research and Studies: The comprehensive data set, spanning from 1983, provides a valuable resource for analyzing long-term patterns of resource extraction. Researchers can study spatial trends, compare activity over decades, and relate mining data to changes in demographics or the environment. Industry accountability promotes transparency within the mining sector, benefiting companies and ensuring that operators adhere to their license terms and practice responsibly.

Conclusion

More than just a mapping tool, the Sand, Gravel, and Construction Aggregate Mining Map demonstrates South Dakota’s dedication to managing these natural resources responsibly and transparently through cloud-based technology in environmental regulation. By utilizing statewide spatial data, historic mining claims, and advanced search features, the APMA is accessible to various agencies, helping to reduce the number of exploration permits submitted for approval. This map supports better decision-making by offering timely, reliable, and actionable information. Citizens, researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders now rely on the Construction Aggregate and Mining Map to advance the state’s goal of promoting economically responsible resource extraction while safeguarding our environment.

References

The Dry Draw Location Notice Search is a web-based interactive mapping/database developed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). It offers the public greater access to information about the dams and dugouts built in dry-draw watercourses. The app is an essential tool for DANR’s transparency, environmental tracking, and historical archive—regulatory enforcement and public knowledge.

A dry draw is that which South Dakota Codified Law (SDCL) 46-1-6(8) refers to as a drainageway in which water flows typically only during and following precipitation or snowmelt. Traditionally, these sites were used to construct small dams, dikes, or dugouts for livestock watering, irrigation, and erosion control. To control these structures, South Dakota statutes require landowners to file a “Location Notice” with the State Engineer’s Office, setting forth information such as ownership, drainage area, basin capacity, and a geographic description. Thousands of such notices have been posted throughout the state since 1939. The Dry Draw Location Notice Search application is an interactive, convenient, and easy-to-use digital tool for viewing these records.

The application consists of two main compartments: a search panel (on the left) and an interactive map viewer (on the right). The map is interactive and built on Esri’s ArcGIS platform, using a dataset that shows South Dakota’s geographical boundaries, allowing users to pan, zoom, and locate specific notice locations. The basemap layer is based on high-resolution imagery from Earthstar Geographics, Esri, HERE, Garmin, and others, so terrain and land use are depicted with great accuracy.

A search panel provides various filtering options to help users narrow down retrieved results. These include:

Township, Range, and Section (allows searches in PLSS); County, to show all location notices filed against a specific county; Owner, to locate notices filed by a particular person or business; Location Notice Number of records by location or find identifier; and Filed On and Before is used to sift notices out by their filing date.

When a search criterion is chosen, the map is refreshed with orange points for field location notices. Each dot represents an observed dry draw location. They can also zoom in to view specific items or click a point, which will open a pop-up window with information such as the owner’s name, date filed, legal land description, and direct links to documents and records. This user-friendly feature allows for rapid checking and spatial interpretation of water management information.

Below the map, a table shows all search results in tabular form—key fields store table key information. Location Notice Number (LN No.), Business or Owner Name, Date Received, County, Quarter-Section (Qsec), Section, Township, Range, and Range Direction (N/S or E/W), also AF value (acre-feet of storage).

There is also a link in each entry here to the source, which allows you access to the scanned PDF. These are PDFs of scanned versions of official filings dating back to the mid-20th century, often handwritten or typewritten. Each record includes the locator’s affidavit data, estimated drainage and basin dimensions, and notarization. Publication of these files in an accessible format will make the underlying data more transparent and maintain historical hydrological information.

The online map also features user-interface capabilities, such as the ability to pan and zoom the map on a sliding scale of distance or area, following where users want to check for notices, such as within a certain number of miles. This is significantly valuable for local studies or environmental impact evaluations. It is a tool available to hydrologists, ecological engineers, local government, and landowners that enables them to locate water structures, review legal filings, and help plan watershed management.

The Dry Draw Location Notice Search digitizes more than 50 years of location notice records, improving how South Dakota handles its water infrastructure data. It removes the need for manual archival searching and enables spatial analysis with other environmental datasets (e.g., soil maps, aquifer boundaries, and flood zones). The best also supports decisions on land development, agricultural planning, and water resource conservation, ensuring that projects adhere to environmental regulations and conserve sustainable resources.

Overall, the Dry Draw Location Notice Search provides an interface that combines historical records with contemporary GIS technology. It makes those static paper filings part of an interactive, spatially referenced digital system and a tool for enabling accessibility and efficiency. This application illustrates how the South Dakota DANR is using geospatial technologies to protect and manage waters, keep good environmental records, and involve the public in natural resource health.

References

Introduction

Developed by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), the Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) Map is a key monitoring tool. It gives the public, water managers, and scientists near-real-time access to data on harmful algal blooms statewide. Toxic algal blooms are rapid expansions of cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae, that can produce toxins such as microcystins. These toxins pose a threat to aquatic ecosystems, human health, and the recreational use of lakes and reservoirs.

Our HABs Map combines data from field monitoring, toxin sampling, and official notifications into a single, interactive GIS-based platform. By showing where blooms are occurring and how toxin levels change, the dashboard increases transparency, facilitates research, and provides communities with the information they need to stay safe while using South Dakota’s waters.

Purpose and Context

South Dakota is increasingly concerned about cyanobacterial blooms, which are linked to nutrient enrichment, high summer temperatures, and stagnant water. When these blooms happen, they can release toxins that make people, livestock, and pets sick. One of the most common toxins found in South Dakota, microcystins, can damage the liver at high levels.

The HABs Map was created to serve multiple purposes:

Public Awareness: Offer up-to-date information on the locations of toxic blooms and whether it's safe to recreate in those areas.
Regulatory Support: Enable local governments and agencies to issue advisories or close off access to water bodies when toxin levels surpass safe thresholds.
Research and Management: Provide scientists and watershed managers with historical and current data to help them understand bloom patterns and their drivers.

Dashboard Overview

When you open the HABs Map, you'll see a statewide view with monitoring sites marked by blue stars. Each star represents a location where we collect and analyze shoreline samples for cyanotoxins. The legend shows the toxin concentration ranges, from low levels (0–8 micrograms per liter) to extremely high levels above 1,000 micrograms per liter. This lets users quickly understand the relative severity of blooms immediately.

Another key feature is the use of red flag markers, which show official warnings about harmful algal blooms. These symbols point out water bodies with advisories, alerting swimmers, boaters, and anglers to potential health risks.

Interactive Features

The HABs dashboard provides several tools for exploration and analysis:

Layer Panel: Users can switch between datasets for different years (2019–2023), including those for toxin-producing algae, shoreline microcystin monitoring, mid-lake sampling, and HAB notifications. This historical view is crucial for analyzing trends and pinpointing recurring issues.
Attribute Tables: At the bottom of the screen, users can see detailed, tabular data tied to the map. The tables show waterbody names, sampling dates, toxin concentrations, and geographic coordinates. Users can filter, sort, or export columns to CSV for more in-depth statistical analysis.
Pop-Up Details: Clicking a star or flag icon shows a detailed data panel for that monitoring site. Here, users can review toxin results from multiple sampling events, view graphs of microcystin concentration trends, and identify the exact location using latitude and longitude.
Graphical Summaries: The dashboard shows charts that track microcystin concentrations over time, allowing managers to visualize bloom patterns throughout the summer season.
Sharing Tools: Users can create links or share map updates straight to Facebook, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), or Bluesky, making it easier to reach a wider audience.

Data and Reports

The HABs Map integrates field data from the DANR monitoring network. Reports include:

Shoreline Monitoring Data: Gathered near recreational areas to evaluate immediate risks to swimmers and boaters.
Mid-Lake Monitoring Data: Offers more in-depth information for deep-water sites, where cyanobacteria may build up in different ways.
Microcystin Concentration Records: Monitor microcystin levels over time, typically showing spikes after hot, calm weather or storm runoff.
Official HAB Notifications: Emphasize cases where toxin levels exceeded thresholds, triggering local alerts.

For instance, in 2023, the map highlights notifications for Lake Mitchell, Lake Louise, Jones Lake, Lake Herman, and Lake Marindahl. Microcystin levels ranged significantly, from moderate detections at around nine micrograms per liter to extremely high results of over 17,000 micrograms per liter.

Professional Applications

The HABs Map serves multiple professional communities:

Public health officials: use toxin data to evaluate risks, issue warnings, and prevent exposure to contaminated water by humans or animals.
Water Resource Managers: Use past data to identify seasonal patterns, assess nutrient management strategies, and lower the frequency of blooms.
Researchers: can use multi-year datasets to investigate the factors driving bloom formation, including land use, climate, and watershed characteristics.
Local governments and communities: can use notifications to plan recreational access, protect tourism, and keep residents informed.
Environmental and Agricultural Planners: Link bloom trends with patterns of nutrient runoff to inform long-term conservation planning.

Conclusion

South Dakota relies heavily on the Harmful Algal Blooms Map for decision-making and public outreach. This tool combines real-time data, historical records, and interactive GIS features to give a clear picture of water quality statewide. Its design enables the quick detection of active algal blooms, as well as the long-term examination of bloom patterns and risk factors.

For the public, the HABs Map offers straightforward and easily accessible information on water safety, protecting recreational users. For professionals, it provides a reliable data source for managing water quality, research, and policy development. As harmful algal blooms continue to pose a challenge to sustainable water resources, this dashboard will remain a vital tool for both immediate action and long-term planning.

References

The Measured Lake Elevations Map is an interactive tool that provides historical and current lake-elevation data for waterbodies across South Dakota via the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Data and Mapping Portal. Built from decades of elevation measurements, the system provides a user-friendly point-and-click interface for viewing changes in lake surface elevation. The public can utilize detailed maps to observe patterns in lake behavior and hydrological changes over time. When opening the app, users see a large statewide map with blue points, each representing a lake with collected elevation data over several years. The map is fully searchable and zoomable, and allows users to select a feature to view more details. Clicking on a point displays that lake’s measurement history. The right-hand panel offers valuable filtering options. The "Select Lake" filter enables users to narrow the list of lakes by name or county. This feature makes it easy to target specific waterbodies or compare local lakes. The "Clear Filters" button resets all filters, restoring the map to its full statewide view.

When a lake is clicked, the dashboard filters and displays more specific elevation data for that location. The lower part of the screen shows a full Measurement Table listing elevation measurements recorded by county, date, and key hydrologic calibration information, along with a Comment section — double asterisks indicate technical discussions from DANR. Some measurements date back to the 1970s or 1980s, providing a long-term series of water-level changes. An interactive elevation chart within the table illustrates how the lake's water level has changed over the years and decades. Users can hover over each point on the graph to see specific elevation and date details, helping them identify drought periods, flood years, steady increases or decreases in water level, and seasonal patterns. This visual aid helps put long-term hydrologic trends into perspective, especially when analyzing data spanning several decades. Clicking on a specific body of water, such as Fish Lake in Aurora County, loads the historical dataset for that area, allowing users to view detailed elevation changes. It also includes pop-up markers that display coordinates and the official lake name when a user clicks on the lake location.

The app also features a full-screen Lake Elevation by Year page, designed for those who prefer an uncluttered, maximized view of the time-series line chart. This view removes noise, making year-over-year changes easier to analyze. Looking at that table reveals the historical depth of DANR’s monitoring program. Data has been systematically collected over many years for lake measurements, offering valuable context for long-term watershed responses, climate trends, and lake stability. As lake elevations fluctuate due to precipitation, evaporation, drought cycles, runoff rates, and seasonal changes, these records are crucial for water management, hydrologic modeling, and environmental science.

The app also includes an informational section, such as the Historic Lake Level Data in South Dakota, which provides details on how lake levels are measured and read. DANR notes that most lakes are monitored twice a year in spring and fall. All measurements are referenced to the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD29), ensuring consistency across lakes and over time. However, not all seasonal measurements correspond to a lake's nominal high or low water levels; they are initial elevations taken on specific days. The information panel also explains the Ordinary High-Water Mark, Ordinary Low-Water Mark, and Lake Outlet Elevation, established by the State Water Commission. These benchmarks are used to determine public use boundaries, lake management rules, and water rights. South Dakota: Waterways are considered public highways, and access is available within fifty feet on each side of a waterway from the edge of the bank. The informational sign notes that different rules govern some lakes with high-water marks set before 1985. In some cases, adjoining landowners may retain certain rights to use the water under this statute. The panel directs users to the Water Rights Program for questions about water marks, lake outlets, or property rights.

A final disclaimer notes that, although DANR is "making and publishing these measurements in good faith, it cannot guarantee the absolute accuracy" of all its historical records. Because some measurements were taken several decades ago, variations in equipment, seasonal differences, and recording practices may affect the interpretation of the data.

Overall, the Measured Lake Elevations Map offers an excellent mix of historical data, new visualization tools, and a regulatory perspective. By allowing users to easily review long-term water level records, compare trends across multiple lakes, and analyze hydrological behavior across the state, the system encourages data-driven water management and public understanding of lake dynamics. It also supports research, climate assessment, watershed evaluation, and helps communities, landowners, and policymakers make informed decisions. South Dakota One Call’s application demonstrates South Dakota's commitment to openness, transparency, and responsible environmental stewardship. For those interested in exploring this resource further, follow this link to the South Dakota DANR Data and Mapping Portal to find the Measured Lake Elevations application, which provides access to decades of hydrological history.

References

The Observation Wells Application, available through the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Data and Mapping Portal, offers a comprehensive and interactive platform for exploring groundwater conditions across the state. Designed for both professionals and the public, it provides real-time access to decades of groundwater measurement data collected from observation wells throughout South Dakota. When users open the app, they see a detailed satellite basemap with colorful markers. Each marker represents a specific observation well and is color-coded to indicate the monitoring route it belongs to, such as the Black Hills, Brookings, Pierre, Watertown routes, or other specialized monitoring areas. These routes help identify regional sampling networks and show how well distribution aligns with South Dakota’s hydrologic and geologic features.

The left side of the application features the central search panel. Here, users can refine their well search using parameters such as date, observation well number, section, township, range, county, or aquifer. The date filter allows users to review well with readings recorded before or after a specific date. At the same time, the text-based fields support land survey-style searches common in groundwater and cadastral mapping. Users can also combine multiple search conditions using “And” or “Or” logic, enabling detailed queries for specific environmental studies or reporting needs. A map-based search option adds another layer of functionality: by specifying a distance radius and enabling map-click mode, users can quickly identify wells within a selected distance of any point on the map. This feature is handy for evaluating wells near lakes, agricultural fields, development areas, or groundwater-dependent ecosystems.

When a search is performed, the map updates to highlight wells matching the criteria, and the bottom panel automatically switches to the Results tab. This panel displays a table of key well information, including the observation well ID, USGS ID, township-range-section data, aquifer type, casing elevation, total well depth, casing length, and seasonal monitoring assignment. From this results panel, users can directly access hydrographs, download data records, or open the whole well-specific information window. Clicking a well on the map opens a detailed pop-up with complete metadata, including the well’s alternate name, drilling details, surveyed coordinates, aquifer classification, regulatory comments, and elevation measurements referenced to the top of casing. Some wells include links to lithologic logs, which describe geologic materials encountered during drilling and are vital for understanding hydrogeologic behavior.

The hydrograph tool, available through the pop-up or the Hydrograph tab, is one of the most valuable analytical features of the system. Hydrographs display long-term groundwater level measurements for the chosen well, often spanning decades. Each plotted point represents a water level measurement taken during a site visit. These hydrographs show subtle, long-term changes in groundwater elevation caused by climate variability, seasonal recharge, droughts, floods, agricultural withdrawals, and regional aquifer characteristics. Users can hover over points to see precise measurement values and dates, providing detailed insight into groundwater fluctuations. The Hydrograph tab also presents the same data in a table, listing reading dates, elevations, latitude, longitude, and whether the reading was manually collected. This allows for easy examination of data trends and comparison of measurements across different years.

The Well Data tab expands the available information by providing detailed historical records for each observation well. These records assist researchers in monitoring groundwater behavior, evaluating aquifer health, understanding spatial differences among well clusters, and analyzing the impact of land use or regional climate patterns on groundwater conditions. The data also plays a vital role in water rights documentation, environmental permitting, hydrologic modeling, and long-term resource management. The availability of downloadable data promotes its use in external analysis tools such as GIS platforms, statistical software, or groundwater modeling applications.

On the right side of the application, users will find several map tools that enhance navigation and map-based analysis. Zoom-To tools allow quick switching between map views, while measurement tools help calculate area, distance, and coordinates in units such as acres, miles, or degrees. These tools are invaluable for field mapping, spatial planning, and verifying proximity to features such as rivers, lakes, sections, or county boundaries. The ability to click anywhere on the map to retrieve latitude and longitude further aids in precise location referencing and real-world site investigation.

Together, these components build an intuitive, scientifically sound system that connect users to South Dakota’s groundwater monitoring network. By offering open access to historical and current groundwater data, the Observation Wells Application improves public transparency, aids environmental research, and enhances water management and planning decisions. Whether used by hydrologists studying aquifer behavior, landowners monitoring nearby wells, policymakers assessing long-term water availability, or students learning about groundwater science, the application serves as a vital tool for understanding the complexities of South Dakota’s groundwater resources and the long-term patterns that influence them.

References

One of the most comprehensive mapping tools available today, the Oil and Gas Resources SDGS Interactive Data Map is part of a series of web-based maps provided by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Geological Survey Program. It offers a detailed visualization of geological, hydrological, and natural resource data across the state in an easy-to-use, interactive digital format. When users open the platform, they see a clear display of South Dakota’s county boundaries, providing a structured starting point for exploring data on wells, geological formations, aquifers, seismic events, and oil/gas development in one place, along with related environmental records. The tool is designed for scientists, landowners, educators, and policy experts who require dependable, long-term data to inform decisions on research, planning, and environmental issues.

The Basemap Gallery is located on the left side of the screen. In this gallery, users can choose from various basemaps to better match the map's visual style with their analytical needs. Whether they prefer a 'blueprint'-type terrain view, satellite imagery to support it, terrain surfaces, or maps with enhanced contrast, all basemaps offer different perspectives for interpreting elevation, landforms, hydrologic patterns, and infrastructure. Changing the basemap is especially useful when exploring site accessibility, geological features, or land-use activities around oil and gas locations.

The Map Items Panel is another important part of this system. It displays a list of available data layers that you can toggle on or off to customize the map's appearance. These include Water Rights Observation Wells, Water Quality Analyses, Lithologic Logs, Geophysical Logs, Core and Cuttings, Water Rights Well Completion Reports, Earthquakes, Oil and Gas Data, and Various Geologic Maps. There are also sublayers within these, offering detailed options and the ability to create a map that highlights only the information you need. When all large datasets are active, the map is filled with thousands of points representing decades of geological and hydrological data collected by state agencies. These include well logs, geophysical surveys, oil and gas wells, earthquake epicenters, and other features of South Dakota's subsurface history.

To assist users in interpreting the dense data, the Legend Panel clarifies all map symbols, colors, and labels. These may include colors representing lithologic logging or indicating geophysical readings, categories of earthquake intensity, and symbols that denote oil wells, gas wells, or locations with core samples or geological cuttings. The legend ensures the interface is accessible for users of all technical levels—from practicing geologists to students new to earth science.

The interactive feature of the SDGS map is one of its main strengths. Each point can be clicked to reveal a detailed pop-up with information about that location. Sometimes, this includes aquifer names, well depths, API numbers, permit numbers, lithologic data, water-quality analyses, and drilling details. Users can also zoom directly into a specific area for a closer look at surrounding structures. This interactivity is further improved by the built-in Query tool, which enables more in-depth exploration using multiple search criteria, such as API numbers, well names, permit numbers, lithologic test holes, enhanced recovery unit names, and county IDs. These preset searches help streamline data querying, so you don’t need as much experience as before when conducting targeted research.

It also includes measuring tools and printing capabilities. In the top-right corner, users see a measurement panel that allows them to measure distances, areas, and geographic coordinates directly on the map. This feature is useful for land-use planning, environmental analysis, field engineering, or construction projects. The print panel enables users to generate PDFs and formatted maps with layouts suitable for presentations, reports, or regulatory documentation. Additionally, there is an option to export a side panel, which allows users to highlight specific data points on the map and download related information as needed.

The SDGS Interactive Data Map is an essential resource for groundwater research, hydrologic modeling, contamination studies, oil and gas exploration, geological mapping, engineering assessments, and environmental permits. With records dating back many decades and current interactivity, SDGS connects South Dakota’s geologic and hydrologic data to ensure open public access. Whether they are a scientist studying deep subsurface structures, a landowner mapping water wells on their property, or a student exploring earth science concepts, this portal provides a user-friendly, integrated environment for data exploration.

Conclusion

The Oil & Gas Resources SDGS Interactive Data Map is detailed and precise, enhancing public understanding of natural resources across the state. The forest atlas is built on the International Land Coalition's Land Portal platform and illustrates global land use trends. Providing this information online ensures that the state's geological and water resources are always accessible to users. The full features of the application are available through the SDGs Interactive Data Map on the DANR Data and Mapping Portal.

References

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Data and Mapping Portal serves as a single access point for datasets, interactive GIS applications, and regulatory information from DANR. The Permitted Solid Waste Facilities Dashboard is one of the most informative and user-friendly resources on this portal. Its purpose is to enable users to explore where, what type, and how solid waste facilities permitted across South Dakota operate. It functions as a published, data-driven, interactive, shapefile-based statewide map that allows users to visually and quantitatively explore how different types of waste are managed, how facilities are distributed geographically across counties and cities, and how waste-related infrastructure is mapped across the state.

Upon loading the dashboard, users are immediately shown a map of South Dakota that is strangely detailed and full of colored dots. Each point on this map indicates a solid waste facility permitted to receive waste. The colors of these points are not chosen randomly; instead, they represent the types of waste the facility collects. The system features a variety of different facility types, including coal ash disposal sites, construction debris locations, kiln dust facilities, yard waste collection areas, medical waste processors, regional landfills, petroleum-contaminated soil handlers, restricted-use sites, waste tire systems, transfer stations, and multi-use operators. Facility types are color-coded, so immediately, you can see the different functions of the facilities, making it very easy and intuitive for even non-GIS users to understand.

In addition to visualization, the dashboard includes embedded tools for exploration and analysis. Users can buffer, search for places, and switch the basemap to a style of their choice. It features detailed satellite images, street maps, terrain maps, or a simple bright background with roads and landmarks—all in one application. These visualization tools are handy for studying terrain near a facility, evaluating nearby infrastructure, and analyzing land-use patterns in an area.

At the top of the website, there is a dashboard with robust filters that let you quickly narrow down facilities by city or county. Selecting a town limits the map to facilities within that city, while choosing a county does the same for all facilities in that county. This dynamic filtering feature allows local government officials, environmentalists, and community members to see what types of waste-management facilities are currently operating in their state. It also helps identify potential regional gaps, concentrations of similar facilities, or areas that may need additional resources.

The dashboard includes a category panel on the right side of the map, allowing you to select the types of facilities shown carefully. Users can toggle categories on and off to view only the facilities they are interested in. For instance, if you want to see just yard-waste sites or only regional landfills, you can turn off all other categories with a single click. When managing many categories—such as landfills versus restricted-use facilities—and comparing two or more, this panel provides layered views that are both selective and flexible. This makes the dashboard a powerful tool for visual analysis in environmental planning, waste-stream evaluation, and educational purposes.

Click on any point on the map to display an information box with a brief profile of the facility. This profile typically includes the facility type and waste category, the operating organization, contact name, mailing address, point-of-contact details, and specific sub-classifications relevant to that facility. Seventy-three facility entries also include notes or comments that provide context or operational information. At the top of the information window, a “Zoom To” feature allows users to easily zoom in and center on a selected facility for more detailed location information. This feature can be especially useful in rural areas or when comparing nearby facilities.

Information is provided for each facility, including who operates it, its category, and who can be contacted for official information. For example, if someone chooses a secure facility, they can learn the facility's operator, the county involved, and the names of several key employees. A coal ash facility might list the associated power company, and a yard-waste site may display operators by city. Multi-service sites show combined types (e.g., transfer station/petroleum-contaminated soil handling site), highlighting the full range of their capabilities.

Together, these features create a clear, user-friendly system for navigating the statewide network of approved WMPs. By providing access to both regulatory and operational information, the dashboard enhances the industry's environmental leadership by making it easier for residents, policymakers, researchers, and others interested in understanding how waste is managed in South Dakota. With visual and facility-specific details in one place, the app supports decision-making, environmental compliance, and public awareness. Society is a member-led organization, and the SD Wastewater Information System is a crucial digital resource aligned with South Dakota’s focus on fulfilling environmental health responsibilities and proper waste disposal. Citizens can search the dashboard in the South Dakota DANR Data and Mapping Portal, in the Waste Management Program section, to find all permitted solid waste facilities that are mapped and logged.

References

The map was developed as a GIS application to directly link individuals to legislation regarding illegal dumping and promote citizen awareness of how they can do their part in keeping the environment clean. This online tool offers residents, businesses, and community leaders access to a spatial depiction of recycling center activity via an interactive map interface that lets users search for nearby centers that accept recyclables in categories such as metals, plastics, paper, electronics, and cars. By incorporating Esri’s web mapping capabilities, the platform converts complex environmental data into an intuitive, user-friendly interface that supports both community engagement and sustainable development objectives.

When users open the dashboard, they can see a map of South Dakota, but instead of the usual red dots, green recycling icons appear. The sites are permitted to accumulate, decompose, or recycle recyclable and reusable materials under the state’s environmental regulations. The interface is simple, yet intuitive; users can zoom, pan, and click on a facility icon to view site-specific information. This visual shows the locations of recycling facilities across the state, in urban, rural, and industrial areas.

There are two tools on the left side of the app—Layers and Search. With the Layers feature, users can view State and Local Roads on the map, along with imagery or topographic layers to improve visualization and spatial understanding. Users can also refine their search by entering the Facility Name, City, County, or Accepted Material Type in the Search panel. This is especially useful for residents and communities seeking local recycling centers or agencies to which they can donate their waste materials. By simply entering search criteria, users can easily generate a list of nearby suitable waste treatment facilities, making it convenient and accessible.

For instance, selecting Brookings County automatically zooms the map to locations in and around Brookings. Among other features, this helps to prevent users from inadvertently leaving the area they are interested in. The interactive table below the map automatically refreshes with the name, address, and city for each facility, along with the materials they accept. The table can even be dynamically extended, sorted, or collapsed to complement your workspace and give you more room to focus on the information that matters. This function improves data clarity and comparison between different facilities.

Clicking any green icon opens a pop-up window with specific information for that site, including the facility name, location, phone number, and materials they accept. Among other examples, the Brookings City Landfill accepts yard and tree waste, white goods, and tires; Cook’s Wastepaper and Recycling processes aluminum cans, corrugated cardboard, and mixed paper. The Goodwill of the Great Plains transfer station accepts electronic waste (including computers, monitors, printers, and scanners). At the same time, Wes’s Auto Salvage is open for business, accepting vehicles or vehicle parts for processing into metal. Each record has a “Zoom to” option that automatically centers the map on the selected facility, facilitating navigation and closer spatial examination.

The map also has an interactive ‘results’ section that displays all facility details in the same view or allows users to hide results and see a cleaner map layout. The tool integrates contact details and an accepted materials list for each facility, and aims to inform householders, recycling companies, and disposal authorities. This option is advantageous for estimating the geographic distribution of recycling and for tracking collections to monitor diversion or recovery trends at the state level.

On a larger level, the map shows just where recycling facilities are located throughout South Dakota and highlights trends in our management of environmental resources. Facilities are concentrated in the largest cities—Rapid City, Brookings, and Sioux Falls—suggesting that urban and semi-urban areas serve as “material recovery” hubs. Population appears to be a factor, but also an aspect of infrastructure (i.e., the location of transportation routes and the organization of garbage collection). And the less common distributed locations in western and rural areas also suggest a potential need to expand recycling access and improve waste management networks in less-populated counties.

From a planning and policy perspective, the Recycling Facilities Map can serve as a decision-making tool for environmental agencies and local governments. It provides valuable spatial information that can be used to identify areas with limited coverage, plan new collection sites, or evaluate the effectiveness of current recycling programs. Additionally, it supports South Dakota’s broader efforts to meet environmental and sustainability goals by enabling data-driven decisions and encouraging greater public participation in recycling.

Through mobilizing geospatial representation and open-access data, the Recycling Facilities Map demonstrates how GIS can further promote local sustainability and environmental health. It provides users with a tool to locate nearby recycling centers and visualize waste management infrastructure across the state through graphical analysis. This map aligns with DANR’s mission to promote a cleaner and more sustainable South Dakota by making real-time, destination-specific information accessible to communities, researchers, and decision-makers.

In summary, the Recycling Facilities Map is a modern, user-friendly solution for exchanging environmental data on waste resources. Bridging the gap between data availability and public utility, the platform enables consumers to make informed, eco-friendly choices about where and how to recycle. By combining spatial analysis, real-world data, and interactive design, this platform once again demonstrates the potential of GIS technology to promote environmental stewardship, inform policymakers, and inspire community action toward a cleaner, more sustainable planet.

References

The Regulated Air Quality Facilities Map is an interactive, GIS-based map application available through the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Data and Mapping Portal. It allows users to view all permitted air quality facilities across the state. This web-based application, developed by the South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), enables users to review air emission sources statewide, verify permitted operations, and observe environmental impacts at local to regional levels. Its design promotes environmental transparency, regulatory oversight, and public accountability by combining geospatial data with official compliance documentation.

When you open the application, it greets you with a split-screen view. On the right side of the screen is an interactive map that lets users view current and historical facility locations at varying zoom levels. On the left is the legend and layer controls that allow users to choose which data appears on the map and how it is styled. Using color-coded symbols, air quality permits are classified and distinguished by type. Yellow dots indicate Title V-permitted facilities, which emit more than 100 tons of regulated air pollutants per year and fall into specific source categories. Green dots represent Minor Operating Permits, applicable to operations with smaller emissions. Orange dots are area sources, typically smaller operations that may collectively affect local air quality. This clear representation of data makes it easy to see which facilities are emitting and the levels of those emissions.

The base map is powered by high-resolution satellite imagery from Esri, HERE, and Garmin, providing a clear geographic view of every facility. Users can zoom, pan, and move the map to explore different cities, industrial areas, or environmental locations. They can easily find specific facilities by name, ID number, or address using a search bar, enabling quick, accurate access to spatial and regulatory data. At the bottom of the map, an interactive table shows detailed information about each facility: Facility ID, Name, Address, and City. This table is linked to the map: clicking a record highlights its corresponding point on the map; similarly, clicking a point on the map scrolls to that entry in the table.

There is a pop-up window for each facility point with regulatory data. This includes information such as facility ID, name, address, PLSS coordinates (showing their location), and a string of numbers indicating which federal regulations apply. For example, selecting Gillens Station in White River shows that the area falls under 40 CFR Part 63, Subpart CCCCCC, which relates to gasoline dispensing facilities. Additionally, the pop-up buttons allow users to directly download compliance PDFs, such as the Initial Notification of Compliance Status. These records—all maintained by DANR’s Air Quality Program—include essential operational details, such as emission limits, vapor recovery, spill control, and throughput data. This link between spatial data and official compliance reports highlights the transparency and accountability built into DANR’s digital framework.

One of the most valuable features of this map is its layer control panel on the left. Users can switch between different datasets, such as City Limits, Natural Events Action Plan Control Areas, and Air Quality View layers, to enhance contextual understanding. These layers help visualize spatial relationships among industrial development, environmental sensitivity, and proximity to populations. For example, the NR34 Air Quality View layer combines information from the 1996 Natural Events Action Plan and displays locations affected by dust storms or particulates. This layered visualization allows users to compare facility concentrations with urban areas, natural parks, or discussion zones for atmospheric disturbances.

Aside from its presentation, the Regulated Facilities Map is a decision-support system for environmental management. The interface could allow a regulator to zoom in on clusters of high-emission facilities, check compliance with federal and state air quality regulations, and schedule inspections. Researchers and environmental scientists can download spatial datasets to study long-term trends in emissions, pollutant dispersion, and environmental justice issues. The public could explore the map to see how industrial activity impacts nearby communities and local air quality.

By integrating geospatial technology and regulatory data, the Regulated Air Quality Facilities Map shows how modern GIS can support environmental policy. It converts scientific monitoring data into a clear, interactive format, connecting science with understanding. Through this system, DANR not only meets regulatory reporting requirements but also promotes an open-data culture, allowing citizens, planners, and policymakers to act on South Dakota's air resources.

The portal is part of a broader state effort to use digital mapping to enhance environmental transparency and sustainability. By providing a comprehensive view of emission sources, compliance documents, and contextual land data, the Regulated Air Quality Facilities Map is essential for monitoring environmental health in South Dakota. This enables informed decisions regarding mitigation strategies and responsible management of air resources for future generations.

References

The South Dakota Surface Water Quality Standards dashboard is a tool for overseeing how laws implementing the federal Clean Water Act operate in the state, sharing, and enforcing them. Specifically, it manages the state’s waterways, including lakes, rivers, and streams, to ensure they are safe for public use, promote overall health and cleanliness, and are supportive and protective of their ecosystems. In 1972, almost all states finalized water quality requirements under the Clean Water Act. In South Dakota, these requirements are included in ARSD 74:51, the Administrative Rules of South Dakota. As shown by this document, the dashboard’s content and display specifics are well-defined. The South Dakota interactive map is appropriately framed, with lakes, streams, and impairment status representing primary layers as the user displays the assessed point. The user can easily zoom in by touch to focus on a particular body or pan across the state to see larger maps. Layer Lakes depicts each distinct water body in the state, providing an idea of water body density; Layer Streams reveals the primary rivers in South Dakota as well as their tributaries, providing a thorough view of the state’s hydrograph; and Impairment Status regions Impairment status is the most essential layer and consists of a color-coded, shaded megaregion showing which water bodies are clean and which are not. Impaired water bodies are colored red; these are water bodies that do not fulfill specifications and require more investigation, mitigation, reclamation, or legislation. This distinction enables policymakers, researchers, and the public to identify areas of concern quickly.

In addition to the interactive map, dashboard users may access key information regarding water quality standards. In other words, these standards outline the activities that can be conducted in various types of water bodies, such as swimming, fishing, or protecting sources of irrigation or drinking water for the public. For example, an effort to maintain a river segment for fishing and fish habitat may need only low levels of nutrients, pathogens, or heavy metals to be present. The criteria are both narrative and numeric, designed to protect or enhance water quality. Amount-based benchmarks target specific measurements, such as levels of nitrogen or phosphorus or amounts of dissolved oxygen. Narrative standards describe more general environmental conditions, like inhibiting algal blooms or preserving fish habitats. Collectively, these standards direct enforcement and offer baselines of data to be monitored.

One of the dashboard's most distinctive features is its basemap gallery, which enables users to switch between different styles, including imagery, topography, and human geography. This really opens the usability of the dashboard. For instance, personnel generating technical reports might select a topographic view to visualize terrain features, or researchers might opt for high-resolution images to examine nearby land-use patterns. The dashboard’s versatility makes it attractive to a wide array of users, including government officials, environmental scientists, academic researchers, advocacy organizations, and the public.

The South Dakota Surface Water Quality Standards Dashboard is available to help manage environmental concerns and resources. It integrates fiscal standards with live data and maps for state agencies to meet federal laws. It contributes to transparency by reporting to the citizens. The fact that the state includes data about impaired water bodies demonstrates an effort at accountability. It provides a sense of where problems may need to be addressed and an impetus for action.

The dashboard is an example of how policy, science, and technology can collaborate to optimize resource utilization. It’s a user-friendly tool that provides a comprehensive overview of South Dakota’s surface water quality in accordance with its obligations under the federal Clean Water Act and state administrative rules. With interactive maps, transparent visualizations of impairment status, and direct links to regulatory standards, users can access the information needed to understand, track, and respond to water quality concerns. In the end, this tool is contributing to a larger effort to protect our water resources, ultimately benefiting the overall ecological health and well-being of South Dakotans today and for generations to come.

References

The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has created a map service called the Tanks and via the provided web link, combines hazardous-material Spills Map. This geospatial tool, available through the provided web link, combines hazardous material management rules and environmental data for the state. It offers a central platform for viewing and searching spill incidents, Tier II facilities, Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facilities, and regulated tank sites. The platform supports environmental monitoring, emergency response planning, and policy making to protect human health and natural resources.

The Interactive Dashboard Interactive Map offers access to environmental event data across South Dakota. It is highly versatile, enabling users to zoom in on specific areas and search for facilities using various criteria, such as county, city, zip code, facility name, operator, or ID number. Users can also conduct radius-based analysis to identify environmental risks near sensitive sites such as schools, hospitals, and water bodies. The map offers multiple basemap options, including satellite imagery and street views, to cater to diverse user needs.

A prominent layer on the map is the spill reports dataset, documenting instances of environmental releases. These records are marked by yellow triangles, making it easy to spot reported spills across the state. This layer is especially important for regulators and emergency responders, as it highlights possible contamination sites and helps prioritize response efforts during environmental emergencies.

Third, the next level is the Tier II infrastructure layer, marked with red circles. EPCRA requires facilities to disclose their storage of hazardous chemicals. This dataset provides communities with vital details about the locations of toxic, chemical, carcinogenic, and other hazardous materials. By clicking on each site, users can view detailed information, including the facility's name, address, and operational status, which can be exported for compliance reports or analysis.

The map also identifies Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) facilities, which are represented by green diamonds. The facilities must report annually on the management of toxic chemicals at their site, including the amount released into the air, water, or onto land. Regulators and the public can get important information from analyses of TRI data about patterns of industrial pollution, where emissions are occurring, and what their potential impacts might be in nearby ecosystems and communities.

The tank facilities layer also displays information about AST sites and USTs, represented by blue and orange symbols, respectively. Since multiple facilities can be present in a minority census tract, users can filter by tank type (AST or UST) and status (active, inactive, or both). This feature enables users to analyze statewide fuel and chemical storage systems, which are crucial for groundwater protection, as leaks from older or unauthorized tanks pose a significant risk. With over 5,000 registered tank facilities, this layer provides one of the highest-quality datasets in the dashboard.

Beyond visualization, the dashboard features a results panel that shows tabular data for selected facilities. This includes fields like facility ID, name, operator, address, city, county, and system type. These results can be downloaded directly, providing researchers, consultants, and policymakers with extensive options for environmental assessments or compliance checks. The system enables both interactive exploration and formal reporting by integrating spatial and tabular data.

The legend panel enhances the tool's user-friendliness by explaining the meanings of the color-coded symbols on the map. This allows users to understand the information, regardless of their technical background, easily. The map, query filter, legend, and results panels work together to create a system that is accessible to the public while providing environmental professionals with the detailed data they need.

In conclusion, the Tanks, Spills, and Environmental Events Map is an excellent tool for monitoring environmental conditions in South Dakota. By consolidating various data sets into a single geospatial platform, it provides a clear overview of the locations of regulated facilities, pollution incidents, and potential environmental threats. The application supports regulatory compliance, emergency preparedness, transparency, and long-term environmental protection. Its visual, spatial, interactive search, and data download options make it valuable for both government agencies and the public by promoting environmental responsibility and community safety.

References

The DANR Water Quality Monitoring Access Portal is a vital tool provided by SDDANR to support long-term monitoring, assessment, and protection of South Dakota's surface waters. Designed to improve transparency and public access to scientific data, the portal allows users to query a wide network of monitoring sites across lakes, rivers, and streams in South Dakota. The platform integrates chemical sampling, biological assessments, and waterbody support status information to help state and federal agencies, analysts, researchers, students, and the public understand how well their waters meet water quality standards over time.

When users open the app, they see a detailed satellite aerial basemap of South Dakota, overlaid with bright yellow dots representing surface-water monitoring stations. These stations measure various water quality parameters, including physical and chemical data related to environmental conditions and pollution sources. Each point on the map is interactive. Clicking on a station opens a ‘popup’ showing the network station ID (each site has a unique number), the type of sampling—such as chemical testing, fish tissue analysis, or citizen science observations—the waterbody where the station is located, with examples like Big Sioux River and Big Stone Lake. The popup is linked directly to raw monitoring files, reports on support status, and TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) assessment reports. These documents help users understand historical changes in conditions, identify known pollutants of concern, and review management strategies that have been implemented.

A legend panel on the right side of the interface provides descriptions of the symbols shown on the map. The yellow points represent chemical monitoring sites, the light green points indicate fish tissue contamination sites, and the orange points show citizen contributions to the monitoring network. In addition to the graphical point data, streams and lakes are represented by color based on their support status for the intended beneficial uses (recreation, irrigation, aquatic life). Waterbodies are displayed in blue with bubbles when water quality is assessed as “supporting,” and in red if they are not supporting due to impairments found during sampling and assessments. With this color-coded system in place, users can easily understand the relative environmental health of various waterbodies.

Layers – The template works well when you enable or disable any of the 12 layers. These layers include highways, interstates, county lines, hydrologic regions, and lake outlines. Additionally, by toggling layers on and off, users can locate monitoring sites within a larger geographic context, see watershed boundary extents, and understand land use relationships that could affect water quality. Getting to sites is easy with the search bar on the left side of your screen. With three search options, users can find data by station ID, waterbody name, or keyword.

Additionally, the system allows interaction with stream and lake polygons. Selecting a stream or lake on the map displays information about that waterbody, including ID number, assessment unit size, and designated-use support status. These pop-ups also include links to other resources for more detailed information, such as the Water Quality Dashboard, support status reports, and monitoring downloads. This networked data setup enables easy transition between general map views, detailed monitoring results, and statewide assessment reports. As a result, users gain a comprehensive understanding of waterbody performance and environmental trends.

By integrating chemical sampling, field observations, geospatial mapping, and public-access tools, the portal enables data-driven decision-making across multiple aspects. Natural resource researchers utilize the portal to investigate pollutant trends, assess environmental risks, and access the impact of restoration efforts. Local governments use the information to guide land-use planning and protect watersheds. Residents and teachers use the system to educate themselves about local lakes and rivers, building awareness of and advocacy for their environment. Since the information directly informs Clean Water Act compliance, the portal also serves as an important tool in keeping water quality assessments open and available to the public.

The DANR Water Quality Monitoring Access Portal is a valuable tool for examining environmental conditions, tracking long-term water quality trends, and understanding how natural and human activities impact South Dakota’s water system. Its interactive features, extensive datasets, and easy-to-use design make it an essential resource for policymakers, researchers, and water stewards across the state. Users can explore these datasets through the DANR Mapping Portal by clicking on the Water Quality Monitoring Access Map and can also investigate California’s environmental data infrastructure in greater detail.

References

The Water Well Completion Reports Dashboard, provided by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) Data and Mapping Portal, serves as a central location where users can interactively access detailed water-well information for the state. This application is designed to promote transparency and public access to technical studies and information about groundwater resources, well construction, and water supply planning. When opening the dashboard, users are presented with a map interface covering South Dakota and neighboring states. Developed in Markdown, the map serves as the application's framework, allowing users to view well locations across the state or zoom into local neighborhoods, farms, and townships.

On the left side of the screen, in the search panel, you'll find various options to filter well records. The Township-Range-Section search is a key feature that sets this site apart—it helps users locate wells using the Public Land Survey System. By utilizing a township and range grid, this system remains an essential reference for land ownership maps, agricultural development plans, and water rights surveys throughout South Dakota. Landowners, oil drillers, researchers, and other government personnel can search for specific points on the map based on township-and-range or section numbers. Users can also search for wells by county, and when they do, the data is limited to wells within that county.

The Ownership box in the search panel offers more detailed information. Here, you can enter a last name or business name; I found wells being drilled for individuals, farms, corporations, or industrial sites. This tool can be helpful for landowners wanting to find well logs for their property, as well as for consultants conducting groundwater assessments or environmental reviews. Below Ditto, the Well Information box allows users to search for wells based on total depth, well type, driller, and date completed. These options enable further analysis by allowing users to find wells within specific time frames, drilled by companies in the county or region, or for particular purposes (e.g., domestic, municipal, irrigation, test, and industrial wells).

The map updates automatically when you enter search criteria. Like Aurora County, the map might show hundreds of wells clustered together. Each well appears as a yellow point, clearly indicating its location. These visual patterns provide valuable insights into groundwater development, agricultural growth, and water supply distribution for homes or industry in South Dakota. Below the network map, a results table automatically refreshes to show all wells that match the user's specified criteria. The table includes key details such as well owner, type, township/range/section, completion date, and total depth. It also features improved web page performance and the ability to download PDF well logs directly. “This allows the dashboard to be more than just an exploratory tool; it is also a storage location for official documentation needed for permitting, compliance, engineering design, hydrogeologic studies, and property assessment.”

A single well summary opens when clicking any point on the map. A pop-up displays the owner’s name, business name, county, township, range, section (location), well type—e.g., gas or oil; latitude/longitude; driller license number; completion date; permit number; and depth. This high-resolution detail provides both the geographical context and technical construction information users need. The pop-up also includes a “Zoom To” button, which re-centers the map directly on the well—allowing a closer view of nearby land use, roads, fields, or subdivisions. In some cases, satellite imagery replaces aerial imagery, offering more insight into the environment around the well.

Filtering the results table with export options by product. Logged-in users can view references to cases and statutes, which can be navigated within the application. The dashboard is very comprehensive for any professional working with extensive well data, including creating reports, preparing for fieldwork programs, conducting academic research, writing case studies, developing groundwater models, and preparing regulatory submissions. Along with user-friendly search tools, the dashboard links to directories for licensed water well drillers and pump installers. These sections allow individuals to search for licensed professionals by company name, address, license number, and contact details. They also feature buttons to filter active, inactive, or all licenses, helping users confirm if the state currently authorizes the company or individual, they want to hire to conduct drilling or pump installation work. This promotes accountability and public trust in the quality of dug well construction.

The map, filters, table, and downloadable reports create a comprehensive system for accessing South Dakota’s well-log data. The dashboard is crucial for hydrological studies, groundwater resource management, environmental assessments, and land development. It enables rural residents to review the history of wells on their properties, assists drillers and consultants in researching neighboring construction records, supports agencies in planning water resource management, and provides public access to technical information about groundwater infrastructure. Through this online tool, DANR continues to provide open access to years of well-completion data and empowers users with information that demonstrates the state’s commitment to public service, environmental awareness, and informed decision-making.

References

Introduction

The Waterbodies Eligible under the Buffer Bill is a custom application created by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). It helps users locate riparian buffer strips required by state law. Based on Senate Bill 66 (SB 66), or the Buffer Strip Bill, it promotes water quality by encouraging the planting of vegetated buffer strips along streams, rivers, and lakes. These strips reduce nutrient runoff, filter pollutants, prevent erosion, and protect aquatic ecosystems—with the added benefit of property tax breaks for compliant farmers. This dashboard combines GIS with legal and administrative data to provide fully interactive, countywide access. It enables easy review, planning, and waiver processes for all counties and tributaries in South Dakota. For landowners and conservation professionals, this tool helps identify potential watercourse overlaps between properties, ensuring accurate application of the Buffer Bill standards.

Purpose and Legal Context

Buffer strip legislation in South Dakota is essential for balancing agriculture and conservation. It requires property owners to retain vegetation buffers along specific streams and lakes to reduce runoff of sediment, phosphorus, and nitrogen, which can lead to algal blooms and degraded water quality. Property tax incentives encourage landowners to maintain these buffers, creating economic motivation for voluntary participation. This dashboard serves as the primary public platform for this infrastructure. It is a database that connects the official state list of impaired waters (refer to Administrative Rules of South Dakota, or ARSD) with interactive maps, allowing farmers, ranchers, local governments, and conservation planners to quickly see if the law covers a particular lake or stream segment.

Dashboard Overview

When users load the dashboard, they see a map of South Dakota with counties outlined. Each county serves as a starting point to learn more about the eligible water bodies in that area. This simplifies the process for landowners and local officials, who often search by county. The Basemap Gallery offers various views, including topographic, imagery, and modern antique maps, giving users flexible options to analyze their data visually. Map drawing tools allow users to mark, highlight, or annotate features directly on the map, which is especially useful for conservation planners marking buffer zones or property owners drawing tentative boundaries. Measurement tools help calculate distances and areas, making it easier to determine buffer widths or the extent of affected watercourses. Print and export options enable maps to be printed or exported as drawings or PDFs, making them suitable for presentations, permit applications, or local planning meetings.

County-Level Access and Reports

A valuable feature of the dashboard is a pop-up that allows for county-specific searches. When a county is selected, a window appears with direct links to PDF maps showing which streams and lakes in that area are open. For example, choosing Perkins County provides links to the Map of Eligible Streams, which highlights streams such as the North Fork Grand River, Rabbit Creek, and South Fork Grand River, with clear start and end points. The Eligible Lakes Map identifies water bodies, such as Shade Hill Reservoir, Ada Dam, and Johnson Lake, where people can fish for accessible species. Alongside these dynamic maps, detailed descriptions of each stream segment and lake are available, making it easy for anglers to confirm accessible fishing spots. The maps feature simple visuals and organize standard data for easy understanding.

Supporting Resources and Legal Links

The dashboard: The main “dashboard” of the report, which also includes a panel with relevant ‘highlights’ and links to key supporting documents.

These citations will allow the user not only to view maps but also to access the regulations and statutes that make up the Buffer Bill. This link is essential for harmonization, compliance, and transparency.

Professional Applications

The Waterbodies Eligible under the Buffer Bill dashboard serves various professional users: farmland owners, such as farmers and ranchers, can utilize this tool to identify areas of their land that overlap with streams or lakes eligible for buffer zones, which may offer property tax benefits. Conservation planners and NGOs can use the dashboard to help watershed organizations and conservation districts prioritize buffer zones, plan outreach efforts, and ensure compliance with water quality initiatives. Local municipalities depend on the dashboard for planning, zoning, and permit review related to buffer zone requirements. Furthermore, policy analysts and researchers can analyze spatial and administrative data, evaluate the Buffer Bill’s impact, monitor adoption trends, and track water quality improvements over time.

Conclusion

Our Waterbodies Eligible under the Buffer Bill dashboard is more than just a map-it functions as a decision-support tool that combines law, land use, and conservation practices. The platform serves various stakeholders involved in sustainable water management by offering county-level data, downloadable reports, GIS tools, and direct legal references. This resource helps South Dakota landowners understand the Buffer Strip Bill and promotes efforts to protect surface water quality for future generations. Its integration of spatial data and legislative details enhances transparency and utility, enabling users to make informed decisions at the farm, county, and state levels.

References

Introduction

SDFIS serves as a decision-support system for flood management along the Big Sioux River, leveraging extensive flood data from the basin. Covering over 8,400 square miles and serving more than 320,000 residents, it integrates hydrological, meteorological, and community data into an interactive map. This system enables emergency managers, engineers, city planners, and environmental consultants to assess risks, forecast floods, and develop strategies to protect communities and infrastructure.

Dashboard Overview

In the SDFIS dashboard, when logged in, users view a map with the boundary of the Big Sioux River watershed. They are presented with specific summary information, such as the total land area or the population served. The dashboard provides real-time river conditions, flood forecasts, inundation maps, stream gauge data, rainfall overlays, and scenario modeling tools, serving as a single access point for this information. This analysis has drawn on emergency responses and demonstrated that they can lead to the worst outcomes when long-term planning is needed.

Key Features

Flood Conditions vs. Flood Forecasts

There is a given option on the right panel to switch between flood conditions and forecasts. Solid green dots are the most recent real-time data from gauges. Forecast layers display expected water levels and projections of how the river will appear over the next few days.

Steam Gauge Integration

The dashboard contains monitoring sites from the USGS, SD DANR, and MN-DNR. Clicking a gauge takes you to real-time water levels, flow rates, and historical data that can serve as useful benchmarks for comparing today’s hydrologic conditions.

Community Flood Mapping

We provide personalized flooding maps for municipalities, including Brookings, Dell Rapids, Sioux Falls, and North Sioux City. These maps are a rich source of information that will significantly assist highway and emergency officials when flooding occurs.

Scenario Modeling

User-defined flood scenarios with specific peak flows, durations, and tributary inflows. For example, when peak flows at Six Mile Creek in Watertown are adjusted, the new flood areas are displayed automatically. A hydrograph is a graph that displays water-level predictions, enabling emergency simulations and infrastructure planning.

Missouri River Integration

The Missouri River data, Gavins Point Dam releases, and Akron inflows are available in the North Sioux City Module. This is crucial for interpreting complex multi-river flood behavior and associated impacts on downstream communities.

Rainfall Data and Predictions

The system displays precipitation, including the current rainfall amount, the daily cumulative total, and the forecast. This feature links rainfall events and flooding results to provide a comprehensive view of hydrological conditions.

Professional Applications

Professional users highly value the Big Sioux River Flood Information System: Emergency Management, as emergency response coordinators can plan evacuations, close access roads, and allocate resources using real-time alerts and flood forecasts. Urban and Regional Planning: Municipalities can integrate flood zone models into their zoning bylaws, subdivision plans, and infrastructure standards to enhance flood resilience. Engineering and Hydrologic Analysis: Engineers utilize scenario modeling to simulate various discharge scenarios and evaluate the durability of bridges, levels, and flood-control structures. Environmental Consulting: Consultants performing risk assessments or environmental impact studies can make more credible recommendations by leveraging stream, rainfall, and scenario data.

Conclusion

The Big Sioux River Flood Information System is a state-owned property of the State of South Dakota, providing timely, practical, and easily accessible information to partner organizations, agencies, and the public. It combines real-time data, forecast models, hypothetical scenario simulations, and specialized mapping to develop an ultimate resource for understanding flood hazards and identifying ways to reduce their risk. The methodology is applicable in various areas, including emergency response, infrastructure planning and management, environmental consulting and analysis, and regional policymaking. Lives must be saved, and this approach must not result in property damage.

References

The South Dakota Geological Survey Program (Geo-Survey) oversees a strategic initiative for the Statewide Groundwater Quality Monitoring Network, managed by SDDANR. Its primary goal is to consistently monitor, analyze, and understand shallow groundwater throughout the state. Groundwater is a crucial natural resource in South Dakota, used for drinking water, agriculture, and industry. The new dashboard enhances transparency by providing professionals across various fields with access to information, facilitating effective management. While groundwater monitoring in South Dakota is not new, the interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) dashboard now allows users to access decades of field data with just a few clicks and keystrokes. It enables users to explore data visually and contextualize it easily by shifting from a broad view of statewide aquifers to detailed, site-specific records. The digital framework captures both spatial and temporal aspects of water quality.

Monitoring Network Overview

The network consists of 144 observation wells across 25 aquifers in South Dakota. Each well supplies high-quality groundwater data, supporting local assessments and statewide trend monitoring. On the map, wells are marked with colored points: red for active sites and yellow for inactive sites. This visual distinction allows users to identify the extent of current monitoring, gaps easily, and previously covered areas. The aquifers differ in size and significance; larger ones, such as the Big Sioux Aquifer, provide substantial groundwater to cities and farms, while smaller systems, such as Rapid Creek and Skunk Creek, serve local communities. This range helps us understand the types of groundwater used in different geologies, enabling us to evaluate the overall condition of water resources across the state.

Dashboard Features

On the dashboard, you'll find a range of user-friendly tools and professional options.

Basemap Gallery

Users can select from a variety of background map styles, including topographic, satellite, and street maps. This versatility is crucial for integrating groundwater data with other environmental or land-use information. For instance, topographical layers help visualize recharge zones and surface water interactions, while satellite images reveal land cover and agricultural activities near wells.

Layer List & Legend

Toggle aquifer boundaries, well status, and monitoring features on or off. The legend is color-coded, allowing you to quickly identify data layers and easily navigate even when multiple layers are visible.

User Pop-Ups

When users click a well, they see a pop-up containing important identifying information, operational status, and actionable links to additional resources. Some of these links are downloads, including figures, statistical summaries, and well diagrams, helping readers gain a deeper understanding of the long-term datasets without leaving the platform.

Chemical analyses

These reports provide a comprehensive review of groundwater chemistry, including primary and minor ions, as well as nutrients such as nitrates, nitrites, and phosphorus. They also include information on trace metals like arsenic, lead, and copper, as well as total dissolved solids and radioactive elements. Some studies even detail the presence of pesticides. This extensive dataset enables professionals to evaluate contamination risks, monitor the impact of agriculture, and address public health concerns.

County and Aquifer Tables

The dashboard features tables that analyze groundwater data by county and aquifer, along with well data. These tables provide summary statistics, well counts, location details, and a download link for reports.

Measurement and Print Tools

Clearly, this tool is perfect for hydrologists or planners who need to determine aquifer size (by measuring distance across the watershed) or estimate how far a potential contaminant might travel. Additionally, users can export custom maps and tables as high-resolution PDFs or other formats to create professional reports and presentations using the print feature.

Professional Applications

The Network is valuable to many professionals. Hydrologists and geologists rely on the platform for baseline data to model aquifer recharge, track contamination plumes, and understand how water quality changes over time. Agricultural managers use data to monitor nitrate levels and estimate the impact of fertilizer on groundwater. City planners utilize aquifer data to evaluate potential development sites, worried that new projects could threaten nearby water supplies. Public health officials also employ chemical monitoring (such as ultratrace or water analysis for low-metal content) to determine if drinking water sources are contaminated with arsenic, lead, or pesticides. It also assists in regulatory compliance. Environmental consultants may analyze groundwater data for impact assessments, permit applications, or cleanup plans. The decades-long well data record provides solid evidence for legal, environmental, and planning documents.

Conclusion

The Statewide Groundwater Quality Monitoring Network is more than just a mapping program database; it's a comprehensive decision-making tool. It integrates spatial representation, statistical modeling, and historical data into a single platform. It provides statewide coverage while delivering detailed site-specific information through the connection of 144 monitoring wells across 25 aquifers. Its extensive hydrogeological and hydraulic features are designed for professionals who require an in-depth understanding of groundwater behavior. The dashboard allows users to monitor current conditions and trends, supporting the sustainable management of South Dakota’s most valuable natural resources. For those working in various fields, it means groundwater decisions are based on informed, transparent science.

References

Acknowledgement

These materials were developed through the Bridging Community Insights and Solutions in Water Resource Management: A Pathway to Water Resources Programming in South Dakota project team. Members include: Sushant Mehan, Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Water Resource Engineer Specialist; Peggy Schlechter, SDSU Extension Community Vitality Program Director; Kellie Kolb, SDSU Extension Community Vitality Field Specialist; Jeremiah Bergstrom, SDSU Lecturer; Robert Dalton, SDSU Assistant Professor; and Venkata Bharath Kumar Derangula, SDSU Graduate Student in the Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences.

Water For All

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