Gov. Rhoden Cuts Ribbon on Two Major Firefighting Investments

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 20, 2026

Contact: Josie Harms

Gov. Rhoden Cuts Ribbon on Two Major Firefighting Investments

PIERRE, S.D. - Today, Governor Larry Rhoden helped cut the ribbon on two major new investments in South Dakota Wildland Fire. These investments in new, better facilities in Hot Springs and Rapid City display major support for firefighters and fire safety.

"Our firefighters play a key role in keeping our state strong, safe, and free. They deserve proper equipment and facilities so they are prepared for the dangers they face every day," said Governor Larry Rhoden. "These new facilities will provide the support our firefighters need to do their jobs well and keep South Dakotans safe."

This past session, Governor Rhoden also signed six actions directly supporting firefighters:

• SB 68 provides $2.65 million for costs of suppression of wildfires impacting the state;
• SB 136 provides $5 million for grants for personal protective equipment (PPE) for volunteer firefighters;
• HB 1001 improves controlled burning to lower fuel loads;
• HB 1002 increases the meal cost allowance for Wildland Firefighters;
• HB 1326 appropriates $160,000 for an East River Fire Management Office; and
• HB 1326 appropriates $435,000 in general funds for South Dakota Wildland Fire Operations.

You can find photos from the Rapid City Wildland Fire ribbon cutting ceremony here and here. Governor Rhoden cut the ribbon with an ax.

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