Public News Service

During what is known as the Medicaid post-pandemic

Thursday, April 18, 2024

Report: SD Medicaid expansion enrollment remains low

Last year's Medicaid expansion in South Dakota increased eligibility to another 51,000 adults but a new report showed among people across the state wh…

In a 2022 South Dakota News Watch poll, 79% of South Dakota voters said they think the state tax on groceries should be lowered or repealed. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, April 16, 2024

Measure to end sales tax on groceries could go to SD voters

South Dakotans face high prices at the grocery store and some are working to ease the burden. A new report from the Federal Trade Commission finds …

Legislative supporters say had South Dakota taken part in a new federally funded summer meal program for low-income families, an estimated 54,000 children around the state would have benefited. (Adobe Stock)

Despite setbacks, SD coalition keeps pushing for childhood nutrition access

It's been an uphill battle for childhood nutrition advocates to advance meal access policies in the South Dakota Legislature. However, organizers say …

According to South Dakota Health Department data, WIC provides healthy foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding counseling for more than 13,000 participants, including 1,600 pregnant and postpartum individuals. (Adobe Stock)

SD boosts outreach for WIC participation

South Dakota health leaders have said it can be a challenge to reach people eligible for a long-standing nutrition assistance program for at-risk new …

An upcoming event in South Dakota, centered around food sovereignty, aims to help Native American chefs, community leaders and others share traditional and modern ideas about expanding food systems. (Adobe Stock)

SD Summit: Creating More Pathways for Indigenous Food Sovereignty

As food-sovereignty efforts continue among Native American tribes, a South Dakota organization is bringing together stakeholders for a key …

Organizers behind a community-driven approach in South Dakota to prevent child maltreatment say residents volunteering as tutors can be one way to provide much-needed stability for at-risk youth. (Adobe Stock)

SD Sees Growth with Community Approach to Prevent Child Maltreatment

The federal COVID-19 public health emergency may be over, but there is lingering concern about the mental state of children. In South Dakota…

In findings compiled by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, the average annual cost of care for one child in the U.S. was $10,600 in 2021, one-tenth of a couple's average income, and more than one-third of a <br />single parent's income. (Adobe Stock)

Child Care Access Hovers Over SD Child Well-Being Report

An annual report measuring child well-being in the U.S. said several benchmarks have worsened overall. States like South Dakota fared better in the …

In the past year, consumers saw the biggest inflation hike in 40 years, which took a bite out of grocery budgets. (Adobe Stock)

SD Enters Debate Mode on Grocery Tax Repeal

A South Dakota legislative committee has begun discussions on a plan to repeal the state's grocery tax. It has been a politically divisive issue …

To avoid waste and illness, people involved with distribution of food donations say it's best to give items that are not damaged and are in their original packaging. (Adobe Stock)

SD Food Shelf Shares Ways to Make Impactful Donations

This month, Congress gave final approval to a plan to further promote food donations and reduce waste. In South Dakota, a local food shelf says …

Those behind a Midwest food-donation effort for Ukraine say there are many relief efforts with good intentions. But sometimes donations can sit unused after shipment because of logistical issues. (Adobe Stock)

From the Midwest to Eastern Europe, Meal Program Helps Ukranian Refugees

Images from Ukraine and its fight for survival against Russia tug at the heartstrings of Americans, and those wishing to donate to relief …

An annual well-being report says South Dakota has seen worsening child obesity numbers over the past decade. (Adobe Stock)

SD Ranks Near Middle for Child Well-Being

PIERRE, S.D. -- A mixed bag of news can be found for South Dakota in the latest report measuring child wellbeing in the U.S. As families emerge from …

Bumblebees can die or be rendered sterile by systemic pesticides present in flower pollen. (PANNA)

Working in the Garden? Don't Forget About Bee Safety

PIERRE, S.D. - Pollinator gardens are gaining popularity this spring, but some well-meaning gardeners may not realize they could be harming the …

The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates that between 25 million and 30 million Americans live in

SD Group Plants "Edible Forests" to Address Food Deserts

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. -- A South Dakota nonprofit group is working to create "edible forests" to provide lower-income communities greater access to …

Approximately 11.4% of South Dakota's population consistently struggles with food insecurity, meaning they don't always know where their next meal is coming from. (hungertaskforce.org)

Empty South Dakota Food Pantries Request Donations

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Organizations that help feed hungry South Dakotans are concerned their supplies will run short this holiday season unless …

Residents of the Lakota Pine Ridge Reservation in southwest South Dakota are in recovery mode after severe flooding, while high water continues to threaten livestock in the north-central part of the state. (commondreams.org)

SD Flooding Causes Food, Water Shortage on Indian Reservations

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Flooding that began in the Midwest two weeks ago continues to affect the 20,000 residents who live on the Pine Ridge Indian …

In Hyde County, S.D., more than 75 percent of the fields are managed without tillage, according to the Natural Resources Conservation Service. (nrcs.usda.gov)

As Climate Heats Up, So Does Soil-Conservation Movement

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Farming practices aren't changing as fast as the climate, and food production is likely to suffer, according to one expert …

Rural residents across America rely on Medicaid to get health coverage, at the same time Medicaid helps rural hospitals keep their doors open and provide health care and jobs. (evolutionnews.org)

SD's Low-income Residents Have Nation's Highest Uninsured Rates

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - South Dakota is not one of 33 states that expanded its Medicaid program under the Affordable Care Act, but a new report contends …

Most SNAP-eligible households include children. The Congressional Budget Office estimates the House version of the Farm Bill would end or reduce benefits for nearly 2 million people. (sidwic.org)

Farm Bill Stalls Over SNAP Work Rules

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Congress may not be able to finish a new Farm Bill by the end of the month, when the old one expires. One deadlock is a …

For heart-healthy barbecues this summer, add veggies and fruit to the grill instead of making traditional dishes like potato or macaroni salad. (pixabay)

It's Summer: Toss Meats on the Grill; Don't Forget the Veggies

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Memorial Day weekend marks the beginning of summer – and for most people, barbecue season. Whether you prefer your …

Agriculture may be the top industry in South Dakota, but kids who aren't from farm families may not be aware of where their food comes from. (sitkalocalfoodsnetwork.org)

SD Kids Learn How Dirt Helps Make a Cheeseburger

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A survey two years ago found that one in five grade-school children didn't know where their food came from – and …

Many South Dakota bakeries and restaurants are currently breaking the law by selling

South Dakota's Cupcake Wars

PIERRE, S.D. – A Sioux Falls cupcake maker is waiting to learn this week if South Dakota lawmakers will approve a bill that would allow her to …

The average American citizen consumes more than 200 pounds of meat each year, nearly twice as much as they did in 1961.(insideclimatenews.org)

Is Meat the Next Target for a "Sin" Tax?

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Animal-rights advocates say the time is right for Americans who choose a meat-based diet to pay taxes on both the …

A South Dakota field specialist suggests farmers aim to reduce costs this year by at least 5 percent, without cutting their yield. (gimplearn.net)

Expert: Farmers Should Look to Spring with Caution, Optimism

ABERDEEN, S.D. — The farm outlook this year shows cautious optimism, according to one local expert. Jack Davis, field specialist at South …

This holiday season, South Dakotans should use vegetables and fruits to add some color and vitamins to their meals, health experts say. (jill111/Pixabay)

Eat Smart Month: Watch the Holiday Meals

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The holiday season is around the corner, and while that means fun get-togethers with family and friends, it also means hearty …

More businesses, cities and homeowners are committing to using pollinator-friendly plants and seeds to help out bees. (Sue Corbisez/Flickr)

In World Reliant on Bees, Experts Say They Need Protections

PIERRE, S.D. - As we enjoy the late-summer crops produced in South Dakota and around the country, environmental advocates are hoping everyone will …

R-CALF represents cattle and sheep producers in 47 states. (Bob Nichols/U.S. Department of Agriculture)

Ranchers' Annual Convention in SD Will Focus on Trade

RAPID CITY, S.D. - Ranchers from across the nation will come to Rapid City this weekend for the Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund annual …

A group of scientists is voicing concern that Sam Clovis, right, isn't qualified to be chief scientist at the USDA because he doesn't hold an advanced science degree. (Preston Keres/Flickr)

Scientists' Group: Trump's Pick for Ag Science Post "Unqualified"

PIERRE, S.D. – A leading scientific organization says President Donald Trump's nominee to be chief scientist at the U.S. Department of …

The organization Feeding South Dakota is trying mobile food pantries this summer to reach more rural South Dakotans. (Spencer Platt/Getty Images)

Report: SD Children Face High Risk of Food Insecurity

PIERRE, S.D. – Although the number of South Dakotans considered "food insecure" has fallen slightly this year, nearly one in eight still isn't …

South Dakota postal workers will be picking up and delivering food donations as part of a nationwide annual food drive. (iStockphoto)

South Dakota Letter Carriers Working to "Stamp Out Hunger"

PIERRE, S.D. - As one in eight South Dakotans continues to struggle with hunger, this weekend the state's letter carriers will be working to help…

About 39,000 South Dakota children, or 18 percent, live in homes that may not have enough money to keep food on the table. (iStockphoto)

Report: 18 Percent of SD Kids are Food Insecure

PIERRE, S.D. - More than 105,000 South Dakotans do not have access to enough food, according to new research that includes about 39,000 kids…

Two South Dakota companies and the city of Sioux Falls are being honored for helping employees work out at the workplace. (iStockphoto)

Honoring South Dakota's Healthy Workplaces

PIERRE, S.D. - Two South Dakota companies and a city are being honored today for taking steps to become some of the healthiest workplaces in the …

South Dakota college basketball fans are helping local teams earn the most food donations. (iStockphoto)

SD College Basketball Fans Helping With Hunger

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - College basketball fans have one more day to help fight hunger in South Dakota as part of an annual food drive. The Summit …

Organic farmers can start applying for a program to help them pay for conservation buffers on their lands. (iStockphoto)

USDA to Give Organic Farmers New Conservation Tool

PIERRE, S.D. – Organic farmers in South Dakota and across the nation soon will have a new tool to help their bottom lines while protecting the …

A South Dakota wildlife official is urging state lawmakers to shoot down a bill to allow bird hunting with a shotgun pistol. (iStockphoto)

SD Wildlife Official: Handgun Hunting's for the Birds

PIERRE, S.D - A move to allow a certain type of handgun for game bird hunting could come up before the South Dakota House today. HB 1206 would allow …

The USDA is no longer enforcing its grass-fed livestock labels and some farmers say that could cause confusion for the marketplace. (MorgueFile.com/mensatic)

SD Farmers Union: USDA's Latest Move Could Hurt Some Farmers

PIERRE, S.D. - This week the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced it will stop using labels for grass fed and naturally-raised livestock…

Climate change could have a big impact on the availability of food around the world. Photo by Jerry Oster

Climate Change Presents Multiple Threats to World Food System

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Climate change will have a big impact on food security across the globe, but will hit the poor and people living in tropical …

Healthy eating begins at home, and doesn't have to disrupt your life. Credit: Jerry Oster

Healthy Family Starts at Home

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The American Heart Association wants parents and children to feel they can make healthy choices in their home and in their busy …

University of Minnesota scientist says genetic diversity key to preventing widespread outbreaks of avian influenza. Photo: Cyndy Sims Parr/Flickr (non-commercial use)

Bird Flu: Industrial Poultry Production in Crisis

SIOUX FALLS, S. D. – The outbreak of avian influenza that has decimated hundreds of turkey and chicken operations in more than a dozen states …

Photo: People can help those that are hungry by adding a row to their garden this spring. Photo by GDNS.

Plant Some Extra in Your Garden to Share

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - To celebrate its 40th anniversary and help feed hungry people, Feeding South Dakota is starting its "Plant A Row" campaign with a …

Photo: The Backpack Program can help feed hungry children in South Dakota. Photo by GDNS

A Valentines Day Gift From the Heart

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Instead of buying your loved one chocolates and a bouquet of roses this Valentine's Day, Feeding South Dakota is asking you …

PHOTO: Changes to USDA loan programs have increased their flexibility, and could help more beginning farmers make a profit. Photo credit: Jerry Oster.

More Financial Help for Those Who Want to Get Back to the Land

YANKTON, S.D. - The U.S. Department of Agriculture is improving farm loans by expanding eligibility and lending limits to more beginning farmers…

PHOTO: According to the Center for Rural Affairs, rural areas have higher percentages of households receiving SNAP benefits than urban areas or small cities. Photo credit: U.S. Dept. of Agriculture/Flickr.

Study Finds Greater Rural Reliance on Food Stamps

YANKTON, S.D. – The issue of hunger is often associated with people in inner cities, where the cost of living tends to be high. But a new …

PHOTO: Those opposed to the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (T-TIP) protested during negotiations in March in Brussels, Belgium, where the latest round of talks is under way this week. Photo credit: Greens / European Free Alliance / Flickr.

Concerns at Home with Overseas "T-TIP" Trade Agreement Talks

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - With the latest round of talks on a proposed trade agreement between the United States and the European Union under way "across …

A Team Effort to "Stamp Out Hunger"

RAPID CITY, S.D. – Residents across South Dakota have a chance this weekend to help others in their community by taking part in the Stamp Out …

PHOTO: A compromise on the Farm Bill reached this week includes funding for programs that support rural development, jobs and farm income. Photo courtesy Bureau of Land Management.

Farm Bill Agreement: A "Win" for Clean-Energy Programs

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - Final passage of the much-delayed national Farm Bill is expected this week. The five-year compromise includes funding for …

PHOTO: An amendment to limit certain farm payments is not in the new five-year Farm Bill that's expected to be voted on today in the U-S House. Photo credit: Carl Wycoff

Farm Bill (Finally) Advances, Some Reforms Left Behind

VERMILLION, S.D. - After more than two years of debate, it appears a new Farm Bill is headed for passage - although there are misgivings on a number …

PHOTO: There are concerns that the Food and Drug Administration's voluntary program to reduce certain uses of antibiotics for farm animals will not be effective. The overuse has led to an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria or so-called

FDA Aims to Reduce Use of Antibiotics in Farm Animals

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - With the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, the FDA wants to phase out the use of antibiotics for promoting the growth of …

West River Ranchers Receive Boost from AARP-South Dakota

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - An early October blizzard, which brought up to four feet of snow and 70-miles-per-hour winds, killed thousands of head of …

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PNS Daily Newscast - April 18, 2024

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SD: Hunger/Food/Nutrition