This broadcast update covers key developments across South Dakota, including a major legislative debate over water quality, new holiday safety initiatives, a significant step forward for a Watertown non-profit, and a new community program to assist with hearing healthcare.

Signs point to more serious legislative action on water quality in South Dakota. A recent update to the legislature's executive board highlighted that nearly 80% of evaluated river and stream stretches in the state fail to support beneficial uses like swimming or fishing, largely due to agricultural runoff, including fertilizers and farm pollution.

The discussion is moving beyond just incentives, with key lawmakers suggesting stricter regulations may be necessary. This potential shift has conservationists hopeful, but it also signals a difficult political road ahead, particularly amid opposition from farming circles and criticism from the Governor, a rancher. A tight state budget forecast and a grim outlook for additional federal support may limit any new efforts.

To promote safe driving during the holiday season, the South Dakota Highway Patrol has announced it will be conducting sobriety checkpoints throughout December. These monthly checkpoints are a proactive strategy to discourage impaired driving and enhance public safety. The checkpoints will be conducted across 15 counties, including Codington, Custer, Day, Hughes, Lincoln, Minnehaha, Moody, Pennington, Walworth, and Yankton.

The Glacial Lakes Humane Society is moving forward with plans for a new facility in Watertown. On Thursday, November 20th, the Watertown Board of Adjustment unanimously approved a conditional use permit (CUP).

• The CUP allows for a commercial kennel in the I-1 Light Industrial District.

• The proposed site is located just south of the Walmart property along 29th Street Southeast.

• The property is approximately 2.77 acres.

• The new shelter, similar to the current one, will feature indoor and outdoor kennels, office space, storage, and an outdoor animal play area.

• The current shelter has operated on city-leased property since 1977.

The Watertown Lions Club has partnered with Professional Hearing Services to establish SD Hears, a new program dedicated to providing hearing assistance to local and area residents facing financial barriers. The initiative aims to expand access to comprehensive hearing health care, including:

• Testing

• Services and support

• Hearing aids for those who cannot afford them.

The program will be funded by the proceeds from the Lions Club's weekly Progressive Pot Blackout Bingo Nights, held every Tuesday at 2nd Street Station in Watertown. Dr. Todd Decker, audiologist and owner of Professional Hearing Services, expressed his excitement for the collaboration, which will ensure hearing care is available regardless of financial situation.

Northeast Radio SD is a family-owned, locally operated, all-online radio station based in Watertown, SD! Streaming LIVE 24/7 online at www.northeastradiosd.com OR download the Apple or Android LIVE365 app, search Northeast Radio SD, & stream all day, every day!

Please LIKE, Subscribe, and Share with all your cool friends!

Northeast Radio SD - HTML5 PLAYER (Direct link to START streaming NOW)

Apple link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk on the App Store

Android link: Live365 Radio - Music & Talk - Apps on Google Play