South Dakota Governor Signs Bills for Outdoor Recreation and Public Spaces

Funding for Blue Dog Fish Hatchery, Spearfish Canyon Hydro II transfer, and State Fairgrounds upgrades

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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Governor Larry Rhoden of South Dakota has signed three bills into law that aim to promote the state's outdoor recreation and improve public spaces. The measures include providing funding for construction at the Blue Dog State Fish Hatchery, transferring the Hydro II site in Spearfish Canyon to the Spearfish Canyon Foundation for preservation and education, and authorizing continued upgrades at the South Dakota State Fairgrounds in Huron.

Why it matters

These bills demonstrate South Dakota's commitment to protecting its natural resources and expanding recreational opportunities for residents and visitors. The Blue Dog Fish Hatchery is a key part of the state's fisheries management, while the Spearfish Canyon Hydro II site holds historical and educational value. Ongoing improvements at the State Fairgrounds also ensure this important public space can continue serving the community.

The details

The Blue Dog State Fish Hatchery bill provides funding for construction projects to expand and modernize the facility. The Spearfish Canyon Hydro II transfer will allow the Spearfish Canyon Foundation to take over the site and develop it for preservation and educational programming. And the State Fairgrounds upgrades bill authorizes continued investments in infrastructure and amenities at the fairgrounds in Huron.

  • Governor Rhoden signed the three bills into law on February 13, 2026.

The players

Governor Larry Rhoden

The current governor of South Dakota, who has signed these three bills into law to support outdoor recreation and public spaces in the state.

Spearfish Canyon Foundation

A non-profit organization that will take over the Hydro II site in Spearfish Canyon to preserve it and develop educational programming.

South Dakota State Fairgrounds

The fairgrounds located in Huron, South Dakota, which will receive continued upgrades and investments under the new legislation.

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What they’re saying

“These bills will help protect South Dakota's natural beauty and expand opportunities for future generations.”

— Governor Larry Rhoden (mitchellnow.com)

What’s next

The funding and transfer of the Hydro II site will allow the Spearfish Canyon Foundation to begin planning and implementing preservation and educational initiatives at the location. The State Fairgrounds upgrades will continue over the coming years to enhance the facilities and amenities for the annual state fair and other events.

The takeaway

South Dakota is demonstrating its commitment to outdoor recreation, environmental preservation, and improving public spaces through these legislative actions. The investments in the Blue Dog Fish Hatchery, Spearfish Canyon, and the State Fairgrounds will benefit residents and visitors alike, ensuring these important natural and community assets can be enjoyed for years to come.