A South Dakota initiative to reduce agricultural runoff into the Big Sioux River is seeing increased participation after doubling its incentive payments to landowners. Since the state implemented the higher rates in 2023, the Riparian Buffer Initiative has enrolled 35 projects covering 608 acres along 218,556 linear feet of riverbank.
Turning the Tide on Pollution
The Big Sioux River has long suffered from pollution caused by soil erosion, agricultural chemicals, and livestock waste, exceeding safe levels for recreational activities like fishing and swimming. The buffer program, launched in 2021 with $3 million in funding, compensates landowners for creating vegetated strips along the river or its tributaries. These buffer zones filter pollutants and reduce erosion before runoff reaches the water.
Despite the environmental need, the program initially struggled to attract participants. By early 2023, no landowners had signed up.
Hunter Roberts, South Dakota’s Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) secretary, attributed this to insufficient financial incentives, stating, “We’re not paying enough to really move the needle.”
In response, the department increased payments.
- Old Rate Example: A 50-foot-wide, half-mile buffer with a 10-year contract yielded $5,000 for cropland or $1,300 for pastureland.
- New Rate Example: Payments increased to $13,000 for cropland and $3,400 for pastureland.
Progress and Impact
As of late October 2024, the program has:
- Reduced 1,593 pounds of nitrogen, 332 pounds of phosphorus, and 206 tons of sediment annually.
- Spent $1.17 million of its $3 million budget, with $800,000 allocated to 26 additional projects covering 382 acres.
- Partnered with organizations like Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, and the South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department to promote enrollment.
DANR aims to allocate all remaining funds by the program’s deadline of June 30, 2025.
Regional Collaboration
The state program complements local initiatives, such as those led by the East Dakota Water Development District (EDWDD). Based in Brookings, EDWDD has enrolled more than 100 landowners, establishing nearly 3,600 acres of buffers along 89 miles of streams.
While the overlap raises questions about coordination, both efforts share the goal of protecting South Dakota’s water resources.
Looking Ahead
The higher incentives and collaborative approach have brought the Big Sioux River buffer program closer to meeting its goals. However, continued outreach and adequate funding will be crucial to sustaining long-term improvements in water quality.
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