U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development State Director Elsie M. Meeks today announced new data highlighting USDA investments in rural South Dakota.
"Supporting our rural communities benefits all South Dakotans," said Meeks. "USDA has made dedicated investments in manufacturing, energy and small businesses and is bringing reliable services like water, housing and broadband to help attract and retain a talented workforce. The report shows that the entrepreneurial spirit is strong in rural South Dakota."
The data summarizes specific USDA investments in rural South Dakota’s businesses, manufacturing, energy, water and other infrastructure development. It also outlines how USDA is helping rural South Dakota attract businesses and families by investing in housing and broadband. This information is part of USDA’s national "Made in Rural America" report illustrating the impact of USDA investments in rural America.
In South Dakota, USDA has made investments to help 263 rural businesses thrive and grow, including $20.7 million investment in rural manufacturing alone. Rural manufacturing supports 25,367 jobs in South Dakota. In addition, USDA has helped 8,970 South Dakota families purchase or repair homes and has invested $205.9 million to support efficient water support, treatment and storage facilities, and wastewater treatment systems. This investment has improved the health of thousands of rural South Dakotans who now have access to clean water and reliable sanitation.
More information is available at www.usda.gov/opportunity. The “Made in Rural America” report reflects USDA’s efforts to strengthen the "four pillars" of a new economy in rural America by developing a robust bio-based economy; promoting exports and production agriculture fueled by increased productivity and research; encouraging conservation including land management, stewardship and outdoor recreational opportunities; and building a strong local and regional food system to harness entrepreneurial innovation and help small and medium-sized family farms succeed in rural America.