South Dakota, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural heritage, is currently experiencing a transformational “water renaissance.” This development, which holds far-reaching implications for the state’s infrastructure and its residents, is largely attributed to the strategic implementation of the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), a legislative effort from the Biden administration. Hunter Roberts, South Dakota’s Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, is at the helm of these advancements.
Roberts and his team have been pivotal in allocating $689 million received through ARPA to support 200 vital water-related projects around the state. The primary objective has been to enhance and modernize South Dakota’s water systems, ensuring that every resident has access to clean and safe drinking water—a fundamental requirement for sustainable community growth.
“If we don’t have safe, clean drinking water, what else do we have?” Roberts poignantly posed to a legislative committee at the Capitol in Pierre, highlighting the paramount importance of these investments. With responsibilities extending across the regulation of drinking water and wastewater systems, the department has used the influx of ARPA funds to stimulate investments long overdue.
Congress passed the ARPA legislation in 2021 to aid in economic recovery during the COVID-19 pandemic, injecting a staggering $1.9 trillion into the national economy. South Dakota’s share of this package was approximately $1 billion. Funds have been earmarked not only for water infrastructure but also broadband expansion, telemedicine, and housing—making it a holistic stride toward modernization across multiple sectors.
Roberts commented on how the ARPA funds effectively “spurred our utilities to get off their keister” after decades of dormancy, facilitating the modernization of essential facilities like storage reservoirs, treatment plants, pump stations, and sewer lines. This funding has inspired utility providers within the state who had not made significant upgrades in 20 to 30 years to take necessary action.
Despite praising the ARPA for its positive local impact, Roberts has voiced significant concerns over broader federal regulatory practices. He criticized the Biden administration for enacting “overly broad, overreaching, unfounded” regulations that he felt stymied state-level autonomy. The irony isn’t lost on many observers, given the simultaneous commendation of the ARPA’s contributions.
Roberts’ concerns extend to the economic horizon as well, particularly with international trade—a critical sector for South Dakota’s substantial agricultural industry. With former President Donald Trump’s imposition of tariffs, the potential negative repercussions on trade had Roberts and other state officials on high alert. “That remains to be seen how that all works through the system, but it’s certainly something we’re watching closely,” he remarked.
Roberts stepped into his leadership role in 2019, appointed by then-Governor Kristi Noem. Noem’s influence has extended well beyond South Dakota, leading to her current role as the U.S. Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security under President Trump’s administration. Her tenure as governor had set the stage for many of the state’s contemporary initiatives.
This era of transformation brings new challenges and opportunities to South Dakota’s forefront, particularly in how it adapts to legislative changes and funding structures. The state stands as a fascinating case of how federal initiatives can yield significant local benefits while also stirring debate over broader regulatory practices.
South Dakota continues to be a beacon of natural beauty and resilient communities, and these infrastructure projects are paving the way for a sustainable future. For a land steeped in rich cultural traditions and innovative spirit, the ARPA funds symbolize a pivotal moment in its ongoing journey toward progress.
The “water renaissance” in South Dakota exemplifies how strategic investments can redefine essential public services. As these projects continue to unfold, the state is poised to set an example for others in balancing federal support with local autonomy, demonstrating that even in the spirit of debate, remarkable growth can be achieved.