Bear Sightings In SD Prompt GFP Advisory – Mitchell Now

WATERTOWN, S.D. (MITCHELLNOW) South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is warning people about recent black bear sightings in northeastern South Dakota. There were two confirmed sightings last week near Pelican Lake, just southwest of Watertown. Officials remind everyone to watch pets closely, keep kids aware, and never approach a bear. It’s also important to secure garbage, bird seed, and other outdoor food to avoid attracting them. Officials say these visits should be rare and are likely to stop as the weather gets warmer.

The Mitchell Board of Education will vote tonight on final approval of the 2025-26 school district budget, including a proposed $24.6 million general fund. The public meeting, set for 5:30 p.m. at the Mitchell Career and Technical Education Academy, will also cover tax levy requests, meal prices for the upcoming school year, and key personnel decisions such as hiring special education staff.
Authorities have recovered the body of Juan Carlos Oballe Ixquiactap, a 28-year-old Sioux Falls man who drowned in the James River near Mitchell. He was swept away by a strong current Friday afternoon, prompting an extensive search involving drones, sonar-equipped boats, and ground crews.
The regional economy just got a boost, according to Creighton University’s latest Rural Mainstreet Index, which hit its highest level in two years—an unexpected positive sign. Despite low grain prices and concerns from community bankers that many farm operations may face losses in 2025, economist Dr. Ernie Goss points to continued strength in farm loan repayment rates and low delinquency levels, signaling cautious optimism in the rural Midwest economy.
Worthing residents are pushing back after their town landed on the shortlist for South Dakota’s new men’s prison site. At a public forum Thursday night, locals raised serious concerns about infrastructure, public safety, and a lack of government transparency.
South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks is urging caution after black bear sightings were confirmed last week near Pelican Lake, just southwest of Watertown. Officials advise residents to keep pets supervised, ensure children are aware, and avoid approaching bears. To prevent attracting wildlife, secure garbage, bird seed, and other outdoor food sources. While such sightings are uncommon, officials expect bear activity to decrease as summer temperatures rise.

source