Lack of enforcement of regulations allows some South Dakota farmers to illegally convert wetlands to croplands - South Dakota News Watch

South Dakota News Watch

Center

Lack of enforcement of regulations allows some South Dakota farmers to illegally convert wetlands to croplands - South Dakota News Watch

Wildlife and water quality in South Dakota are sometimes put at unnecessary risk due to a lack of oversight and accountability of farmers who illegally drain their properties or convert protected wetlands into farmable acreage.In addition, those who violate the law frequently avoid punishment when they are caught or are given “good-faith waivers” by local oversight groups often made up of fellow farmers and neighbors.As a result, South Dakota an…