South Dakota Department of Corrections staff and inmates have wrapped up storm clean up efforts in Highmore and Huron.
The initial deployment of 25 minimum-security female offenders from the Pierre Minimum Center and DOC staff members occurred on June 29, 2026, following high winds that caused extensive damage in and around the Highmore. DOC crews spent a total of 8 days assisting in cleanup efforts in that area.
DOC crews first deployed to Huron on July 3, following a storm the night before that resulted in extensive damage to the State Fairgrounds and throughout Huron, including downed trees, loss of utilities and other debris. The first deployment included 15 minimum-security offenders and 4 DOC staff members from Sioux Falls. Another DOC crew of 25 offenders and 3 staff returned to the fairgrounds on July 5 to continue with cleanup.
From July 6-17, operations expanded beyond the fairgrounds to support recovery efforts at multiple locations throughout Huron. In addition to the State Fairgrounds, crews consisting of 24 to 30 offenders and 3 to 5 staff members were deployed to city streets, parks and the landfill. DOC crews removed storm debris, cut and hauled fallen trees, cleared city streets and parks, and transported storm debris to the landfill.
Corrections Secretary Nick Lamb says throughout the response, offender crews provided more than 2,700 hours of labor under the supervision of DOC staff and approved community service supervisors. He says the crews were working in less than ideal conditions, but offenders indicated that “they enjoyed the opportunity to help out and give back.”
Governor Larry Rhoden says in South Dakota we believe in finding practical solutions that benefit everyone. He says the DOC initiative is a win-win because the communities received much-needed help and the inmates had the opportunity to get outside and contribute to something greater than themselves.
DOC maintains a disaster response team at each facility to respond to natural disasters at the request of the Governor’s Office and the Department of Public Safety Office of Emergency Management.
South Dakota Department of Corrections offenders assisting with storm cleanup in Highmore.
Courtesy photo.
South Dakota Department of Corrections offenders assisting with storm cleanup in Highmore.
Courtesy photo.South Dakota Department of Corrections offenders assisting with storm cleanup in Highmore.
Courtesy photo.
South Dakota Department of Corrections offenders assisting with storm cleanup in Huron.
Courtesy photo.
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