RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – South Dakota inmates are once again available this summer to help communities with storm cleanup and other public service projects, according to the Department of Corrections.
Officials say inmates at facilities in Sioux Falls, Rapid City, Springfield, Yankton, and Pierre have recently been trained and certified to assist with natural disaster response. Tasks can include things like clearing branches, hauling debris, and helping with general cleanup after severe weather.
Gov. Larry Rhoden said the program is part of a broader effort to prepare for storms, reduce cleanup costs for communities, and give inmates productive work experience. Similar crews assisted with cleanup in Hudson and Custer State Park after windstorms last year…