GFP Briefs 01-14-22

Posted

GFP proposes Lake Vermillion boat ramp change

PIERRE – The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks is proposing to include the boat ramp on the south east side of Lake Vermillion to be within Lake Vermillion Recreation Area. 

This would require users of the boat ramp to have a valid park entrance license to utilize the ramp. The basis for this change is due to the level of development and investment that has been put into the boat ramp and associated parking lot nearing $500,000. 

Park entrance fees are the primary source of funds for the maintenance of park facilities, and parks depend on users to pay for these on-going expenses. The dam, spillway, and tailrace areas would remain free access. Those wishing to comment on this proposal may do so at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/.

Logging into your account with mySD

PIERRE – The new year is upon us and so is our new Go Outdoors South Dakota e-commerce system! This system combines the purchases of hunting and fishing licenses with state parks camping reservations and other purchases. 

When you go to gooutdoorssouthdakota.com, you will first begin by logging into or creating a mySD account. New with the system is integration with the statewide single sign on to provide additional account security and connection between other state agency systems. Because of this, your existing username and password is not going to work with mySD and the new system.

Below is some key information you need to know for your mySD account:

 If you have an existing account with mySD please use the email address on file.

• If you need to create a new mySD account, you will be prompted to do so after entering your unique email address.

• Every family member will need a unique email address for their mySD account to proceed.

• You must have access to the unique email address(es) so you can enter the verification code with your account.

Once your account is set up, you will then enter your last name, date of birth and last four digits of your social security number to connect your existing license profile. This means that all your current licenses, preference points and information will be ready for you in the new system.

Funding available for trails

PIERRE –  South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks announced today that applications are being accepted for grants from the Recreational Trails Program (RTP). The grants will be available for trail projects sponsored by municipalities, counties, state parks, federal land management agencies or tribal governments.

“When it comes to promoting healthy communities, recreational trails are key,” said Parks Director Scott Simpson said. “As safe corridors for exercise and recreation, trails give families the opportunity to spend quality time together and enjoy the natural beauty of our state.”

The Recreational Trails Program provides partial reimbursement for approved trail projects. Eligible projects include construction of new public trails, rehabilitation of existing public trails, development of trail-related facilities and educational programs that relate to recreational trails.

The application deadline is Friday, April 8, 2022.

RTP funds come to the state through the Federal Highway Administration and are apportioned to states by Congress to fund both motorized and non-motorized public recreation trail projects. The amount of funds available is based upon the number of recreational vehicles licensed in each state.

Application packets are available online at the Game, Fish and Parks website. For more information, contact Grants Coordinator Randy Kittle at 605-773-5490 or by e-mail at randy.kittle@state.sd.us.