Scientists to march in Sioux Falls

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SIOUX FALLS (AP) – Many scientists are planning to march in Sioux Falls this weekend to raise awareness about science, and encourage research and data-backed policymaking.

The Argus Leader said the effort is the local arm of a national campaign. Some scientists have been motivated to step into the political sphere following President Donald Trump's proposed budget cuts to the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Institutes of Health.

The Sioux Falls march starts at 10 a.m. today at Carnegie Town Hall, 235 W. 10th St.

The South Dakota Board of Regents and some research institutions have permitted scientists to participate in the march Saturday, but have advised them not to advocate for their institutions specifically.

Some scientists say they hoped to recharge excitement about the field and encourage non-scientists to seek elected officials' support of additional research funding in South Dakota. Others say they're unsure of the march's impact.