Governor DIscusses Proposed Merger of Ag Department of Environment and Natural Resources

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem has proposed merging the Agriculture Department and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources. 

In a conference call with producers and ag groups, she said it is a progression from the move of ag development into the Governors Office of Economic Development two years ago......

Noem says she wants a more streamlined agency and process.....

Noem says the permitting process needs to be simplified....

Her plan would also create some budget savings through the elimination of some full-time positions. The legislature will have the final say on the merger plan.