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icestarphoenix · 2 years

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Since you did North Carolina, any headcanons for his Southern Counterpart?

South Carolina Headcanons

South Carolina’s State Spirit is indigo blue, though I’m not sure about what the form should be. It should probably have something to do with the palmetto tree, but I’m not sure how to incorporate it. Maybe there are more ideas than that though, feel free to let me know. [#003566]

He will vehemently insist that because American barbecue started in his state, his is obviously the best. It always spirals into an intense argument between the entire South that eventually leads to things getting thrown, like cups, plates, and hands.

He can really take spice. The infamous Carolina Reaper comes from South Carolina. The pepper’s taste still hurts a bit to him, but he can take the spice a lot better than one would expect.

However, this resilience is really only for capsaicin spice. Spike his slider with some wasabi and he will cry.

South Carolina is pretty prideful about keeping the original Carolina body and constantly rubs it in North Carolina’s face by calling him his “little brother.”

This technically isn’t really true as both people mentally formed at basically the same time while Carolina’s mind was splitting in half.

I’m going to retcon my older headcanon that the Carolinas don’t know who has the original body, as I feel like it fits the Dakotas better.

Since South Carolina is the birthplace of sweet tea, he’s had the most time to perfect the tea and sugar ratio he uses. The South likes his sweet tea the best, but they need to be covert in trying to get more in order to protect their pride.

Sweet tea originated in Summerville, South Carolina.

Despite Georgia being the Peach State, he isn’t even the top producer of peaches. South Carolina produces more peaches than him, second only to California. He often brings up this fact when tensions run high and relations become bitter during college football season.

Morgan Island, or Monkey Island, has a population of Rhesus monkeys that live on the land. It’s not open for human tourism and is guarded, but that didn’t stop Florida from somehow sneaking on and bringing a monkey back to the Statehouse.

When the poor monkey was finally recovered, South Carolina dragged Florida back to the island to return it and to personally apologize for the monkey theft.

Since Florida has now been to Morgan Island, he may sneak off time to time and teleport there to play with the monkeys. He isn’t bringing any back though, so it’s completely fine by his standards.

TW: Slavery mention

NOTE: I saw some facts about the unique Gullah culture listed in the websites I use to research and thought they were interesting. However, South Carolina’s history (as well as him being portrayed as a white guy) made me quickly reconsider if it was ok to make headcanons about that. I don’t want to leave it out though, so instead here are some things I found about the culture. Here is also a link to the Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor Commission’s website if you want to know more.

The Gullah Geechee are an African American ethnic group descended from Africans who were enslaved. Their unique creole culture developed as a result of geographic isolation in the Lowcountry which allowed for the people to preserve many aspects of various African linguistic and cultural heritage while also incorporating influences from their new region.

Sweetgrass basket weaving is a traditional weaving technique brought to the Carolinas by West African slaves. It’s a thing most of the websites I use bring up.

#replies!#welcome to the table #welcome to the statehouse #ben brainard #wttt #wttsh #wttt south carolina #headcanons #tw slavery mention #not for headcanon reasons #finally done with this one

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macysparadeblog · 1 year

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Floats from the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2021 that will not be returning in 2022:

Image 1: "Winning Winter Together" by Massmutual and NHL; float active in 2021.

Image 2: "Mount Rushmore's American Pride" from South Dakota Department of Tourism; float active from 2010-2021.

Image 3: "Tiptoe's North Pole" by Macy's; float active in 2021.

Image 4: "Home Sweet Home" by Cracker Barrel Old Country Store; float active in 2019 and 2021

Image 5: "Rexy in the City" by COACH; float active from 2019- 2021.

Image 6: "Santaland Express" by Universal Orlando Resort; float active in 1986-2004, 2008-2011, 2013, 2015, 2021.

#macy's thanksgiving day parade #macy's #thanksgiving #macysthanksgivingdayparade #macys #thanksgiving parade #thanksgiving day parade #holiday season #floats #95th annual thanksgiving day parade #96th macy's thanksgiving day parade

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crispys-corner · 2 years

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Fuck it I’m ranking the state tourism logos

Alabama: looks like a button. Based Skynyrd reference. Serviceable, but boring. 5/10

Arkansas: looks like a brand of like pet food or some shit. 3/10

Florida: I live here and let me tell you you should not VisitFlorida. I like the little wave-y thing though. 4/10

Mississippi: all judgements on the state aside, the interlocking S-rings is a really cool design. 7.5/10

Tennessee: pretty good. Standard, but nothing wrong with it. 6/10

Virginia: what does this even mean. I’m so confused by it it makes me want to call the tourism office to ask some questions so it does its job pretty well I guess. 6/10

Arizona: the only thing that makes this not shit is the little thing above “Arizona”. Pick up your fucking game Arizona. 3.5/10

New Mexico: I knew I could count on the state with one of the coolest flags. This is fucking interesting. Discovery. Adventure. Pots. 8/10

Colorado: I love Colorado. If you ever have a chance to visit red rocks or Grand Junction you should. The natural landscape is breathtaking. So I’m confused on why they didn’t USE ANY OF IT. 2/10

Idaho: it’s pretty good. It’s cool when you look at it but you forget it the second you look away. Just like the state. 6/10

Montana: hell yeah get that red dead ass font over here. 7/10

Georgia: peach. good font choice. 6/10

Kentucky: pretty interesting. Cool slogan too. 6.5/10

Louisiana: fuck yeah. It’s just a cool font but that’s all it needs to be baby. 7.5/10

North Carolina: dogshit. what the fuck is this guys. 0/10

South Carolina: love the palm tree and moon design but its kinda gated community-ish. 5/10

West Virginia: mountain mama. 4/10

Oklahoma: looks kinda like a clothing brand that overcharges on t shirts. 4/10

Texas: this is like something sewn into the side of my jeans. 6/10

Utah: tractor supply ass font. 5/10

Wyoming: YEEEEEE-HAW! 10/10

Oregon: what is that even. A tree? Whatever. 2/10

Indiana: eh. 3/10

Ohio: what does that mean Ohio. People don’t think of perfect balance when they think of you. I like the first “O” though. 5/10

Nebraska: I kinda like this one. But I don’t know why. I know it’s not great. But I also don’t care. 6.5/10

Missouri: dude the s’s(esses?) are River banks! Nice! 7.5/10

Iowa: Iowa what’s with your W. 2/10

Illinois: creative way to say “our state feels like it lasts forever but that’s only because most of it is empty”. 5.5/10

Wisconsin: that’s just a bumper sticker. 3/10

New Hampshire: really charming actually. I like the little houses. I AM going to love it there! 8/10

Massachusetts: kinda laughing over the slogan. Nice font though. 6.5/10

Connecticut: if you pronounce it the way the logo is emphasizing “connect” you would be mispronouncing the state. For those unaware, Connecticut is pronounced “kin-NET-ih-cuht”. Crazy right. 4/10

Maine: must it, though? 2/10

Rhode Island: there’s not much to this, but I FUCKING LOVE NAUTICAL DESIGNS. 8/10

Nevada: honestly super into this one. Simple, elegant, interesting. 9/10

California: this looks like the logo for a water bottle. 1/10

Washington: bold move to not have the name of your state in your tourism logo. Stupid, but bold. It does sound funny to say “experience wa” though. 4/10

Kansas: I have no idea how big Kansas is so this is false. 5/10

Michigan: another water bottle. 2/10

Minnesota: I like the blue and green together, and the font is nice. 6/10

North Dakota: Fuck. Yes. 10/10

South Dakota: it’s Six Grandfathers, it’s the Black Hills. Fuck Mount Rushmore. Great design though. 8/10

New Jersey: “oh you want our tourism logo? Here you go asshole I made it in four minutes”. Peak Jersey. 6/10

New York: a classic design but one I’m not a fan of. 5/10

Pennsylvania: this looks like the logo for an elementary school. A bougie elementary school. 3/10

Vermont: I do love me some mountains. 6/10

Delaware: come on Delaware that’s Florida’s boring logo. 3/10

Maryland: fuck yeah fly that medieval ass flag proud. Looks like a logo for cans of cat food though. 7/10

Alaska: MORE MOUNTAINS?! Great design, very simplistic. 7.5/10

Hawaii: fuck yeah put that apostrophe back in there. Love the colors on this bitch. 8/10

#ranking #list #my opinion reigns supreme #if you disagree you’re wrong #tw swearing

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ltlfreighthub · 4 months

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New Mexico to South Dakota LTL Freight Quote

Title: Navigating The Terrain of LTL Freight: A New Mexico to South Dakota Freight Quote Guide The journey from the arid deserts of New Mexico to the picturesque landscapes of South Dakota is not just a geographical shift. For businesses, it represents the movement of raw materials, finished goods, and everything in-between. Amongst the variety of freight options available, one stands out for its cost-effectiveness and efficiency - Less than Truckload (LTL) freight. Seeking a New Mexico to South Dakota LTL freight quote is often the first step in this journey. Located in the southwestern region of the United States, New Mexico boasts a vibrant culture steeped in history. However, what truly sets it apart is its strong economy, driven by sectors such as oil, gas, and tourism. But the heart of its economic prowess lies in its robust manufacturing sector, which necessitates smooth and efficient freight services. Meanwhile, South Dakota, located in the midwestern region, is home to industries like agriculture, healthcare, and retail. The state's diverse economic activities require constant movement of goods, making the role of freight services crucial. In this landscape, LTL freight services stand as a beacon of efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Unlike Full Truckload (FTL) shipments that occupy an entire truck, LTL shipments allow for multiple shippers' cargo to be combined and transported together. This option presents businesses with a cost-effective way to transport their freight, as they only pay for the trailer space their shipment occupies. But how does one navigate this terrain and secure the #1 LTL freight quote rate for New Mexico to South Dakota? The answer lies in leveraging online platforms offering free LTL freight quotes. By simply completing a free LTL quote form, businesses can access competitive rates and reliable freight services. These platforms utilize advanced algorithms and vast databases of freight carriers to generate accurate and timely LTL freight quotes. Your business details, the nature of the goods, the pick-up and drop-off locations are all factored in to provide you with the most accurate LTL freight shipment rate. But it's not just about getting an LTL freight quote. It's about understanding the nuances of the service, from scheduling pickups and deliveries to handling the paperwork. When choosing an LTL freight provider, look for one that offers comprehensive services, including tracking, insurance, and customer support, to ensure a hassle-free shipping experience. As you embark on your journey from New Mexico to South Dakota, Source: https://www.ltlfreighthub.com/new-mexico-to-south-dakota-ltl-freight-quote/ New Mexico to South Dakota LTL Freight Quote

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developingnaturegallery · 4 months

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2023 Landscape Series

Hi there! I made a new blog posting. Can you come for a visit? I worked hard on this project. I hope you like it. :)

I have added my last artworks for 2023 to my print shops; ArtWanted, Zazzle, TeePublic, Threadless. These pieces are of a landscape series inspired by old tourism and travel posters. There are fourteen new images to view and purchase. These are the states that you will find in my landscape series: Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Vermont, New York, Idaho, Wyoming, South Dakota, Utah, Arizona,…

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gregarnott · 5 months

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The Six Grandfathers, before it was carved up to create Mount Rushmore. In the Treaty of 1868, the U.S. government promised the Lakota Sioux tribe all of South Dakota, west of the Missouri River. This included the Black Hills, which are considered sacred lands.

However, once gold was discovered in the area in the 1870s, white settlers began to migrate into the area. The U.S. government then broke the treaty and reclaimed the Black Hills. In 1890, tensions reached a boiling point between the white miners and the Lakota Sioux people, which led to the Wounded Knee Massacre, where hundreds of unarmed Sioux women, children, and men were shot and killed by U.S. troops.

According to the National Park Service (nps.gov), the four U.S. presidents (George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln) that make up Mount Rushmore "tell the story of the birth, growth, development, and preservation of this country. From the history of the first inhabitants to the diversity of America today, Mount Rushmore brings visitors face to face with the rich heritage we all share."

The idea for Mount Rushmore was concocted in the 1920s by a local historian and a sculptor to drive tourism into the area.

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shutterandsentence · 5 months

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So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand

--Isaiah 41:10

Photo: Custer State Park, South Dakota

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1310miles · 7 months

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Forty Three

As I’ve written about before, the scheduling of these remaining marathons is getting trickier. I think back to the early days where I had so many to choose from and now, I’ve got to really think about timing to make sure I hit every state. If it were so to happen that my last six states only had marathons in the same month or week, I’d really have an issue! Thankfully, I think I’ve got my plans sorted out well. However, I have less of a preference of where I travel to. The locations within the states are really based on timing rather than where I’d like to go. For instance, in South Dakota, I would have preferred to do a race in the western part of the state and made a trip with the kids to the Badlands and Mount Rushmore. Instead, I needed to check it off the list, so I made my reservations for Sioux Falls.

It was a snap decision, and I wasn’t through a full training cycle, but if I didn’t run it, I didn’t see any way to get a race in to couple with my planned marathon in Oregon in October. I considered the Sioux Falls race to be a training run for Oregon and went in with the mentality that I shouldn’t (and didn’t need to) push too hard. I pursued this marathon so late that registration was full, and I had to register for their “ultra,” which was the marathon plus a 5k afterward. I contacted race management to confirm that I didn’t have to do both races to be considered a finisher. They said I would be fine just doing the marathon, but it did sit in the back of my head as a concern.

I was in Sioux Falls a day early to explore, run and relax. I had trouble doing the latter though because my hotel wasn’t making things easy. First, their cable system was out, so my plans to rot in bed all day and watch crime tv were foiled. Second, I couldn’t seem to beg my way into getting a late check out; no matter who I asked, they held the line that there was zero chance.

I needed to be out of the room at 10am on Sunday, and since the race started at 7am, there was simply no way I could get showered. I thought about how I would be on the plane as a disgusting post 26.2-mile mess. I thought about trying to find another hotel and sneak in their fitness facility (this hotel didn’t have one). I thought about all the angles. And then I put two and two together.

I put on my most pathetic voice and approached the front desk again. I was here to relax in a new city, and not only had housekeeping not cleaned my room on Saturday, the tv was not working. I was feeling so very unwelcome in town, and especially by the Hilton organization. I wanted the clerk to pass on how dissatisfied I was to management. Oh, what’s that? Can you do anything to make my stay any better considering these issues? Sigh. I guess not. Oh wait…maybe there is something. Thus, I got a late check out at noon.

The morning came and I could see the starting line from my hotel window. I was right across the street so I didn’t have to contend with parking and the finish was at the same spot so getting back would be easy too. I befriended a woman in the lobby, and we walked there together. She’s also doing 50 states but was only around 20 races in. She was also planning on doing the 5k after the marathon, so I started thinking maybe I could as well. It was just an idea.

At the start were all the standard songs runners are familiar with at races. “Born to Run,” “Back in Black,” “Run this Town,” “Eye of the Tiger,” and the Macklemore classic “Ceiling Can’t Hold Us.” That last one is a real ear worm, and I got it stuck in my head. The field was small, 250 runners. We headed out to tackle the Sioux Falls region.

The scenery was pleasant. We basically followed the river which loops south and then north around the city. The tourism bureau photo op location is the “Falls” which we arrived at around mile 5. This is a rocky park that the river cascades down. Lots of spectators there, and what’s that? A familiar song…”Ceiling Can’t Hold Us.” Just as I had gotten it out of my head.

For ten days before the race, Chicago (and Sioux Falls) experienced a heat wave. We were hitting almost 100 for a few days and I was nervous about the conditions for the race. I hydrated better than I ever had prior to a race, and I was practically floating by the time the day arrived. Miraculously, the heat stopped just for us and the temps were in the high 50s. Really tolerable, but I still stopped and walked through the aid stations. Like I mentioned, I planned to run the race easy, and I didn’t want to over stress.

Since I wasn’t speeding or stressing, the idea of doing that 5k at the end started taking shape. I thought a lot about how amazed everyone would be when I told them that I had done an Ultra! It felt like an interesting way to experience the race and hit another accomplishment. I knew it started at 10:45 and I though perhaps I’d make it to the starting line just in time.

There were not a lot of spectators in this race, and frankly not a lot of runners. At one point I was so alone for so long that I stopped a family in a park to confirm that I was still on the race route. The spectators I did see were leap frogging the course and they became familiar sights. One man told me as I crested a hill “it’s all downhill from here.” He and I both knew it was a lie, and I told him I was holding him to it. The next time I saw him, he acted afraid of my wrath, and I told him he was a big fat liar, all in good fun.

Along the way, I heard that damn Macklemore song 2.5 more times!!! I say .5 because I couldn’t tell if I had just absorbed the rhythm of the music into my psyche that all songs sounded like it or that I really had heard it that one additional time. I feel like someone needs to write a new “running inspiration” song ASAP.

As is my new strategy, I was working on getting in the top three in my age group. It’s a good way to keep occupied and keep going when I feel like dogging it in a race. Pursuing women along the course kept me really engaged. I would pass a woman and then just take notice of the next one up ahead and make a plan to overtake her (if this was being written by a man, it would sound nefarious). Along the way I passed 9 women, and I observed something interesting. I could spot a female runner from far away because only women were wearing colors in the race. Almost all the men were wearing black shorts and black shirts. Most women were wearing bright fun colors. I felt like the black clothes were the wrong choice in the heat.

Coming up on the end of the race I began reconsidering the next 5k. I felt alright, but I was going to miss the start of the race and I felt sure I would need to walk a good part of it. I was also feeling less confident in my late check out and hoping that the hotel manager wasn’t planning on kicking me out early or taking back the clerk’s promise to me. I decided to just plan on finishing, but if I felt awesome, jump into the 5k late.

The finish line was one of the most frustrating I’ve experience. Although we came upon what looked like the end, we were sent around a stadium, and ran the finish on the track inside the stadium. My watch was already reading 26.2 so each step felt like too much extra effort. Additionally, I had started to sprint to stay ahead of one final woman who looked like she could be in my age group, and the extended finish was really stressing my speed. When I finally crossed the line, my watch read 26.57, and I did beat her soundly.

I was dead though. Just couldn’t even fathom running 3.1 more miles. I gave up on the ultra and tried to make my way to the hotel. In a sign that I had enough, I tried to step over a barrier and my entire hamstring cramped up. I screamed and then laughed. No way. I was done.

Back at the hotel, I showered and didn’t overstay my welcome. I did in fact get 3rd in my age group and the “medal” would be mailed to me. On the way out of the lobby, my friend from the morning was walking in. She had just finished the 5k after running the marathon and getting 4th place overall!

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roamanddiscover · 9 months

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South Dakota

South Dakota is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. Known as the "Mount Rushmore State," South Dakota is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in America. This article provides an extensive overview of South Dakota covering its history, geography, climate, economy, culture, tourism, and other related information. The history of South Dakota dates back to prehistoric times when it was inhabited by numerous Native American tribes. French and Spanish explorers later arrived in the region, but European settlement did not occur until the 19th century with the discovery of gold. The Homestead Act also attracted many settlers to the region, leading to further development and growth. South Dakota's geography is diverse, encompassing the Black Hills, Badlands, high plains, rolling hills, rivers, and lakes. The state's unique ecology comprises of prairies, forests, and wildlife. The climate varies depending on the region, but South Dakota generally experiences a continental climate with cold, dry winters and hot, humid summers. The state's economy is dominated by agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. The major industries include beef and dairy farming, food processing, machinery, and healthcare. South Dakota is also home to several research institutions, making it a hub for scientific and technological advancements. South Dakota has a vibrant culture that is reflected in its art, music, literature, and festivals. The state is also renowned for its outdoors and adventure activities, such as camping, hiking, skiing, and rodeo. The major cities in South Dakota include Sioux Falls, Rapid City, and Aberdeen. Whether you're interested in history, nature, or adventure, South Dakota has something to offer for everyone. The top places to visit in South Dakota include Mount Rushmore, Badlands National Park, and Crazy Horse Memorial. The state is also known for its local specialties, craft beer, and wines. Visitors can choose from a wide array of high-quality accommodations, ranging from hotels and guesthouses to camping sites. South Dakota is truly a great destination that offers endless possibilities for exploration and adventure.

Etymology

South Dakota was admitted to the Union on November 2, 1889, as the 40th state of the United States. Its name comes from the Lakota and Dakota Sioux Native American tribes, which means "friend" or "ally." The state is also known as the "Mount Rushmore State" due to its famous Mount Rushmore National Memorial, a sculpture carved in granite that features the faces of four US presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. But the name "Dakota" has a much deeper meaning. It originates from the Sioux word "Dakota," which translates as "friend" or "ally." The state motto, "Under God, the People Rule," reflects the democratic principles upon which the United States was founded. Before becoming a state, South Dakota was part of the Dakota Territory, established in 1861. The territory was split in two in 1889, with North Dakota and South Dakota becoming separate states. Despite being equal in population, North Dakota was admitted to the Union first, earning the title of the 39th state, while South Dakota became the 40th. South Dakota's history is deeply intertwined with the Native American tribes that have lived there for thousands of years. The Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota tribes were the first inhabitants of the area, with their presence dating back to the paleo-Indian period. French and Spanish explorers arrived in the area in the 17th century, followed by American fur traders and adventurers. In the late 19th century, the discovery of gold in the Black Hills, located in western South Dakota, sparked the famous gold rush that brought thousands of people to the area. Later, the Homestead Act of 1862 encouraged pioneers to settle in South Dakota, leading to the establishment of many towns and farms. Today, South Dakota is a diverse and vibrant state with a rich cultural heritage. It is a popular destination for tourists, offering a range of activities such as hiking, camping, skiing, and wildlife viewing. The state is also home to many famous figures, including presidents, actors, musicians, and authors. South Dakota's unique combination of history, culture, and stunning scenery makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the rich diversity of America.

History

South Dakota is a state rich in history, dating back to prehistoric times. The first inhabitants of the area were the Native Americans, who inhabited the region for thousands of years before the arrival of European explorers. French and Spanish traders and explorers made their way through South Dakota in the late 17th century. However, the most significant events in South Dakota's history occurred during the 19th century. In 1803, the United States government purchased the Louisiana Territory from France, including the land that would later become South Dakota. Lewis and Clark traveled through the area in 1804 and 1806, mapping the region and making friendly contact with local tribes. The Homestead Act of 1862, which encouraged westward migration by granting land to settlers who would develop it, spurred the growth of white settlements in South Dakota. The area became part of the Dakota Territory in 1861, and in 1889, it was split into North and South Dakota. The discovery of gold in the Black Hills in 1874 attracted a rush of prospectors and settlers to the area, leading to tensions between the Native Americans and the newcomers. This culminated in the Battle of the Little Bighorn in 1876, where General George Custer and his troops were defeated by a coalition of Native American tribes. The late 19th century and early 20th century were marked by conflict, including the Wounded Knee Massacre in 1890, where over 150 Native Americans were killed by U.S. soldiers, and the forced removal of the Dakota people to reservations. South Dakota became a state on November 2, 1889, with Pierre as its capital. Today, the state's rich history is celebrated in museums and historic sites throughout the region. - Notable events in South Dakota's history include: - The 1804-1806 expedition of Lewis and Clark through the area - The signing of the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1868, which established peace between the United States and the Sioux tribes - The discovery of gold in the Black Hills in 1874 and subsequent gold rush - The Wounded Knee Massacre of 1890 - The establishment of Mount Rushmore National Memorial in 1927 South Dakota's history is a rich tapestry of Native American culture, European exploration, westward expansion, and conflict.

Geology

If you are a lover of geological wonders, South Dakota is the place for you. Geology enthusiasts come from different parts of the world to explore the geological features of the state. The geology of South Dakota includes Mesozoic rocks, Precambrian formations, and other stunning natural landscapes such as the Black Hills and Badlands National Park. The Black Hills are situated in the southwestern part of South Dakota and are one of the most fascinating geological sites in the world. The hills are famous for their rugged beauty and contain igneous and metamorphic rocks that are millions of years old. The rocks in the hills include granites, schists, and gneiss that have been metamorphosed due to heat and pressure. One of the most famous landmarks in the Black Hills is the iconic Mount Rushmore, which is carved into the granite rocks. The carving features faces of four former U.S Presidents, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. Badlands National Park is another geological wonder in South Dakota. The park is located in the southwestern part of the state and is famous for its striking landscape of eroded rocks, deep canyons, and spires. The park is over 244,000 acres and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors to the park can hike, camp, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The state also features several other stunning natural landscapes, including the Needles, a series of granite pillars that rise high above the Black Hills, and the Crazy Horse Memorial, a massive sculpture that is still being carved into the side of a mountain and is expected to be the largest in the world. South Dakota's geology is fascinating and offers a lot for visitors to explore. With its unique geological formations and beautiful natural landscapes, it is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the earth's history and natural wonders.

Geography

South Dakota is a state located in the Midwestern region of the United States. It has a total area of 77,116 square miles and is the 17th largest state in the country. The state's geography is diverse and offers a range of landscapes, which makes it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The high plains cover most of the central and eastern parts of South Dakota. The area is characterized by rolling hills, prairies, and grasslands. It is also home to numerous rivers such as the Missouri River, which runs along the eastern edge of the state. The river is an important source of water for agriculture, recreation, and transportation. The western edge of South Dakota is home to the Black Hills, a region known for its beautiful forests, canyons, and rock formations. The Black Hills are a popular tourist destination and boast several iconic landmarks such as Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Badlands National Park. In addition to the Black Hills, the state has other notable geographic features such as the Coteau des Prairies, a plateau that runs through the northeastern part of the state and separates the Missouri River basin from the Red River of the North basin. South Dakota is also home to several lakes, including Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, and Lewis and Clark Lake, which offer great recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The state experiences a continental climate, which is characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 80 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, while winter temperatures can drop to -20 degrees Fahrenheit. The state also experiences thunderstorms, tornadoes, and blizzards. South Dakota's diverse geography offers something for everyone. Whether you enjoy camping, hiking, fishing, or exploring new landscapes, South Dakota has it all. With its pristine nature, iconic landmarks, and rich history, South Dakota is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable experience.

Ecology

South Dakota boasts a diverse and unique ecology, with various prairies, forests, and wildlife. The state is home to over 40 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, and 100 species of reptiles and amphibians. The South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks department is responsible for managing the state's wildlife and preserving its natural habitat. One of the most notable features of South Dakota's ecology is its grasslands. The state has one of the largest remaining expanses of native prairie in the country, which provides habitat for various species including bison, pronghorn, and prairie dogs. The prairie also offers valuable ecosystem services such as carbon storage, groundwater recharge, and soil conservation. South Dakota is also known for its forests, which cover roughly 6% of the state's land area. The Black Hills region is home to the largest remaining stand of ponderosa pine forest in North America, providing habitat for black bears, mountain lions, and elk. The state government is committed to promoting sustainable forestry practices and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires. In addition to its prairies and forests, South Dakota has a significant amount of wetlands and waterways. The state is home to over 1,500 lakes and reservoirs, providing habitat for various species of fish and waterfowl. The South Dakota Department of Environment and Natural Resources is responsible for managing the state's water resources and ensuring their quality. Conservation efforts are crucial to maintaining South Dakota's unique ecology. The state government collaborates with various organizations and agencies to protect endangered species, restore habitat, and promote sustainable land management practices. The South Dakota Grassland Coalition, for example, works to promote the conservation of grasslands and educate landowners and ranchers on sustainable grazing practices. South Dakota's ecology is diverse and unique, with various prairies, forests, and waterways providing habitat for various species of wildlife. The state government and various organizations are committed to preserving and promoting sustainable land management practices to ensure the state's natural resources are protected for future generations.

Biodiversity

South Dakota is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna species, making it one of the richest regions in terms of biodiversity. The state is home to a total of 7,000 plant species, including a variety of grasses, shrubs, and trees. The grasslands of the state are particularly notable, as they provide suitable habitats for a range of species, such as pronghorn, bison, and prairie dogs. South Dakota’s wildlife is also incredibly diverse. The state is home to over 300 bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers. The most common species include the red-winged blackbird, great horned owl, and American goldfinch. South Dakota’s waterways are home to a variety of fish species, including walleye, pike, and bass. In addition, the state is home to a variety of amphibians and reptiles, such as the bullfrog, western painted turtle, and garter snake. South Dakota also has a diverse range of mammal species, including large predators such as mountain lions, black bears, and coyotes. There are also herbivorous mammals like the white-tailed deer, mule deer, and elk. In addition, the state is home to smaller mammals such as raccoons, skunks, and rabbits. South Dakota’s natural habitats are incredibly important for the conservation of biodiversity and preservation of some of the state’s rarest species. The state has 67 endangered species, including the swift fox, whooping crane, and Dakota skipper. Efforts are ongoing for the protection and restoration of these species and their habitats. The South Dakota Department of Game, Fish, and Parks has a mission of conserving and enhancing South Dakota’s natural resources, including its diverse flora and fauna. The department manages state parks, nature preserves, and other protected areas across the state, working tirelessly to maintain the natural habitats that are so important for South Dakota’s biodiversity. South Dakota’s rich biodiversity is evident through its diverse range of flora and fauna species. Efforts are ongoing to maintain and protect the state’s natural habitats and their inhabitants. South Dakota and its unique natural wonders are truly a sight to behold and offer a glimpse of the rich biodiversity that exists in the United States.

American goldfinch

Climate

South Dakota has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are typically warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from around 70°F to 90°F. In the winter, temperatures can drop to as low as 10°F, and the state receives an average of around 44 inches of snowfall each year. South Dakota also experiences thunderstorms, tornadoes, and hailstorms during the warmer months. The state's western region has a semi-arid and arid climate due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains. The area can experience large temperature fluctuations, and summers tend to be drier than the rest of the state. The Black Hills region has a unique microclimate, with cooler temperatures and higher precipitation levels. The state experiences distinctive seasonal variations, with hot summers and cold winters. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time in South Dakota when the foliage turns golden and red, creating a stunning display of color. Winter brings several winter sports opportunities, including skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing, making it a popular tourist destination. South Dakota experiences a dry climate, with high evaporation rates and low precipitation levels. Due to this, droughts can occur, causing damage to crops and affecting the agricultural industry. When planning a trip to South Dakota, it is important to take note of the weather patterns in order to make the most out of your experience. It is recommended to check weather reports and seasonal forecasts beforehand, especially if you plan on outdoor activities. Below is a chart showing the average temperature and precipitation levels in South Dakota by month: Month Average Temperature (°F) Average Precipitation (in) January 14.3 0.44 February 20.7 0.54 March 30.1 1.18 April 42.4 2.07 May 53.1 2.95 June 62.0 3.34 July 66.4 2.89 August 64.4 2.61 September 54.7 1.76 October 43.2 1.52 November 27.5 0.63 December 18.2 0.43 the climate in South Dakota may be unpredictable, but the state's unique weather patterns and seasonal variations make it a fascinating destination to visit.

Environmental Issues

South Dakota is known for its natural beauty and unique ecology, but it is not without its share of environmental issues. One of the most pressing issues facing the state is wildfires, which can devastate vast areas of forests and grasslands. In recent years, South Dakota has experienced some of its largest wildfires on record, which have caused widespread damage to wildlife habitats and threatened homes and communities. Another major issue is water pollution, which can come from various sources, including agricultural runoff, wastewater discharges, and mining operations. This can be particularly harmful to aquatic ecosystems and can also pose serious risks to human health. South Dakota has implemented several measures to reduce water pollution, including stricter regulations on industrial discharges and conservation efforts to preserve wetlands and other sensitive habitats. Endangered species are also a concern in South Dakota, where several species are at risk of extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and other factors. Some of the endangered species in the state include the black-footed ferret, the swift fox, the pallid sturgeon, and the whooping crane. Conservation efforts are underway to protect these and other endangered species and to restore their habitats in the state. South Dakota also faces other environmental issues, such as air pollution, soil erosion, and the spread of invasive species. Read the full article

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