Sioux Falls, SD — South Dakota’s Second Century Habitat Fund (SCHF), in partnership with South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP), is increasing awareness of the devastating impacts of this winter’s storms to wildlife across South Dakota. These efforts include raising financial resources to help mitigate these effects.
This winter, South Dakota has been stricken with heavy snowfalls across the state and record-setting temperatures, in some cases reaching as low as negative 50 degrees. These are the harshest conditions put on South Dakota’s wildlife. Due to the deep snow cover, much of South Dakota’s quality animal habitat has become unusable, and food sources have been covered up for months making it extremely difficult for the wildlife to survive the remaining winter months.
“Quality habitat is the key ingredient for abundant wildlife populations, especially during severe winters,” said Kevin Robling, GFP Secretary. “The availability of woody habitat, food plots, and other thermal cover are essential for wildlife in harsh winters and greatly influence overwinters survival.”
“This winter has been brutal across the state. If we want thousands of South Dakotans and non-residents alike to enjoy pheasant hunting in the fall, we’ve got to make sure we take care of these birds during tough winters. Proper cover and accessible food sources, especially in the late winter months, are paramount for wildlife survival,” said SCHF President Adam Bender.
Second Century Habitat Fund Inc. estimates providing up to $300,000 in project cost for the campaign. SCHF will be putting forward $100,000 to start the initiative. SCHF will then match up to $100,000 of private donor contributions in 2023. If you would like to support this initiative and are looking to make a significant impact on South Dakota’s wildlife, you can make contributions at Second Century Habitat Fund Winter Initiative. Donations over $50 will receive a Limited-Edition Second Century Habitat Fund hat.
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