Archaeology Program Saved in South Dakota
Earlier this year, South Dakota Governor M. Michael Rounds proposed eliminating the South Dakota State Historical Society’s archaeology program, which would close the Archaeological Research Center in Rapid City and slash 17 jobs.
Earlier this year, South Dakota Governor M. Michael Rounds proposed eliminating the South Dakota State Historical Society's archaeology program, therefore closing the Archaeological Research Center in Rapid City and cutting 17 jobs. The proposed budget reduction included approximately $309,000 in state general funds, $110,000 in federal funds, and $1.5 million in other funds (earned revenue) from the 2010 state budget.
Integral to the history of South Dakota and the preservation and protection of the state's cultural resources, the Archaeological Research Center is a program of the South Dakota State Historical Society under the direction of the state archaeologist. Its mission is to conduct a statewide archaeological survey, protect South Dakota's archaeological resources, maintain records of the archaeological sites in South Dakota, act as a repository for archaeological collections, and promote awareness of South Dakota's prehistoric and historic heritage.
Advocates responded to the proposed threat by contacting elected officials and explaining the consequences of the proposed cut. After a stalwart effort by a number of interest groups, supporters effectively made the case to the Joint Appropriations Committee, which enabled agreements that saved the program. The work required two pieces – 1) finding an alternative funding source to replace general funds, and 2) getting the program back in the budget. The alternate funding source came in the form of a temporary increase in tourism tax. Every member of the Joint Appropriations Committee except one supported the temporary tax increase, and on a voice vote, the committee also added the archaeology program back in the State Historical Society's budget.
