Features

The Bien Ranch of Veblen has been selected as the recipient of the 2022 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to the land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land.

In South Dakota, the award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, American Farmland Trust, South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association, and the South Dakota Grassland Coalition.

by Mimi Larsen Courier Staff Writer

In February, Grace Lutheran Church of Sisseton welcomed a new pastor to lead their congregation, the Rev. Josh Knudsen, along with his wife Marti, and their three children. Both Knudsens have fond memories of growing up in Lutheran congregations, and knew in their teenage years, one in South Dakota, and one in Iowa, that they wanted to serve the Lord one day.

by Mimi Larsen Courier Staff Writer

If a $25 million grant request is authorized by the federal government, the Sisseton Milbank Railroad (SMRR) will receive enough funds to completely modernize the 37 miles of rail track that runs between Milbank and Sisseton. The rail line’s modernization is as important for the local economies of Sisseton, Peever, Wilmot, and Corona as the line’s original construction was for their founding.

by Mimi Larsen Courier Staff Writer

Ben Pallesen, a native of Sisseton, has been a trooper with the SD Highway Patrol for ten years, and was recently promoted to the rank of sergeant, with responsibility for the Glacial Lakes Squad. The promotion went into effect on Feb. 9, while the ceremony for his pinning was held on Mar. 4 at the Sisseton Fire Hall, with SD Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Rick Miller in attendance to extend congratulations.