Dakota Life Season 27 (2024-2025)

A new summer tradition in Wessington Springs, Rockin' Ribfest, brings the community together over music, drinks, and of course - ribs.

From the field to the classroom, FFA opens doors to all kinds of careers—not just farming. Meet the students and teachers from South Dakota’s most decorated chapter and see how it’s shaping their futures.

Dr. Thomas Dean dedicated decades to caring for Wessington Springs. Now, he shares with SDPB a heartfelt look at the town’s rich history and the land he’s long called home.

A group called Rails To Trails Conservancy wanted to revitalize the Highline railroad bed. By 1989, a plan was put together for what we know as the George S. Mickelson Trail.

The Rise of truck travel was one of the reasons for the Highline's demise. By 1983, the line was declared abandoned.

The Burlington sent seasoned contractors to traverse the unique grade of the Black Hills. They completed 110 miles of track in just over 100 days.

November 2, 1889, was the day South Dakota became the 39th state and the day the Burlington and Missouri River Rail Road began laying track for what would become the Burlington, better known as the Highline.

To highlight the upcoming episode of Dakota Life, we share about the town of Wessington Springs and its origins.

Dr. Beth Jensen is a family physician who is the founder of Glean For Good, which allows visitors a way to appreciate farm-life through a number of activities including farm-to-table dinners, glorified petting zoo opportunities, soap making, felting, and as SDPB experienced - goat yoga.

Susan Haygood is a painter and sculptor with a life-long relationship with horses.