South Dakota Tourism Leaders Celebrate Record $5 Billion Impact During Watertown Media Tour
- Steve Jurrens
- May 7
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - As the nation marks National Travel and Tourism Week (May 3–9, 2026), leaders from the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota and Visit Watertown gathered Tuesday to highlight the staggering economic contributions of the visitor industry. With a record $5.1 billion in visitor spending recorded in 2025, the industry has cemented its status as the state’s second-largest economic driver.
Carmen Schramm, Executive Director of the Tourism Coalition of South Dakota, described tourism as more than just a seasonal boost; it is a permanent economic engine that lowers the tax burden for every South Dakotan.
“Every tax-paying household actually saves $1,121 every year because of the revenue that comes in from the industry,” Schramm noted during the media tour. “We like to call ourselves the ‘front porch’ of economic development because it all starts with a visit.”
The Local Lens: Codington County
In Codington County, the numbers tell a story of vital local support. Tourism activity in 2025 generated $9.11 million in state and local tax revenue, funding essential services like infrastructure and public safety. Anjelica Uthe, Executive Director of Visit Watertown, emphasized that these visitors support 1,436 local jobs, making up over 6% of the county’s total employment.
“Tourism is a direct investment in our people, our businesses, and our quality of life,” Uthe said. “These visitors aren’t just passing through; they’re supporting the restaurants and attractions that we, as residents, get to enjoy every day.”
Looking Forward: America 250 and the “Halo Effect”
The 2026 tour comes at a pivotal moment as the state prepares for the United States Semiquincentennial (America 250). South Dakota’s premier celebration—a historic fireworks display at Mount Rushmore—is set for July 3, 2026.
Schramm also highlighted the “Halo Effect” of tourism—the phenomenon where a positive visitor experience leads to long-term residency or business investment. She shared the story of a visitor to Mitchell who was so impressed by a local archaeological site that she and her entire family eventually relocated to the state.
“Everybody starts as a visitor,” Schramm said. “If you go somewhere, you’re treated great, and you love the area... you might start a business here. It all starts with that first visit.”
Sustainability and Community
The tour also promoted the “Forever 605” initiative, which encourages visitors and residents alike to respect the state’s unique landscapes and support local businesses. Uthe encouraged residents to view their own hometown through fresh eyes this week.
“Take the time to notice [the landscape],” Uthe urged. “Look at it from the eyes of a visitor... it’s beautiful and it changes all the time.”
Visit Watertown will conclude its celebration with an Open House and Ribbon Cutting at its new office in the Goss Opera House this Thursday, May 7, at 4:00 PM.
