Summer in Codington County: Parks Revenue Up, Mosquito Fogging Underway, and 4-H in Full Swing

Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - Summer programming and public health initiatives are ramping up in Codington County, according to monthly departmental reports delivered at Tuesday’s Codington County Commissioners’ meeting.

Facility Manager Steve Molengraaf reported a strong start to the county’s park season. As of June 14, the parks department has logged 917 reservations, generating a revenue of $104,706.46. Molengraaf noted an interesting economic trend in the data: “Looking at from a year ago to today, there are a few reservations shorter, but the revenue is higher”. He attributed this to visitors booking longer stays, stating, “I think it’s starting to show a little bit of the economy a little bit... it’s a little bit tighter with all the gas prices and everything”.

Public health and pest control are also major priorities as the summer heat sets in. Molengraaf updated the board on West Nile Virus (WNV) mitigation efforts, noting that staff completed mosquito fogging in South Shore prior to the town’s 125th Centennial celebration and that Henry is scheduled to be fogged this week, weather permitting. Fortunately, mosquito counts remain low. “City of Watertown has reported very low numbers so far this season... it’s been really extremely low,” Molengraaf shared, though he admitted surprise given recent rains. In other agricultural news, Molengraaf highlighted a highly successful Weed Plant ID tour held near Ree Heights, which drew nearly 60 attendees.

Youth activities are also thriving, as reported by 4-H Youth Program Advisor Jodi Loehrer. Loehrer highlighted the ongoing 4-H Shake Wagon at Dacotah Bank, running through June 18. “The youth get very excited to serve the public,” Loehrer said, pointing out that June is Dairy Month. She also informed the board about the upcoming Cloverbud Camp, which currently has 24 young participants registered, and the start of the 4-H Shotgun program.

The 4-H Shake Wagon at Dacotah Bank is June 16-18, 2025, from 11 AM – 7 PM each day, the youth get very excited to serve the public as June is Dairy Month, there are chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla shakes for $5; One last FCS/CDM/Horticulture/YLL Skillathon will be held on Monday, June 22 from 11 AM – 2 PM.

Further supporting public health, the Board unanimously authorized an amendment to the FY 2026 WIC contract between the South Dakota Department of Health and Codington County. The amendment extends the performance period through September 30, 2026, and secures $18,269.59 in funding to support the program.