AI Data Centers & Utilities: South Dakota PUC candidates clash over a proposed one-year moratorium on new AI data centers; the Democratic candidate argues for a pause to protect ratepayers and control infrastructure costs, while the Republican says existing state laws and oversight are enough. Local Tax Policy: Yankton County took a first reading on a proposed half-cent sales tax to fund owner-occupied property tax reductions, with a second vote set for Sept. 17. Landfill Diversion: Rapid City moved toward a deal with Dakota Biochar to turn waste wood into biochar, aiming to extend landfill life and help keep long-term resident rates down. Agriculture Leadership: Vermillion’s Jerry Schmitz was named a 2026 Eminent Leader in agriculture, family and community, highlighting decades of work growing South Dakota’s soybean industry. Science & Industry: Researchers at the Sanford Underground Research Facility in the Black Hills reported a possible dark matter hint from the LUX-ZEPLIN experiment, stopping short of calling it a confirmed detection. Energy Costs: Black Hills Energy shared winter prep tips for customers facing higher rates, focusing on heating-system checks and sealing drafts. Tourism Impact: Sioux Falls tourism leaders say trade tensions with Canada are cutting into Canadian travel dollars. Agricultural Risk: A new soybean pest, soybean tentiform leafminer, has been confirmed in Wisconsin and is already known from South Dakota, raising scouting and damage-monitoring questions for the region.