The bill establishes an "avian special purpose salvage permit" in South Dakota, allowing individuals to salvage, incubate, and release eggs from non-migratory game bird nests that may be unintentionally destroyed during lawful activities such as agricultural operations. The permit is required for these activities and must be obtained from the Department of Game, Fish and Parks. The bill amends existing law to include this new permit type and outlines the rights and privileges associated with it, as well as the rules for its issuance, which will be determined by the Game, Fish and Parks Commission.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing regulations regarding the destruction of bird nests and eggs, clarifying that certain actions are permissible under the new permit or under federal regulations for migratory birds. It also sets forth the criteria for the release of salvaged birds and establishes an annual permit fee not exceeding ten dollars. The Department is tasked with developing a permit application and ensuring that any fees collected are deposited into the department's fund.

Statutes affected:
Introduced, 02/03/2026: 41-6-10, 41-11-7