Circuit Rider Program Update – Continuation of Services During Federal Shutdown

Dear Rural Water Members,

As many of you have heard, the federal government shutdown has caused USDA Rural Development to issue a Stop-Work Order for the national Circuit Rider Program effective November 1, 2025.

While this order temporarily suspends the federally funded portion of the Circuit Rider Program, the South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems (SDARWS) remains committed to maintaining service and technical assistance to our member systems.

We are fortunate to have an active Disaster Recovery Circuit Rider Program (DRCR), funded through January 2026, that allows us to continue providing essential on-site and emergency support. We are also evaluating internal and other funding sources to ensure that services continue if this work stoppage extends beyond the DRCR program’s funding period.

Please note:

• Services provided during this period are being funded solely through non-federal sources and do not represent activities of the USDA Circuit Rider Program.
• You may continue to contact your Circuit Rider as usual for assistance with system emergencies, troubleshooting, or operational support.

We will notify you immediately when USDA federal funding is reinstated and the regular Circuit Rider Program resumes full operation.

Thank you for your understanding and for your continued support of SDARWS and the Rural Water mission.

Sincerely,
​
Jeremiah Corbin
Executive Director
South Dakota Association of Rural Water Systems

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