The Dakota Scout, a locally owned newspaper, has reached its 200th edition. Founded in 2022 by Joe Sneve and Jonathan Ellis, the newspaper has made a name for itself in South Dakota with its commitment to local journalism and government transparency.

A New Model for Local News

The Scout’s hybrid model combines digital-first reporting with a free weekly print edition, distributed to grocery stores, coffee shops, and other locations across eastern South Dakota. This approach has allowed the newspaper to build a loyal following and expand its reach beyond its print footprint.

The newspaper has also been at the forefront of government transparency, successfully defending its right to publish legal notices and obtaining records of taxpayer-funded purchasing card spending by the state’s governor and staff.

A Growing Presence in South Dakota

The Dakota Scout has expanded into new territories, including Brookings, and has earned official newspaper designations in Minnehaha and Lincoln counties. The newspaper has also built a reputation for watchdog reporting on politics, government, and business.

With over 13,000 subscribers and hundreds of thousands of readers each month, The Dakota Scout has become a trusted source for local news and information in South Dakota. Its success has also paved the way for other independent news organizations in the state, including the Aberdeen Insider, Watertown Current, Brookings Beacon, and Rapid City Post.

Original reporting: The Dakota Scout (Sioux Falls) — read the source article.