Research is Industry

On Monday, August 26th we'll hear how the Sanford Underground Research Facility is making a substantial impact on South Dakota’s economy. The Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) is America’s underground lab. Their mission is to advance world class science and inspire learning across generations. Rotarian Dana Dykhouse will moderate a conversation with Sanford Underground Research Facility staff members: Mike Headley, Executive Director & South Dakota Science and Technology Authority Laboratory Director, Jaret Heise, Director of Science; and Nicol Reiner, Director of Education & Outreach.

SURF hosts cutting-edge research across multiple disciplines, including physics, geology, biology and engineering. The lab hosts 30 experiments that are contributing to the fundamental understanding of our universe, advancing our nation’s energy independence, exploring life in extreme environments, and building a foundation for technological advancement around the world.

SURF plays a vital role in inspiring the next generation of STEM professionals with a robust education and outreach program that reaches 16,000 - 20,000 South Dakota students and 400 teachers annually.

Collaborators at SURF include over 2,000 scientists from more than 200 institutions and universities worldwide. The work at SURF is possible thanks to support from hundreds of South Dakota businesses, that provide products and services needed to keep the world-class facility operational. SURF is generating a $2B economic impact on South Dakota this decade, with ongoing future experiments that will continue to inspire and push the boundaries of human knowledge for decades to come.

The buffet lunch will be available beginning at 11:30 am. The menu will be Create Your Own Burrito Bowl, Tossed Salad, Fresh Fruit and Dessert. RSVP and online payment is required by 5 pm on Wednesday, August 21st. If you miss the deadline, please still join us for Rotary, but lunch may not be available.

The presentation, at the club’s regular weekly meeting, will be held at the Holiday Inn City Centre, Sioux Falls and will begin at noon. All Downtown Sioux Falls Rotary Club programs are open only to Rotarians and their guests. All programs are subject to the club's Privacy Policy. Local media are invited to attend to record the session.



Rotary International is one of the premier service organizations in the world. The Rotary Club of Downtown Sioux Falls is among the largest 25 clubs in the world. For more information on how to become a mentor or involve your organization in mentoring visit Sioux52.org.