Media Relations Activity

In addition to paid media efforts in the winter season strategy, the media relations team works proactively in the pursuit of earned media exposure to drive consumer travel choices to South Dakota. Paid and earned media efforts, when working in unison, maximize our marketing budget and increase impact in our target markets.

The team has planned a cohesive strategy that includes monthly contact to key journalists in each of the target markets, as well as the outdoor niche market. Frequent communication is crucial when building a strong relationship with media contacts.

Winter Marketing Press Release
The South Dakota Office of Tourism partnered with Walt Disney Pictures to promote National Treasure: Book of Secrets. The film, released on December 21, was filmed partially in South Dakota during the spring of 2007. Promotional efforts include online web content and package giveaways and prizes, in both domestic and international markets.

Industry Releases on MediaSD.com
In an effort to help visitor industry partners spread their media message, the Office of Tourism posts industry press releases to www.MediaSD.com. Dozens of releases are available one click off the www.MediaSD.com homepage. To get your releases posted, simply e-mail them to wanda.goodman@state.sd.us.

South Dakota Makes Headlines
The Office of Tourism arranges several media hostings each year as we strive to receive objective third party endorsements of our product, South Dakota. The celebrities, producers, editors and writers Tourism hosts take the South Dakota story and their first-hand experiences to the airwaves and pages of major publications.

“Explore National Treasure: Book of Secrets”
Movie Traveler online at www.TravelSD.com
A behind the scenes look at the filming locations, including Mount Rushmore and Sylvan Lake.

“On the Money”
CNBC
Air Date: December 6, 2006
Hosted: Nov. 16, 2007

Visit our Media Web site: www.MediaSD.com