Here is the latest South Dakota news from The Associated Press

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) Medical industry officials say size matters in health care, and that could be one reason for merger talks between Sioux Falls-based Sanford Health and Fargo-based MeritCare. Officials of the two hospitals say the talks are exploratory.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) The U.S. Department of Agriculture is sharing new data about Agricultural land use at the watershed level. Statistics Service officials say many agricultural and environmental interests have been looking for such data.

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) A new program will help first-time home buyers in South Dakota come up with a down payment and closing costs. The South Dakota Housing Development Authority says its Advance Tax Credit Loan Program allows borrowers to use part of their federal First-Time Home Buyer Tax Credit for the costs.

YANKTON, S.D. (AP) Another state fishing record has fallen.

Matt Sarha of Gayville caught a 14-pound hybrid bass in the Missouri River near Yankton. The fish is a cross between a white bass and a striped bass. It's the fifth state fishing record to fall this year.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 06-22-09 0630CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list