Turning the Tide for TNR: Sioux Falls’ Game-Changing Ordinance, Featuring Mat Tougas, Founder and President of Sioux Empire TNR

"We want to be the example that proves you should never give up. No matter where you are, if you keep pushing, you can make change happen."

This episode is sponsored-in-part by Maddie’s Fund.

In this episode, host Stacy LeBaron welcomes Mat Tougas of the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition back for an exciting update on the fight for trap-neuter-return (TNR) in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Since his last appearance on the podcast, Mat and his coalition have made major strides—convincing city officials to support an ordinance that will formally allow and protect TNR efforts within the city.

Mat shares how persistence, education, and coalition-building helped turn skeptics into supporters, including local lawmakers and the Humane Society. He discusses the upcoming city council vote, the potential for a dedicated TNR veterinarian, and the challenges of implementing a sustainable community cat program. He also highlights how Sioux Falls’ success could inspire neighboring cities to adopt similar policies, ultimately leading to statewide progress for cat welfare.

If you’re looking for inspiration on how to advocate for TNR in your community, this episode is a must-listen.

Press Play Now For:

• How the Sioux Empire TNR Coalition won city council support for TNR
• The critical role of public education in changing attitudes toward community cats
• How TNR is helping the local Humane Society work toward no-kill status
• The importance of having a dedicated veterinarian for TNR programs
• What’s next for Sioux Falls and how the ordinance could influence other cities
• The value of coalition-building in advancing animal welfare initiatives
• Tips for overcoming opposition and pushing for legislative change

Resources & Links:

• Sioux Empire TNR – Learn more about Mat’s organization and how to get involved. (https://siouxempiretnr.org/)

Sponsor Links:

• Maddie's Fund (https://www.communitycatspodcast.com/maddies605)

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