SDEMA has a varied membership consisting of Emergency Managers from local and state jurisdictions, local and state response agencies as well as participation from agencies that provide support to Emergency Management personnel, such as the Red Cross and the National Weather Service. This vast membership allows for collaboration and communication during the annual SDEMA conference and throughout the year.

Benefits of Membership

• On the job help. Often times Emergency Managers are in an office of 1 person, and the emergency management function may not be your only job. Being a part of SDEMA gives you quick access to other professionals doing the same functions you are to get on the job help. 
• Camaraderie and support during times of disaster. As a member you have direct access to contact information during times of calm and in times of disaster, when you may need it the most. 
• An avenue for continued growth. As a member you have the opportunity to attend trainings and annual conference and the ability to be elected to serve on the SDEMA Board to affect emergency management change in South Dakota.

• Active Member: $30 per person
  Active membership in the Association shall only be extended to representatives of State and Local Governments who serve as a paid employee or volunteer of an Emergency Management Program and other individuals professionally engaged in emergency management activities within the territorial limits of South Dakota with full rights to vote and hold office.
  
  
• Corporate Member: $75
  Corporate sponsorship may be accepted from any industrial, commercial, educational association, or government organization having an active interest in promoting and participating in Emergency Management and it’s functions. May not hold office or vote.

• Lifetime Member*: $0
  Life membership may be accorded any active member who has at least (Ten) 10 years’ membership in the Association and is no longer associated with a State or Local Organization in the capacity that would make them eligible for active membership. Requests for life membership must be submitted in writing and voted upon by the membership and approved by two-thirds (2/3) of members present at the annual meeting. Once granted, the life member shall have the full rights of an active member.
  *Must be nominated by the association to be a lifetime member.
  
  

• Honorary Member*: $0
  Honorary membership may be awarded annually to any South Dakota citizen for outstanding contributions toward the advancement of Emergency Management Programs within South Dakota. May not hold office or vote.
  *Must be nominated by the association to be a lifetime member.