S.D. Codified Laws § 46A-5-12
The board of directors may take conveyances or other assurances for all property acquired by it under the provisions of chapters 46A-4 to 46A-7, inclusive, in the name of the irrigation district, for the uses and purposes provided in this chapter. The board may institute and maintain any actions and proceedings at law or in equity necessary or proper in order to carry out fully the provisions of chapters 46A-4 to 46A-7, inclusive, and to enforce, maintain, protect, or preserve any rights, privileges, and immunities created by those chapters or acquired in pursuance of such rights, privileges, and immunities. In all actions or proceedings the board may sue, appear, and defend, in person or by attorney, and in the name of the irrigation district.
SDCL 46A-5-12