As a basic teacher's guide to the study of plants in their environment, this document serves primarily as a starting point for outdoor education with an American Indian emphasis in the State of South Dakota. The State is divided into three broad environmental categories or "biotic communities" (Prairie and Plains, Woodlands, and Wet Places); lists of plants found in each of these biotic communities are grouped under the further classifications of Trees, Shrubs and Woody Vines, Forbs, and Grasses. Each plant listed is identified by both common and scientific names. Detailed annotations following each definition emphasize the American Indian usage and/or knowledge of the plant described. An index is provided. (JC)