- This event has passed.
Comments due on Sawbuck Timber Sale EA
October 17, 2025 @ 11:50 pm - 11:59 pm
Comments due on Sawbuck Timber Sale EA, Friday October 17th
The Mystic District of the Black Hills National Forest has released the preliminary environmental assessment (EA) for the Sawbuck Forest Management Project. Documents can be found at the following web address: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/projects/67518.
The District says:
“We are proposing conifer thinning, timber stand improvement, prescribed fire, planting efforts, as well as enhancements to watersheds, riparian areas, and wildlife habitats.”
Quote from the Draft EA:
‘The Sawbuck project area exhibits diverse ecological characteristics. The northern extent of this project area features steep slopes, rocky outcrops, streams, lush biodiverse
habitats, and smaller meadows nestled within rugged drainages. This area includes the North Fork Castle Creek Botanical and Research Natural Area (RNA) and Black Fox Botanical Area. The central area of this project is characterized by expansive meadows, steep drainages, rocky outcrops, moderately sloped forested hills, intermittent streams, and a more arid landscape than the northern area. This area includes the McIntosh Botanical Area, Historic Flag Mountain Lookout, and Pe’Sla Tribal Trust Lands. Management Direction.’
habitats, and smaller meadows nestled within rugged drainages. This area includes the North Fork Castle Creek Botanical and Research Natural Area (RNA) and Black Fox Botanical Area. The central area of this project is characterized by expansive meadows, steep drainages, rocky outcrops, moderately sloped forested hills, intermittent streams, and a more arid landscape than the northern area. This area includes the McIntosh Botanical Area, Historic Flag Mountain Lookout, and Pe’Sla Tribal Trust Lands. Management Direction.’
Electronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the Comment Reviewing Officer online at https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=67518. An automated response should confirm your electronic comment has been received. Comments can also be sent via U.S. mail to Mystic Ranger District Office, Attn: Sawbuck Project, 8221 S. Mount Rushmore Rd., Rapid City, SD, 57702 or by fax at 605-343-7134.