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X-WR-CALNAME:Prairie Hills Audubon Society
X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://phas-wsd.org
X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Prairie Hills Audubon Society
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TZID:America/Denver
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DTSTART:20240310T090000
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250417T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250417T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250411T183629Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250414T034911Z
UID:18288-1744933800-1744934340@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to comment on BHNF's Frass Forest Health Project Environmental Assessment;
DESCRIPTION:Deadline to comment on BHNF’s Frass Forest Health Project Environmental Assessment;\n “This project is to primarily salvage dead/dying timber and includes the installation of wildfire fuel breaks on National Forest Service lands in an area to the east of Pringle\, SD\, in Custer County\, SD.”  or “Project to primarily salvage harvest beetle infected and/or killed trees to reduce the extent of a rapidly spreading bark beetle infestation and recover value of beetle-hit trees; increase forest health resiliency and reduce risk of wildfire.” \nPlease be aware that scoping and comments are combined in this project: because of the urgency of salvage operations\, the opportunity to comment will be seven days\, from 4/11/2025-4/17/2025. \n\nThe most direct link to comment is at: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=67387\nTo download information on the project  including a draft EA – https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67387\n\nIf you experience technical difficulties—due to the fact that Black Hills National Forest is transitioning to a new address—please try the following: visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/blackhills\nand search for “Projects” – and follow the links to the Frass Forest Health Project. Once on the project page\, the link to Comment/Object can be found under the “Get Connected” tab.\n\n Person who sent out information on this project is Anita Swanson\, Hell Canyon Ranger District anita.swanson@usda.gov\, 605-673-9360 \nThey have only given 7 days notice on this project
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-bhnfs-frass-forest-health-project-environmental-assessment/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250414T215000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250414T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250414T041700Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250414T055003Z
UID:18331-1744667400-1744667940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:April 14th (or 13th) is the  deadline to comment on ACE rules for Energy Emergency process for Sec 404 of the Clean Water Act
DESCRIPTION:April 14th (or 13th) is the  deadline to comment on Army Corps of Engineer’s (ACE) rules for Energy Emergency process for Sec 404 of the Clean Water Act \n Special Public Notice National Energy Emergency E.O. 14156 – use\nof emergency processing procedures for Energy Emergency permits and use of\n36 CFR 800.12(b)(2)\n\nThe Omaha District [ACE] posted a special public notice\n<https://www.nwo.usace.army.mil/Media/Public-Notices/Article/4147898/special-public-notice-for-special-emergency-processing-procedures-under-eo-1415/>\nto our [ACE] website on April 7\, 2025 for the use of the special emergency\nprocessing procedures for activities covered by the National Energy\nEmergency declared in Executive Order (EO) 14156\n<https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/29/2025-02003/declaring-a-national-energy-emergency>    for Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act and Section 404 of the Clean Water Act permits\, which includes use of existing emergency procedures for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. \n\nQuote from cited document:\n” Special Public Notice for SPECIAL EMERGENCY PROCESSING PROCEDURES UNDER E.O. 14156 IN MONTANA\, NEBRASKA\, NORTH DAKOTA\, SOUTH DAKOTA\, AND WYOMING FOR SECTION 10 RIVERS AND HARBORS ACT AND SECTION 404 CLEAN WATER ACT PERMITS ISSUE DATE: April 7\, 2025\nTO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: The purpose of this notice is to advise the public that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)\, Northwestern Division has approved the use of special emergency processing procedures by the Omaha District in accordance with 33 CFR § 325.2(e)(4) for activities covered by the National Energy Emergency declared in Executive Order (EO) 14156. That EO was issued on January 20\, 2025\, under the President’s legal authorities\, including the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. §§ 1601 et seq.) and 3 USC § 301. For the reasons stated in Section 1 of EO 14156\, the President has found that insufficient energy production\, transportation\, refining\, and generation constitutes an unusual and extraordinary threat to our Nation’s economy\, national security\, and foreign policy and declared a national emergency on the basis of those findings. The President has directed agencies to use\, to the fullest extent possible and consistent with applicable law\, emergency USACE permitting provisions to facilitate the Nation’s energy supply. These special emergency processing procedures have been approved for activities associated with the identification\, siting\, production\, transportation\, refining\, and generation of domestic energy sources\, including energy infrastructure\, that require Department of the Army authorization under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899\, Section 404 of the Clean Water Act\, and/or Section 103 of the Marine Research\, Protection\, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972\, as amended\, where there would be an unacceptable hazard to life\, a significant loss\nof property\, or an immediate\, unforeseen\, and significant economic hardship if the action\nrequiring a permit is not undertaken within a time period less than the normal time needed to process the application under standard procedures\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTo facilitate quick and effective communication given the 7-day comment\nperiod under 800.12(b)(2) ( https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-36/chapter-VIII/part-800/subpart-B/section-800.12 ) the Omaha District intends to submit Section 106\ndocumentation electronically. Emails regarding Section 106 for E.O. 14156\nprojects will include “E.O. 14156” in the subject line\n=============\n\nHere is legal review of Trumps attempt to change regulations for energy emergency:\nhttps://blogs.law.columbia.edu/climatechange/2025/02/14/demystifying-president-trumps-national-energy-emergency-and-the-scope-of-emergency-authority/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/april-14th-or-13th-is-the-deadline-to-comment-on-ace-rules-for-energy-emergency-process-for-sec-404-of-the-clean-water-act/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250410T180000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250120T074857Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T161600Z
UID:16580-1744272000-1744308000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Western SD Hydrology Conference 2025
DESCRIPTION:The 2025 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference will be held on Thursday April \n10\, 2025\, at the Monument in Rapid City – 8am – 6pm MDT \nRegistration information: \nRegistration will open on February 5\, 2025\, at the conference Eventbrite website. \nProfessional development hours will be available to interested parcipants for sessions \nattended. Registration fees include lunch and are $85 for professionals and $30 for \nstudents and general public.  For draft agenda and registration visit: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2025-western-south-dakota-hydrology-conference-tickets-1027131055637?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl \n  \n-Organized by the National Weather Service\, RESPEC\, South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources\, South Dakota School of Mines and Technology\, U.S. Geological Survey\, and West Dakota Water Development District.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/western-sd-hydrology-conference-2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250409T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250409T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250408T160835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250408T172719Z
UID:18229-1744223400-1744228800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:PHAS Monthly Board Meeting
DESCRIPTION:PHAS Monthly Board Meeting\, these are held by Zoom at 6:30 pm.  They are open to members and non-member friends by invitation. Contact Nancy if you want to come \n605-787-6466\, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com. \nThese are supposed to occur on the second Wednesday of the month but can be moved to different day if quorum can’t be attained\, often then moved to the 3rd Wednesday or Thursday.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-board-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250409T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250409T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250311T192611Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T192820Z
UID:17825-1744200000-1744214400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD Weed & Pest Control Commission April Meeting
DESCRIPTION:SD Weed & Pest Control Commission April Meeting \nin Pierre at Capitol Lake Visitors Center \nStart Date/Time: 04/09/2025 01:00 PM  CT\nEnd Date/Time: 04/09/2025 05:00 PM CT \n  \nhttps://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=109
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-weed-pest-control-commission-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250408T070000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250408T190000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250330T180251Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250330T180415Z
UID:18087-1744095600-1744138800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Some Municipal and  School Board elections can occur on 4/8/25
DESCRIPTION:In SD\, Municipal and School Board elections can occur on three days (4/8/25\, 6/3/25\, 6/17/25) \, depending on the City or School Boards choices from the date options the SOS offers. \nhttps://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/assets/2025MunicipalElectionCalendar.pdf \nhttps://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/assets/2025%20Documents/2025SchoolElectionCalendar.pdf \nIn Lawrence County – Spearfish\, Lead & Deadwood municipal elections happen and also Lead-Deadwood School Board Elections. \nI don’t know all the other towns or school boards holding elections on April 8th in SD\, \nbut in Meade County  – Summerset and Sturgis may chose that first date
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/some-municipal-and-school-board-elections-can-occur-on-4-8-25/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250407T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250407T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250407T190559Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T190726Z
UID:18194-1743984000-1744027200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:International Beaver Day - April 7th
DESCRIPTION:International Beaver Day is celebrated annually on April 7. The holiday was created in 2009 by Beavers Wetlands & Wildlife (B.W.W.\,) a non-profit organization with members in the United States\, Canada\, and other countries. Beavers are a unique and important keystone species\, having a great impact on the ecosystem.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-beaver-day-april-7th/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250405T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250405T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250402T182129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250402T182225Z
UID:18149-1743854400-1743861600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:50501 Protest Rapid City\, near City Hall 12-2 pm "Remove\, Reverse\, Reclaim
DESCRIPTION:50501 Protest in Rapid City\, near City Hall 12-2 pm\, Title “Remove\, Reverse\, Reclaim \nQuote from promotion: \n“Unite against oppression\, dictatorship \nRapid City will join with cities throughout the nation to defend freedom and protect our future at a peaceful protest\, from noon-2 pm Saturday\, April 5\, on public sidewalks outside City Hall on Omaha Street. \n“This is our moment\,” organizers say. “We will NOT sit back while our rights\, our democracy and our future are threatened.” \nThere is another protest at 11 am-1 pm at Founders Park\, “Hands off” by Mobilize and Indivisible.  See event announcement on this calendar
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/50501-protest-rapid-city-near-city-hall-12-2-pmremove-reverse-reclaim/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250405T110000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250405T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250327T211235Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250331T192834Z
UID:18026-1743850800-1743861600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:"Hands Off" mobilization - National Protests/events on 4/5/25
DESCRIPTION:NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION – SATURDAY\, APRIL 5\n“Hands Off” mobilization – National Protests/events on 4/5/25- \nQuote from the organizing web page: “Donald Trump and Elon Musk think this country belongs to them. They’re taking everything they can get their hands on\, and daring the world to stop them. On Saturday\, April 5th\, we’re taking to the streets nationwide to fight back with a clear message: Hands off!”….. \nEvents are being held in Rapid City\, Sioux Falls\, Brookings and Pierre starting at 11 am or 12 am local times and each event may last for an hour or two. \nHands Off! Rapid City Fights Back\nThis is the link to the announcement of Founders Park at 11 am from Mobilize web site. It is still there Monday morning 3/31/25. \nhttps://www.mobilize.us/handsoff/event/765517/ \n\nSat\, Apr 5\n\n\n11:00 AM — 1:00 PM MDT\n\n\nFounders Park\nRapid City\, SD 57701\n=====\n\nNational Web site – where you can see a map of events nationwide\, however we have posted a view of that map to this notice:\nhttps://handsoff2025.com/?utm_source=centerforbiologicaldiversity&emci=93c8425c-b805-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&emdi=892bd342-380b-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&ceid=586032 \nWe have been told verbally by a person claiming to being helping organize the Rapid City event\,  that the event in Rapid City will be a noon and at another location. We need to verify this statement and confirm time/location of event on Saturday.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/handsoff-mobilization-national-protests-events-on-4-5-25/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250403T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250404T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250123T194538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250401T093214Z
UID:16878-1743681600-1743764400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD Game\, Fish and Parks Commission April Meeting at Pierre\, SD and Zoom link
DESCRIPTION:SD Game\, Fish and Parks Hybrid Commission April Meeting at Pierre\, SD and via Zoom link \nThe meeting will start  at 1 pm CT on Thursday and end at noon CT (or earlier)  on Friday. \nZoom Webinar: Click here to join the meeting \,\n Meeting ID: 912 6417 6710\, Passcode: 970458\,\nCall In: +16699009128\,\,91264176710# US\,\nVideo Conference ID: 91264176710@zoomcrc.com\,\nThe agenda and various information on the meeting is or will be posted to this web page before the meeting- \nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ \nAgenda (this has the Zoom links): \nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/April_Agenda_Final.pdf \nPublic Comments Already received: \nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/PublicCommissionComments.pdf \nThe written comment deadline was  Sunday (3/30/25) just before midnight CT.  Go to March 30th alert on how to comment to Commission. \nApril written comment sending alert\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/2025-03-30/\nCommission’s submit public comment link –\nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/\n  \nFolks can testify at 2 pm at hearing and/or open forum in person or by Zoom.  It is suggested you e-mail GFP staff person (Gail Buus at gail.buus@state.sd.us) in advance of the meeting to request remote testifying opportunity\, but it is not required\, as they always ask if anyone not registered wants to speak.  You can get 3 minutes at the hearing on each rule finalization you wish to speak on and at the “Open Forum”. During hearings on finalizations you can only testify on the rule change proposal. During “Open Forum” you can testify on anything. Finalization hearings precede the Open Forum. \nAlso go to the Event’s Calendar posting on March 6-7th meeting for more information on issues. After the meetings we post a summary of what happened and the issues:.- https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-sd-and-zoom/ \nAlso visit our mt. lion action alert web page \nIssues we are concerned about for 4/3/25 \n1.  Allowing hound hunting of lions on the prairie unit to originate on public and private land\, with consent of owner. This would be a change from the status quo which allows hound hunting on private land and  only on public land if the chase moves  from private to public land.  We oppose this rule change and urge folks to write or testify in opposition to this. Go to our web site on Mt Lions for talking points. \nLink to PHAS comment letter on Mt.Lion Season proposal:   https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Mt-Lion-PHAS-Comment-325_F.pdf \n2. Allowing a rocky mountain sheep to be shot in the Deadwood unit – concern is that population is too low to support killing one. We are investigating this rule change. \n3. Allow the SDGFP  hunting area that supports the west river prairie elk season to be increased to overlap west river Lakota Reservations\, so Caucasians can hunt elk on private land in-holdings within the reservations.  The tribes oppose this. At the public hearing on 3/6/25 representatives from Lower Brule Sioux Tribe\, Rosebud Sioux Tribe\, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and Oglala Sioux Tribes spoke against the rule change. We are investigating this rule change. \nLink to PHAS comment letter on Prairie Elk Season proposal  –https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/prairie-Elk-comment-PHAS-F.pdf
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-april-meeting-at-pierre-sd-and-zoom-link/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250403T115000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250403T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250311T204926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T033000Z
UID:17837-1743681000-1743724740@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:BHNF Buffalo Forest Health project's scoping deadline
DESCRIPTION:Notice was published in the Pioneer on March 4th. BHNF Buffalo Forest Health project’s scoping deadline would thus be Thursday April 3rd. \n\n\n\n\n\n\nA detailed project description and project maps are available for review on the project website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67248.  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nThe preferred method is to submit comments by visiting the Buffalo project website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67248) and clicking on the “Comment/Object on Project” link.  You may also submit comments via email to Steve Kozel\, Northern Hills District Ranger (steven.kozel@usda.gov) or Chris Stores\, Northern Hills Ranger District resource planner (chris.stores@usda.gov)\, via fax at (605) 642-4156\, or via US mail at:
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-buffalo-vegetation-management-projects-scoping-deadline/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250402T165900
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250402T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250327T233100Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T144947Z
UID:18034-1743613140-1743613200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Wyoming Hunting seasons comment deadline
DESCRIPTION:The public comment period for Chapters 2 (General Hunting) \, 5 (Antelope) \, 6 (Deer)\, 7 (Elk)\, 8 (Moose)\, 9 (Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goat)\, 11 (Upland Bird and Small Game)\, 14 (Migratory Game Bird & Light Goose)\, 15 (Wild Bison) and 20 (Wild Turkey) is now open through 5:00 p.m. on April 2\, 2025.\n  \nCopies of the proposed regulations are available on the Game and Fish public meeting webpage. In addition\, biologists’ presentations containing information on season proposals for each district will be posted on this page by March 22. \nInterested public can review the proposed written regulations and presentations before submitting public comments through 5:00 pm April 2. \nComments can be made on the public meeting webpage\, posting on-line\, submitted in person at meetings or by mailing comments to Wyoming Game and Fish Department\, Regulations\, 3030 Energy Lane\, Casper\, WY 82604.   We have not verified this year yet\, but in the past years WGFD deadlines\, for submissions that were sent by mail\,  needed receipt in Casper on the deadline. \nPOSITIONS OF PHAS. \nOne should object to the greater sage grouse hunting season.  The greater sage grouse should be federally listed under the ESA\, but congress has passed riders on various bills\, outlawing ESA listing. \nOn should object to dusky grouse hunting in the Black Hills/Bearlodge areas of the Black Hills.  The dusky grouse is believed extirpated from the Black Hills/Bearlodge. Several SDGFP reintroduction efforts failed.  PHAS has received an unverified sighting of a dusky grouse south of Tinton\, SD.  There should be no hunting of dusky grouse in the Black Hills.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-hunting-seasons-comment-deadline/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250330T225000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250330T225900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250123T194759Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T164710Z
UID:16880-1743375000-1743375540@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Written Comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission meeting on Thursday
DESCRIPTION:March 30th is the written Comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission meeting that will occur on Thursday\, April 3rd\, 2025. \nComments are due just before midnight the Sunday night (3/30/25)  before the Commission \nCommission’s submit public comment link –\nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/\n\n\nUnless you want to communicate directly with each Commissioner  (those comments will not be in the public record)–  https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/members/  (there is no deadline). You can see phones and home address at this link.  Here are likely e-mails for them. \n“Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us” <Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us>\, “Jon.Locken@state.sd.us” <Jon.Locken@state.sd.us>\,  “Travis.Bies@state.sd.us” <Travis.Bies@state.sd.us>\, “Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us” <Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us>\, “Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us” <Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us>  \nThe three new commissioners  e-mails likely are: \nJim.White@state.sd.us\, \, Bruce.Cull@state.sd.us\, Travis.Theel@state.sd.us\, \n\n===========\nFor more info on issues go to March or April Commission meeting event alerts at:\n\nMarch\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-sd-and-zoom/\n\nApril meeting alert\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-april-meeting-at-pierre-sd-and-zoom-link/\n\n\nWe may post more information when closer to the meeting
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-for-the-sdgfp-commission-meeting-on-thursday/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250328T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250328T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250321T162445Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250327T205352Z
UID:17966-1743186600-1743195600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:PHAS members working meeting  - eve March 28th Zoom
DESCRIPTION:PHAS members working/discussion meeting  March 28th evening by Zoom \nThis meeting will be by Zoom and will start at 6:30 pm MT\,  This will be to discuss actions needing to be taken on various campaigns of PHAS and any conservation concerns brought forward by members/friends. It is not a meeting with much for formal presentations – but mostly just discussion of participants. \nScroll down past Zoom codes  for potential/draft agenda \n──────────Nancy Hilding is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/87181532177?pwd=RGpOaWFHZ09YTG9SYlhWR0FKRjdodz09Meeting ID: 871 8153 2177Passcode: 000770—One tap mobile+12532158782\,\,87181532177#\,\,\,\,*000770# US (Tacoma)+13462487799\,\,87181532177#\,\,\,\,*000770# US (Houston)—Dial by your location (as far as we know all work in Western SD\, but is alleged reception better if phone # close to you)• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)• +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)• +1 669 444 9171 US• +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)• +1 719 359 4580 US• +1 253 205 0468 US• +1 646 931 3860 US• +1 689 278 1000 US• +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)• +1 305 224 1968 US• +1 309 205 3325 US• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)• +1 360 209 5623 US• +1 386 347 5053 US• +1 507 473 4847 US• +1 564 217 2000 USMeeting ID: 871 8153 2177Passcode: 000770Find your local number:https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbO99EH7K \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n===========\n===\n\n\nPotential Agenda (order of topics can be rearranged).\n\n1. Topics requested by attendees\n \nPredators/Omnivores\n1. Mt lions in SD\, Wyo and NE\, but especially SD’s prairie unit (SDGFP Hearing 4/3/25\, Writen comment deadline 3/30)\, Wyoming triennial likely April-July\, NE\, Likely June\, SD biennial review likely July-Sept.\n2..SD hunting seasons for prairie elk – conflict with tribal wishes (SDGFP Hearing4/3/25\, Comment deadline 3/30)\n3. Nest Predator Bounty Program\n4. Beaver Petition — Beaver Policy (potential petition submission in early May)\n5. Bears in the Bear Lodge  (Written comment deadline on Wyo Bear Season April 2nd)\n6. Wolves and ESA?\n\nTIME PERMITTING OTHER TOPICS\n———–\n1.Trump evisceration of NEPA – CEQ regulations – Trump various adverse actions ?ESA\, gutting of staff of agencies?\n2. April 5th protest organized by CBD & others (Brookings\, Sioux Falls thus far)  4/5/25\n3. Referendum and Initiative issues – Lawerence County hearing and  HB 1169 veto by Rhoden\n4. Other topics ? BHNF projects/logging?\n5. upcoming events of PHAS or NAS?  Field trip 1st Sat May\, ESD May 16th\, Bird Bash May 17th
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-members-working-meeting-_-march-28th-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T215000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250322T091804Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250328T023550Z
UID:17977-1743112200-1743112740@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to comment on Trump CEQ Rules (NEPA) Evisceration
DESCRIPTION:Deadline to comment on Trump CEQ Rules (NEPA) Evisceration 3/27/25 \nFor more information go to rule making proposal – \nhttps://www.regulations.gov/document/CEQ-2025-0002-0001 \nTemporary Guidance after CEQ rules revoked- \nhttps://ceq.doe.gov/docs/ceq-regulations-and-guidance/CEQ-Memo-Implementation-of-NEPA-02.19.2025.pdf \nLink to Earth Justice’s pre-fab on-line comment letter (simple to send) \nhttps://earthjustice.org/action/polluting-industries-are-trying-to-silence-communities?ms=web \nThe National Audubon Society has a pre-fab on-line letter you can send on rule making (simple to send): \nhttps://act.audubon.org/a/nepa-2025?contactdata=7lBwMlpDJvi5/08qyvwAr+CzjopOIYCrJeVl4Zxcc+pAZNwXVN1IXB6Y0wIQVBaAxfuAVJuKYazEl5RYPrPHddKuwNLKGquQ9CldE2AGFAcR0Rc4O6opc8dEr8X6X2y6ryZtzv00hH7UXZP0hHVYzy2ipTRgH+IJUS1AqcEyoXGPzpK3EbRkX0lkJ/vzknclGaOqCbFwomzZTmN/rpOAAjDhj+EIPbTk6n//FjictSFWZwwNXPoBwN3QLXBJrwAqfXBYaM7xGjFOPhpjgsmB3hgA1gfqmdu5DmjCzOnvTJc9BFi8PWyfDsi1rOxnbbo8&ms=policy-adv-email-ea-x-advocacy_20250319_(nas)_20250319_alert-nepa_old&utm_source=ea&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=advocacy_20250319_(nas)_20250319_alert-nepa_old&emci=f3039551-1d04-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&emdi=bfe8e6d6-7006-f011-90cd-0022482a9fb7&ceid=4030932 \n  \nQuote from Earth Justice who offer a sign on letter for groups: \n“The Trump administration issued an Interim Final Rule revoking the White House Council on Environmental Quality’s regulations implementing the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). Those regulations apply to over 80 agencies in the federal government and our organizations\, our communities\, rely on them to ensure we have a say in how decisions are made about how infrastructure is built\, how taxpayer dollars are spent\, and how public lands and resources are managed. \nThe implications of this action are sweeping and severe – it will now be up to individual agencies to determine how to comply with NEPA\, what impacts to disclose\, and what level of public input is required. Worse yet\, in guidance issued with the revocation of the regulations\, the Trump administration urged agencies to use the controversial 2020 regulations issued during the first Trump administration. Over 325 organizations submitted detailed comments strenuously opposing those regulations and they were rightly subject to multiple lawsuits. The guidance the White House issued goes even further in rolling back the review of environmental and health impacts by the federal government by explicitly stating that reviews “should not include an environmental justice analysis.”” \n\nARTICLES: \nThe Future of NEPA Implementation Without CEQ Regulations https://natlawreview.com/article/future-nepa-implementation-without-ceq-regulations Trump hands off NEPA to agencies\nhttps://www.eenews.net/articles/trump-hands-off-nepa-to-agencies/ \nThe CEQ has No Clothes: The End of CEQ’s NEPA Regulations and the Future of NEPA Practice\nhttps://www.jdsupra.com/legalnews/the-ceq-has-no-clothes-the-end-of-ceq-s-2447381/\n  \nIf you are a from a group\, who want access to an EarthJustice sign-on letter on this rule\, ask Nancy at 605-787-6466 or phas.wsd@rapidnet.com for the link to read and sign the letter. 3/25/25 COB deadline for sign on letter.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-trump-ceq-rules-nepa-evisceration/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250320T175926Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T163210Z
UID:17919-1743098400-1743109200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Sierra Club's Lobbyist's review of 2025 SD Legislature
DESCRIPTION:Sierra Club’s Lobbyist’s review of 2025 SD Legislature \nThis will be by Zoom at 6:00 pm MT \, \nThe National Sierra Club’s state liaison to our region is Eric Willadsen\, and he may be on the \nprogram\, too. \nThere is a Zoom link. \n[https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85694938981] \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sierra-clubs-lobbyists-review-of-2025-sd-legislature/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250327T190000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250311T213026Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T213700Z
UID:17853-1743091200-1743102000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Wyoming Game & Fish Sundance/Newcastle  public meeting on hunting season proposals
DESCRIPTION:Wyoming Game & Fish Sundance public meeting on hunting season proposals \nYou are invited to one or more of the following meetings: \n  \n\nMarch 19\, 2025 6:00 PM Casper Casper Game and Fish Regional office (3030 Energy Lane)\nMarch 20\, 2025 6:00 PM Glenrock Converse County Library (506 S 4th St)\nMarch 26\, 2025 6:00 PM Lusk Niobrara County Fairgrounds\, Shooting Sports Building (4080 US-20)\nMarch 27\, 2025 4:00 PM Newcastle Pinnacle Bank Conference Room (1401 Washington Blvd)\nMarch 27\, 2025 7:00 PM Sundance Crook County Courthouse Basement (309 Cleveland St)\nMarch 31\, 2025 6:00 PM Douglas Converse County Library (300 E Walnut St)\n\nCopies of the proposed regulations are available on the Game and Fish public meeting webpage. In addition\, biologists’ presentations containing information on season proposals for each district will be posted on this page by March 22. \n  \nInterested public can review the proposed written regulations and presentations before submitting public comments through 5:00 pm April 2. Comments can be made on the public meeting webpage\, in person at meetings or by mailing comments to Wyoming Game and Fish Department\, Regulations\, 3030 Energy Lane\, Casper\, WY 82604. \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-game-fish-sundance-newcastle-public-meeting-on-hunting-season-proposals/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250326T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250326T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250316T012311Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250324T173640Z
UID:17904-1742977800-1742986800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Trial about requiring referendum on Zoning Ordinance 24-05
DESCRIPTION:Trial about requiring referendum on Zoning Ordinance 24-05 \nIt is at the Deadwood Court House  at 9 am\, however it is suggested folks arrive 15-30 minutes early.  We don’t know how long it will last\, but have guessed \nat 2 hours. \nIt used to be that in Lawrence County\, SD\, conditional use permits (CUPs) were decided on by the County Commission. In November 2024\, the Commission voted to make the Board of Adjustment in charge of CUPs. Board of Adjustments are appointed not elected and their decisions can’t be referred.  Lawrence County in the past has allowed referendum of a CUPs. \nFolks argue about the law – about whether CUPs approved by a County Commission can be referred or not.  Lawrence County in the past has allowed a referendum of a Commission’s approval of a CUP allowing a sand/gravel mine. \nHowever approving an ordinance is a legislative decision and should be referable. Folks collected enough signatures to refer Zoning Ordinance 24-05\, but the County refuses to allow referral. \nSo petition circulators hired attorneys  They are asking for a writ of Mandamus to force County to allow the referendum.  The attorney’s cost $200-$250 per hour. A Lawrence County non-profit\, “Save Centennial Valley”\, has agreed to accept donations to pay for the attorneys. \nPHAS endorses this effort. Checks should be made payable to: Save Centennial Valley Association\,  and mailed to Save Centennial Valley\,   Kevin Farmer \, 11794 Crook City Rd\, Whitewood\, SD. 57793\, E-mail\, visionsmf22@gmail.com\, 605-641-2595
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/trial-about-requiring-referendum-on-zoning-ordinance-24-05/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250322T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250322T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250310T011351Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250310T045708Z
UID:17768-1742648400-1742659200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:World Water Day - Rapid City
DESCRIPTION:World Water Day – Rapid City \nMarch 22nd\, 1:00-4:00 pm \nHay camp Brewing \n601 Kansas City St. Rapid City \n Entertainment by Alex Massa’s Water Music\, Red Boy Means\, and others\, along with engaging speakers\, door prizes\, and a delicious light meal from The Hangry Buffalo! There is an annual fund-raising Silent Auction for Black Hills Clean Water Alliance\, filled with amazing items that could be yours!  \n For info – www.bhcleanwateralliance.org/wwd25 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-rapid-city/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Screen-Shot-2025-03-09-at-7.10.36-PM.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250320T183136Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T183136Z
UID:17921-1742495400-1742502600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:PHAS Board Meeting for March
DESCRIPTION:PHAS Board Meeting for March will be March 20th\, at 6:30 by Zoom. \nPHAS Board Meetings are open to members\, if you want to come – please  call or e-mail Nancy Hilding to get the Zoom links.  Nancy Hilding 605-787-6466\, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com\,
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-board-meeting-for-march/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250320T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250311T191538Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T192224Z
UID:17821-1742461200-1742468400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Board of Minerals and Environment Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Board of Minerals and Environment’s March Meeting \n03/20/2025 10:00 AM-12 PM CT\, Telephone Conference Call \n  \nLink to Agenda – https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/Agenda%20March%2020%202025%20BME%20(3).pdf \nITEMS\nTransfer of Small Scale Mine Permit 417 from Shirley and Andrew Krejci to Andrew Krejci – Eric Holm\nAnnual update of post-closure financial assurance for Homestake Mining Company\, Mine Permits 332 and 456 and Mine Permit 445 – Eric Holm\nDakota Gold Corp. request for approval of socioeconomic contractor for a large-scale mine permit application pursuant to SDCL 45-6B-33.1 – Roberta Hudson\nLegislative Update – Mike Lees\nNew board member oral biography – Rhett Miller\nPublic comment period in accordance with SDCL 1-25-1 \nLive audio for this meeting is available at http://www.sd.net and the\nboard packet is available on the Boards and Commissions Portal at\nhttps://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67 \nInterested persons may participate via telephone or in-person at the DANR Large Conference Room\, 523 East Capitol Avenue\, Pierre\, SD. \nTo participate via telephone please contact DANR at (605) 773-3886 or via email at brenda.binegar@state.sd.us no later than 4:00 p.m. Central Time on Wednesday\, March 19\, 2025.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-and-environment-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250312T223000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250312T225900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20241216T191859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250211T191451Z
UID:16136-1741818600-1741820340@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to comment on the proposed listing of the Monarch Butterfly under the ESA
DESCRIPTION:Deadline to comment on the proposed listing of the Monarch Butterfly under the ESA \n  \nOn December 10\, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) proposed that the monarch butterfly be listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. A 90-day public comment period on the proposal is open until March 12. The final decision on the proposal is scheduled to come in 2026.  \nToday\, the eastern migratory population is estimated to have declined by approximately 80%. The western migratory population has declined by more than 95% since the 1980s\, putting the western populations at greater than 99% chance of extinction by 2080. During this same period\, the probability of extinction for eastern monarchs ranges from 56 to 74%\, according to the Service’s most recent species status assessment. \nThreats to monarchs include loss and degradation of breeding\, migratory and overwintering habitat; exposure to insecticides; and the effects of climate change . Although many people have already helped conserve the butterfly\, additional habitat and protections are needed to ensure the species is conserved for future generations. \nTo assist with monarch conservation efforts\, the Service is also proposing critical habitat for the species at a portion of its overwintering sites in coastal California. Overwintering habitat provides an essential resting place for monarchs during the cold winter months and helps them prepare for breeding in the early spring. In total\, the Service is proposing 4\,395 acres of critical habitat for the western migratory monarch population across Alameda\, Marin\, Monterey\, San Luis Obispo\, Santa Barbara\, Santa Cruz and Ventura counties in California. A critical habitat designation imposes no requirements on state or private land unless the action involves federal funding\, permits or approvals. \n\nPublic informational meetings and public hearings: The USFWS will hold two public informational meetings followed by public hearings. The first meeting and hearing will be from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.\, eastern time\, on January 14\, 2025. To accommodate those in western time zones\, the second meeting and hearing will be from 8 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.\, eastern time\, on January 15\, 2025. \nWe are not sure of the TIME-OF-DAY of the comment deadline\, but have assumed it is just before Midnight EST (Washington DC time) on March 12th\, 2025. \n\n\nFor information: \nhttps://www.fws.gov/press-release/2024-12/monarch-butterfly-proposed-endangered-species-act-protection \nFor proposed rule and how to comment \nhttps://www.regulations.gov/document/FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137-0001 \nhttps://www.regulations.gov/docket/FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137 \nXerxes Society – pre-fab on-line sign on  letter and also a PDF of a sample comment letter: \nhttps://win.newmode.net/xerces-fws-monarch \nhttps://xerces.org/sites/default/files/publications/Monarch-ESA-letter-XercesSociety-USFWS.pdf
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-the-proposed-listing-of-the-monarch-butterfly-under-the-esa/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250307T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250307T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250203T060835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T165134Z
UID:17083-1741334400-1741366800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Black Hills Area Botany and Ecology Workshop - March 7\, 2025
DESCRIPTION: March 7:  Black Hills Area Botany and Ecology Workshop 2025. \nHere is the link to watch the recordings of the event – https://tnc.zoom.us/rec/play/iZvXHZFpbiknY_sI6ZWP1EVQf9K_hR5CMVGVfh1_Ak4O_NdQahModF1P-07rS7yLPnqvj_iSZveyKN6B._SVQyuFFP7AbBstS?accessLevel=meeting&canPlayFromShare=true&from=share_recording_detail&continueMode=true&componentName=rec-play&originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ftnc.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2FKJiRJyEgdcGdN4PQe1Mjr9zgMaNYQSZHxZ6KdIjxKN33qwj1wzaFDswvDXmp8H1n.6RU4L4fndLBKt2G0 \nDraft schedule: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Sj4xAW2zq1fA8YKma_Y2Ga4IGYJ42Lf7/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=108837412589411517394&rtpof=true&sd=true \nThe workshop took place on-site at The Outdoor Campus – West\, 4130 Adventure Trail\, Rapid City\, SD\, and on-line via Zoom\, \nPlease register at this link\, whether you will attend in person or by Zoom – by February 20th (free) : https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/NHd8PH4yS7OD_Gp-Qb0dTA \nWe are not sure of the exact start and end time for the event\, so have guessed at 8 am – 5 pm. We assume exact start/end times will be released later.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-area-botany-and-ecology-workshop-march-7-2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250306T120000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250307T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250123T193500Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250321T170124Z
UID:16870-1741262400-1741345200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD Game\, Fish and Parks Commission meeting\, Pierre\, SD and Zoom
DESCRIPTION:SD Game\, Fish and Parks Commission meeting\, Pierre\, SD and Zoom\, March 6-7  The meeting started at 1:00 pm CT on Thursday and was supposed to have ended by 12 pm CT on Friday. \nThe Agenda was published on the GFP Commission “Current Meeting Overview” web page a few days before the meeting  and will remain up there until they post April meeting info.: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ \n A proposal to increase access for hound hunters of mountain lions to prairie unit public land was orinally  be up for a finalization review and vote in March but they continued it to April meeting. .  Right now\, the hound hunters can only go to certain public lands in the prairie\, if hunt starts on private land and moves to public land. With the change that is proposed\, they can start a hunt on private or public land. Prairie Hills Audubon Society opposes this rule change. \nThe proposal was amended on 3/6/25 to cross of section 10 of the rule – Modify the rule § 41:06:61:06 to exclude section listing some public land areas that are closed to hunting\, i.e.:  Wind Cave National Park\, Jewel Cave National Park\, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial.  We think this is a “clean up” amendment\, as with the expansion of lion hunting to public land in the prairie unit\, they would need to list other parks and monuments\, that don’t allow hunting – such as Badlands National Park\, Minuteman Missile Silo National Historic Site & some areas of Missouri National Recreational River.  What federal lands are open to various types of hunting can be complex.  In discussion\, they say folks need permission of land owner to hunt\, but it doesn’t say that in the rule – but I suspect it is assumed hunters are supposed to know that. The finalization was continued until April 3rd\, 2025 meeting of the Commission \nJanuary version #1: https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Mt-Lion-proposal.-Commission_Book_-_January_9-10_2024.pdf \nMarch  version 2 – I have posted the new Mt lion hunting season rule change proposal  with new amendment added: \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/MountainLLionP-March_2025_Commission_Book-2.pdf\n\nOppose hound hunting of mountain lion\, especially on public land. Talking points against hound hunting – https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Hound-hunting-objections.pdf \nVisit our cougar alert page for information on SDGFP cougar management.  https://phas-wsd.org/cougar-alert/ \nThere was a public hearing & open forum on Thursday at 2 pm CT – testify in person and remotely on Zoom . Written comments were due\,  the Sunday (3/2/25) before the Thursday\, before midnight CT.  The is a web site to post comments to is: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. \nIf your written comments are late\, they are shared with Commission for the next Commission meeting. \nUnless you want to communicate directly with each Commissioner  (those comments will not be in the public record)–  https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/members/  (no deadline). You can see phones and home address at this link.  Here are likely e-mails for them. \n“Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us” <Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us>\, “Jon.Locken@state.sd.us” <Jon.Locken@state.sd.us>\,  “Travis.Bies@state.sd.us” <Travis.Bies@state.sd.us>\, “Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us” <Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us>\, “Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us” <Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us>  \nThe three new commissioners  e-mails likely are: – Jim.White@state.sd.us\, \, Bruce.Cull@state.sd.us\, Travis.Theel@state.sd.us\, \nAt the hearing they reviewed a rule change proposal to have a season for Jack rabbits\, instead of 365 days of unlimited harvest.  The Commission rejected the proposal \nIssues we are concerned about \n1.  Allowing hound hunting of lions on the prairie unit to originate on public and private land\, with consent of owner. This would be a change from status quo which allows hound hunting on private land and  only on public land if the chase moves  from private to public land.  We oppose this rule change and urge folks to write or testify in opposition to this\, as it has been continued to April 3rd meeting. The public comment tally>>> Of written comments on this issue – 39 opposed it \, 20 supported it. Link to public comments – mt lion public comments (39 oppose\, 20 support ) https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/mt-lion-only-PC-from-March_2025_Commission_Book-4-3.pdf  At the hearing 2 folks testified against it. Go to our web site on Mt Lions for talking points.. \n2. Allowing a rocky mountain sheep to be shot in the Deadwood unit – concern is that population is too low to support killing one sheep.  We are investigating this rule change and will likely oppose the harvest limit at Deadwood population.There were many public comments on this issue. Here is the proposal – https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/BHS-from-March_2025_Commission_Book-2.pdf \n3. Allow the SDGFP the hunting area of the west river prairie elk season  to be increased to overlap west river Reservations\, so Caucasians can hunt elk on private land in-holdings within the reservations.  The tribes oppose this. At the public hearing on 3/6/25 representatives from Lower Brule Sioux Tribe\, Rosebud Sioux Tribe\, Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe and Oglala Sioux Tribes spoke against the rule change. We are investigating this rule change. \n\nPrairie elk season rule change proposal:\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/PrairieElkMarch_2025_Commission_Book-3.pdf\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTRIBAL CONCERNS ON PRAIRIE ELK SEASON\n\nNew proposed prairie elk season would extend the area hunting is allowed with GFP license to within boundaries of  the Lakota reservations west river. Elk are culturally important to Lakota – it is a symbol of strength\, endurance\, and patience. Elk meat is worth a lot of money – there are lots of  meat in an Elk.  and SDGFP charges  $121-$209 dollars for an elk license. Here is the fall 2024 rule change proposal for raising GFP’s hunting/fishing fees: https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/FinalzizationFee-gfp.Book_.CommSept.5_9_24.pdf  Getting  an elk hunting license  from SDGFP is very competitive/limited.\n\n With the change Tribes are afraid too many of their elk would be shot by Caucasians at the Caucasian owned deeded lands that exist as in-holdings on the reservation and  also that Caucasian hunters would go hunt on the reservation in violation of tribal hunting laws (without a tribal license)\, perhaps embolden by the belief that tribes can’t prosecute Caucasians for criminal violations\, I need to research this and learn more about tribal legal leverage  over Caucasian hunters\, which may rest in federal courts. SDGFP went ahead with publishing the proposed change without consulting all the tribes first in violation of the MOUs they have with those tribes.  Conversely local Caucasian ranchers think they should be able to shoot elk eating grass on their ranches with GFP license and complained to SDGFP\, who is now trying to address their complaints.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-sd-and-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250305T165900
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250305T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250115T223049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250115T223049Z
UID:16549-1741193940-1741194000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to submit comments to NAS 2025 Photo contest
DESCRIPTION:National Audubon Society has a photography contest every spring\, which entry period normally starts some time in January. In 2025 it starts on January 15th\, 2025 and may ends March 5th.. https://www.audubon.org/photography/awards/official-contest-rules \nMail entries must be postmarked on March 5th\, 2025. Entries submitted on-line must be received by 10 am MST \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-comments-to-nas-2025-photo-contest/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250302T105000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250302T225900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250123T194010Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250227T124259Z
UID:16874-1740912600-1740956340@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Written Comment Deadline SD GFP Commission's March meeting
DESCRIPTION:The written comment deadline  for the SD GFP Commission’s March meeting is the Sunday night before the Thursday meeting> Comments are due just before midnight CT. \nThe  web site to post comments to is: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. \nThey have a rule change proposal to expand access by hound hunters of mountain lions to public lands on the prairie.  Under the status quo the hound hunters can only access certain public lands if chasing the cougar from a hunt begun on private land. With the rule change they can start hunt on public lands\, as long as the public lands allow hunting. PHAS opposes this rule change.  Go our March 6 Calendar date for more information.https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-sd-and-zoom/ \n==================== \nUnless you want to communicate directly with each Commissioner  (those comments will not be in the public record)–  https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/members/  (there is no deadline). You can see phones and home address at this link.  Here are likely e-mails for them. \n“Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us” <Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us>\, “Jon.Locken@state.sd.us” <Jon.Locken@state.sd.us>\,  “Travis.Bies@state.sd.us” <Travis.Bies@state.sd.us>\, “Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us” <Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us>\, “Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us” <Julie.Bartling@state.sd.us>  \nThe three new commissioners  e-mails likely are: \nJim.White@state.sd.us\, \, Bruce.Cull@state.sd.us\, Travis.Theel@state.sd.us\, \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-sd-gfp-commissions-march-meeting/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250203T064015Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T134632Z
UID:17088-1740095400-1740095940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Scoping Comment Deadline Sawbuck Forest Management Project- BHNF - 2/20/25
DESCRIPTION:Scoping Comment Deadline Sawbuck Forest Management Project- BHNF – 2/20/25 \nThe Sawbuck Forest Management Project area lies approximately 13 miles west of Hill City\, South Dakota. \nThe proposed vegetation management surrounds Pe’ Sla.   The FS is  proposing conifer thinning\, timber stand improvement\, prescribed fire\, planting efforts\, as well as enhancements to watersheds\, riparian areas\, and wildlife habitats. \nFor more information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67518 \nFor information\, you may contact Jim Gubbels\, Mystic District Ranger\, or Thawney\nStottler\, Mystic Ranger District resource planner\, at (605) 343-1567. \nYou may comment via the project website\, via telephone (above) or fax (605) 343-7134\, or through the U.S. mail:
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-sawbuck-forest-management-project-bhnf-2-20-25/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250203T055425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250203T060050Z
UID:17077-1740095400-1740095940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline for Comments on the North Sand Vegetation Management Preliminary EA - BHNF
DESCRIPTION:Deadline for Comments on the North Sand Vegetation Management Preliminary EA – BHNF – 2/20/25 \nThis is located six to ten miles south of Beulah\, Wyoming. It is north of the Sand Creek Roadless Area in the Bearlodge Ranger District. \nFor more information: \n https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=65540 \nAdditional informa-tion regarding this proposedaction can be obtained fromElizabeth Krueger\, ResourcePlanner\, at (307) 283-1361 orby e-mail at elizabeth.krueger@usda.gov \nTo comment on the project digitally: https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=65540
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-comments-on-the-north-sand-vegetation-management-preliminary-ea-bhnf/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T175000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250220T203000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250213T141737Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250213T141737Z
UID:17298-1740073800-1740083400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Norbeck Society meeting on “Providing for Birds & Conserving Biodiversity.” Australian speaker
DESCRIPTION:Norbeck Society meeting – topic: “ Providing for Birds & Conserving Biodiversity”  \non Thursday 2/20/25\, 5:50 pm MT \nJayden Gunn\, Central NSW Woodland Birds Project Coordinator\, BirdLife Australia will  gives the talk \n  \nThis is a hybrid meeting: in person or zoom (link below)! \nPlease join the Norbeck Society for an evening with Jayden Gunn to enjoy his amazing photographs of Australian birds and learn about his conservation projects. \nJayden has worked as an environmental management professional for over 10 years with experience in Landcare and conservation across Eastern Australia. \nHe is Project Coordinator for Central NSW Woodland Birds\, BirdLife Australia where he works full time coordinating landscape scale threatened species conservation projects for a variety of woodland bird species on private and public lands. \nJayden holds a place on the board of Intrepid Landcare where he strives to improve national youth engagement and engagement in conservation\, he also Deputy chairs the Kanangra-Boyd to Wyangala Link (K2W) partnership and K2W Glideways programs who work in connecting and preserving vital ecosystems within the Great Eastern Ranges. \nJayden\, while passionate about all things conservation\, specializes in avian ecology and conservation with a particular passion for Australia’s Calyptorhynchus species. \nFrom Australia\, Jayden will join the Norbeck Society at the SDGF&P Outdoor Campus\, Rapid City via Zoom. \nThe meeting will begin at 5:50 pm MT\,  with a brief update of the Norbeck Society’s activities & upcoming events\, followed by the main presentation. \nPublic meeting ~ everyone is welcome ~ light refreshments available! \nCan’t make it in person? \nJoin the meeting on Zoom: \nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 \nPlease email info@norbecksociety.com for more information. \nWe don’t know how long the meeting will last but have guessed at about 2.5 hours
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-meeting-on-providing-for-birds-conserving-biodiversity-australian-speaker/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250215T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250215T163000
DTSTAMP:20260417T152744
CREATED:20250108T134624Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250124T041723Z
UID:16198-1739628000-1739637000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel 2/15/25
DESCRIPTION:Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel will be Saturday\, February 15th\, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:30 pm. \nIt will be a hybrid meeting and a Zoom link offered. \nThis event is co-sponsored by Prairie Hills Audubon Society\, Rapid City Chapter of Dakota Rural Action and the Piedmont Valley American Legion Post 311. \nLegislators from District 33 and 29 are invited and all 6 say they will come. It is at the American Legion Post 311 building at 101 Pine St at the corner of it’s  Sturgis Rd intersection on south east side of Piedmont \nZoom Option: Register in advance to attend meeting by Zoom:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/c7qES-tjTq2_J37AT9Mgtw \nAfter registering\, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Legislators from Districts 33 and 29 are invited and all six are expected. \n What is a Cracker Barrel? – It’s a moderated question and answer session where the public can ask their elected representative questions about the legislature. The agenda will have two one-hour segments with a 20-25 minute break (with snacks) in the middle. Bob Burns will moderate.  \nCome join us and find out what’s happening in Pierre\, meet the representatives and some of Foothills Area neighbors. The invited legislators are those who represent the towns of Southern Meade County: Black Hawk\, Summerset\, Piedmont and Box Elder\, as well as other parts of Pennington County and Meade County.  \nPrairie Hills Audubon Society maintains a legislative cracker barrel list on another web page. https://phas-wsd.org/sd-legislative-cracker-barrels-2022/We also have 2 other web pages on the legislative session generic legislative functions & bill tracking  : .https://phas-wsd.org/sd-legislature/    :  https://phas-wsd.org/phas-bill-tracking-for-sd-legislature/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel/
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END:VCALENDAR