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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Prairie Hills Audubon Society
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250501T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250518T220000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250411T181427Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250411T181442Z
UID:18285-1746057600-1747605600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Endangered Species Chalk Art Competition
DESCRIPTION:Endangered Species Chalk Art Competition \nThe competition will occur from Thursday\, May 1\, 2025 to Sunday\, May 18th. Friday\, May 16th is Endangered Species Day\n\nhttps://www.endangered.org/endangered-species-chalk-art-event/ \n\nPeople draw pictures of Endangered Species on side walks\, parking lots \, roads\, garage floors  etc.\nyou  take a photo of your chalk art and post to\nhttps://form.jotform.com/250779081878069\n\nThere are winners who get prizes.\n  You can however get chalk sets at WalMart\, Hobby Lobby and Family Dollar and likely other places.   There are very cheap sets\, but those tend to be in pastels\, that don’t resemble most wildlife colors. To get chalk that has deeper colors and has colors like wildlife\, you need to buy better chalk sets such as Crayola sets or mix plaster of Paris with tempera paints.\nCrayola chalk large set:\nhttps://shop.crayola.com/toys-and-activities/64-ct.-ultimate-sidewalk-chalk-collection-5120640000.html\nHow to make your own chalk:\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2hUt5ecZC2M\n\nWe are not sure at which midnight in what time zone they are closing the competition. It might be in  closing at midnight in your time zone\, or in EST.  We have it ending at EST\, but it might end in your time zone.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-chalk-art-competition/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T073000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T183000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250321T070437Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250501T131953Z
UID:17956-1746257400-1746297000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Field trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge
DESCRIPTION:Field trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge. We meet folks at the Refuge Headquarters at about 10 am. A car pool departs from Rapid City’s Eastside Family Fare  (used to be Family Thrift)  at 7:30 am.  It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Rapid City to Refuge & sometimes the car pool stragglers arrive a little bit after 10am. \nThis field trip happens every year and is jointly sponsored by Prairie Hills Audubon Society and Sierra Club\, (Black Hills Group). It happens at a weekend in early May.  It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Rapid City to the Refuge. \nIf you want to drive over the night before\, there is lodging in Martin and a small campground in north west part of Refuge at the Little White River Reservoir. \nLink to the Refuge web site: \nhttps://www.fws.gov/refuge/lacreek \nFor more information.:\nNancy Hilding – Prairie Hills Audubon Society\, – \n(605) 787-6466 (home land-line)\, 605-787-2806 (cell phone)\, \nphas.wsd@rapidnet.com\, http://www.phas-wsd.org\,  \nJay Davis – Black Hills Group of Sierra Club\, (605) 348-5867\,Jolie McCoy or Suzanne Martley – Black Hills Group of Sierra Club\, (605) 430-2282; (605) 786-2496\, \nhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064584225744 \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-to-la-creek-national-wildlife-refuge-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/la-creek-Shot-2025-03-31-at-11.53.18-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T140000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T153000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250502T192627Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250503T024603Z
UID:18558-1746280800-1746286200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:IMPEACH\, CONVICT\, REMOVE Rally by Indivisible - 2 pm\, May 3rd in Rapid City
DESCRIPTION:May 3 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm UTC-6\nIMPEACH\, CONVICT\, REMOVE Rally\nCity Hall 300 6th St\, Rapid City\, SD\, United States\n\n\nIndivisible Facebook page writes: \n“Visit Rapid City” is hosting an event at the Elks Theater for the unveiling on the newest City of Presidents statue\, Trump. Yes\, they are putting up a statue of the “Felon-in-Chief. \nWe will be meeting at City Hall and walking together to Main Street Square.” \n\nIndivisible normally has some sort of protest or community service event on Saturdays this spring\, visit their Facebook or web site for their events/actions.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/impeach-convict-remove-rally-by-indivisible-2-pm-may-3rd-in-rapid-city/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250503T213000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250503T025129Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250503T025301Z
UID:18565-1746291600-1746307800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Idea Wild Auction at Journey Museum
DESCRIPTION:Idea Wild Auction at Journey Museum   This event starts at 5 pm\, we don’t know when it ends \n30th Anniversary benefit auction \nideawild@ideawild.org \nhttps://ideawild.org/events/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/idea-wild-auction-at-journey-museum/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250504T115000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250504T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250311T211250Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250502T134916Z
UID:17847-1746359400-1746403140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Written Comment Deadline SDGFP Commission May Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Written Comment Deadline for SDGFP Commission’s May Meeting \nIt is before midnight MT  on Sunday night 5/4/25 – the  web site to post comments to is: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. \nCommission meeting is on Thursday-Friday at Custer State Park’s Event Barn & Zoom. When closer to meeting we will post more info on our May 8th-9th notice – https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-hybrid-meeting-in-custer-and-zoom/  However you can testify remotely (Zoom) or in person at 2 pm MT on 5/8/25 \nWe want people to write in in support of a moratorium on beaver trapping and hunting in the Black Hills Fire Protection District.  We want them to write in support of a a reduction in the months of  beaver hunting and trapping season outside of Black Hills from 12 months to 5 or 6 months. \nThose reduced hunting/trapping months would be either November 1st to March 31st  (5 months) or November 1st  to April 30th (6 months).  This allows trapping during the period of thick winter pelts\, but ends it when species start breeding.  The beaver start breeding in May.  River otter (who are strongly associated with beaver ) become  incidental take in beaver traps and they start breeding in April.  Less months of beaver trapping means more beaver & otter on the landscape! \nState law allows people whose property is harmed by conflict beaver to contact GFP and get permission to kill the beaver all year long. \nWe want folk to write in support of relocating northern river otter to western SD\, which are now  only exist east river.  GFP  has no plans to relocate some to the west river or improve habitat along west River’s rivers/streams to make the riparian habitat better for otters and to improve chances of natural migration from the Missouri River area. \nHere is the petition for rule making on the beaver hunt/trap season  that PHAS submitted to the Commission\, asking for changes to beaver season. \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/prairie-hills-audubon-society-2025-beaver-petition-PHAS.F.pdf \nHere is an attachment to that petition: \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/BH-Beaver-Information-Item-GFP-Dec-2023-final-1.pdf \nYou can also go to our web site under drop down from Campaigns\, Wildlife\, Beaver/Otter https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-and-river-otter/ \nor drop down from Alerts\, Beaver https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-alert/ \nHere is a one page alert that can be printed – https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/BeaverHunttrap-alertF2R.pdf \nHere is a one page discussion of benefits of beavers that can be printed : https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Benefits-of-Beavers-2025.F2.pdf \n  \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-sdgfp-commission-may-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250507T083000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250507T110000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250428T190401Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T190440Z
UID:18443-1746606600-1746615600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Water Management Board Meeting May 5 2025
DESCRIPTION:Water Management Board Meeting May 5 2025 \nhttps://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106\n\n05/07/2025 | Water Management Board\n\nStart Date/Time: 05/07/2025 09:30 AM\nEnd Date/Time: 05/07/2025 12:00 PM\nTime Zone: Central Standard Time\nDescription: May 7\, 2025 WMB Meeting\nLocation: DANR – Foss Building – Matthew Training Center\nDocuments: \n\n\n\n\nDescription\nFile Type\nUpload Date\n\n\nAgenda\nAgenda\n4/28/2025 11:16:13 AM\n\n\nBoard Packet\nDocument\n4/28/2025 11:21:37 AM\n\n\nRemote Participation Information\nDocument\n4/28/2025 11:17:07 AM\n\n\n\n\nLinks: \n\n\n\n\nListen Live\n\n\n\n\nAudio Files*: \n\n\n\n\nThere are no audio files for this meeting.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-board-meeting-may-5-2025/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250507T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250507T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250514T182047Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T184104Z
UID:18839-1746661800-1746662340@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Scoping comments due on Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project\, BGNG NNF
DESCRIPTION:Scoping comments due on Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project\, NNF \n  \nQuotes from Forest Service letter: \n” Project Area  \nThe proposed actions for this project would take place in the Imlay West Pasture of the Imlay West Allotment on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland (Figure 1). This pasture is located approximately 20 miles Southwest of Wall\, SD. The Pine Ridge Reservation borders this pasture to the south and Badlands National Park forms it’s western border.  \nPurpose and Need  \nThe purpose of the project is to allow livestock grazing as a vegetation management tool in the Imlay West Pasture. Currently there is no active vegetation management occurring within this pasture due to limited water sources and deteriorating fences. This project is needed to improve boundary fences and water sources to support livestock grazing.  \nProposed Action  \nThe Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project would include reconstruction or replacement of the existing boundary fences and cleaning out years of sediment siltation within two existing earthen stock dams. Fences would be constructed to Forest Service specifications to include proper signage\, gates\, and wildlife crossing friendly design (smooth bottom wire that is properly gapped). Sediment removed from dams will be added to the existing dam faces for extra reinforcement for future use. “ \n…… \nComments To be most useful please submit your comments for the Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project by May 7th\, 2025. Comments submitted via the project website(https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=68034) can be done by clicking on “Comment/Object on Project” on the right side of the webpage. Written comments may be mailed to Wall Ranger District\, Attn: Jacob Rohrer\, 710 Main St / PO Box 425\, Wall\, SD 57790. Comments may be submitted at (605) 279-2126. This jacob.rohrer@usda.gov.  While we welcome comments on this proposal at any time\, they would be most helpful if received within 15 days of the date of this letter 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comments-due-on-imlay-west-allotment-improvement-project-bgng-nnf/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250508T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T120000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250203T233419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250509T165312Z
UID:17115-1746709200-1746792000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD Game\, Fish and Parks May Commission hybrid meeting\, in Custer and Zoom
DESCRIPTION:SD Game\, Fish and Parks May Commission hybrid meeting\, in Custer and Zoom\, \nWhen close to the date visit this page for agenda and documents presented to Commission: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ \n  \nAgenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_Public_May_2025.pdf \nDate and Time: May 8\, 2025\, from 1-5 pm MT | May 9\, 2025\, from 8 am-12 pm MT\n\nMeeting Location: Custer State Park Event Barn\, 13389 US HWY 16A\, Custer\, SD 57730\n\nYou always need to  inform Gail Buus at gail.buus@state.sd.us by 1 pm of the day of the hearing\,  if you plan to speak during the meeting. This helps GFP to accurately identify and call on speakers during the session.\n\nZoom Webinar: https://state-sd.zoom.us/j/91264176710?pwd=Vm00NEowdGV6N09Ib1hnVlJkMUF3Zz09#success\n Meeting ID: 912 6417 6710 Passcode: 970458\nCall In: +16699009128\,\,91264176710# US Video Conference ID: 91264176710@zoomcrc.com\n\n  \nRESULTS OF MEETING \nThe Commission moved forward a rule change proposal of a moratorium on beaver hunting/trapping in the Black Hills.  They will vote on it at their June 5th-6th Commission meeting and  written comments are due Sunday night June the 1st. Peoples comments in support of the moratorium are needed. https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission-june-meeting/ \nBeaver draft Action Plan was also released for comment. We are  not sure of the Comment deadline but it might be in a month.  – https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/beaverActionPLan-May_2025_Commission_Book_-2.pdf \nWritten comments are due on a Northern River Otter Management Plan for staff review on May 23rd or for the June Commission meeting as the Commission votes on the Plan then. \nDeadline to Comment on the draft “North American River Otter Action Plan\, 2025-2029.” \n \n================================== \n================================================== \nYou could have testified in person or remotely by Zoom at 2 pm MT. \nWritten Comments were due  5/4/25 –  the Sunday  before the Thursday\, before midnight MT posted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/   \nWe will want people to testify in in support of a  moratorium on beaver trapping and hunting in the Black Hills Fire Protection District.  We want them reduce the months of beaver hunting and trapping season outside of Black Hills from 12 months to either 5 or 6 months. \nNov 1st-March 31st stops beaver trapping when river otters having babies and Nov 1st-April 30th\, stops trapping when beavers start having babies. \nThis allows trapping during the period of thick pelts\, but  stops when the beaver start breeding in May.  The river otter who are strongly associate with beaver and are incidental take in beaver trap. They  start breeding in April. \nState law allows people whose land is harmed by “conflict” beaver to call up GFP and get permission to kill the beaver all year long – so removing the 12 months season does not prevent landowners from removing “conflict” beaver year round. \nWe want folks to testify in support of northern river otter populations recovering western SD. Otter now only occur east river.  GFP  has no plans to relocate some west river or improve habitat along west River’s rivers/streams to make the riparian habitat better for otters.  While otters are in the Missouri River and good habitat exists for them in the far western part of SD\, the eastern part of  western SD has low flow rivers and many degraded riparian areas. Please ask SDGFP to reintroduce otters west River\, make this a comment on Northern River Otter Action Plan. \nSD Game\, Fish and Parks may be proposing increasing the harvest limit on the east river – river otter hunting/trapping season. This should be opposed as various monitoring data indicate a likely drop in the otter population. \nHere is the petition for rule making on the beaver hunt/trap season  that PHAS submitted to the Commission\, asking for changes to beaver season. On May 8th-9th they will consider moving this petition forward  – opening it to  formal public comment and the rule making process with a vote on it on July 10th-11th. \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/prairie-hills-audubon-society-2025-beaver-petition-PHAS.F.pdf \nHere is an attachment to that petition: \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/BH-Beaver-Information-Item-GFP-Dec-2023-final-1.pdf \nYou can also go to our web site under drop down from Campaigns\, Wildlife\, Beaver/Otter https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-and-river-otter/ \nor drop down from Alerts\, Beaver https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-alert/ \nHere is a one page alert that can be printed – https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/BeaverHunttrap-alertF2R.pdf \nHere is a one page discussion of benefits of beavers that can be printed : https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Benefits-of-Beavers-2025.F2.pdf \nHere is a link to video on value of beaver that we recommend \n\n  \nMay 4th\, 2025 written comment deadline –https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-sdgfp-commission-may-meeting/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-hybrid-meeting-in-custer-and-zoom/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250512T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250407T204133Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T204133Z
UID:18201-1746748800-1747094340@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:West River Spring [Bird] Migration Count
DESCRIPTION:West River Spring [Bird] Migration Count \n\n\n\n\n\nThe annual West River Migration Count (WRMC) dates are May 9-12\, 2025 and Vic Fondy will be coordinating the count.  Similar to the Audubon Christmas Bird count\, the WRMC is conducted during the second week of May to count both species and numbers of birds migrating thru Western South Dakota.  The WRMC is conducted by counties.  During the four day period\, volunteers in Western SD from the Nebraska border to the North Dakota border will count migrating birds arriving or passing thru western South Dakota.   \nVic Fondy-Coordinator WRMC  <treasurecreek@gmail.com>\, 605) 269-2553‬
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/west-river-spring-bird-migration-count/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T100000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T160000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250421T225510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250422T152241Z
UID:18413-1746784800-1746806400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Follow up meeting to fall Anti-mining summit meeting for BlackHills
DESCRIPTION:Protecting the Black Hills from Mining Summit\, Follow up Meeting\, May 9th\, \n10 am-4 pm MT\, Check-in starts at 9:30 am \nSpace is limited you must pre-register to attend \nGo to https://wp.me/P8vQtg-4H5 or  \nFollow Up Meeting: Protecting the Black Hills from Mining Summit
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/follow-up-meeting-to-fall-anti-mining-summit-meeting-for-blackhills/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Screen-Shot-2025-04-21-at-4.41.38-PM.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250509T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250409T172058Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250510T170709Z
UID:18259-1746834600-1746835140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline for scoping comments on Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project
DESCRIPTION:May 9th  was the former deadline to send comments. . THIS DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED A WEEK to Friday the 16th \nPete Lien and Sons Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project. https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=67838 \n\nThe scoping comment period for this project is April 9\, 2025 – May 9\, 2025.\nElectronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the Comment Reviewing Officer online at https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=67838. 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: Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project\, 8221 S. Mount Rushmore Rd.\, Rapid City\, SD\, 57702 or by fax at 605-343-7134. Public comments will be accepted for 30 days following the date of this Scoping Letter. Comments submitted\, including names and addresses of commenters\, are public information.\nIf you have questions or need additional information\, please contact Jonathan Manning\, Project Leader at 605-673-9200\, Thawney Stottler\, District Resource Planner\, or James Gubbels at the Mystic Ranger District office in Rapid City\, SD at 605-343-1567\, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-scoping-comments-on-rochford-mineral-exploratory-drilling-project/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250510T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250510T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250312T174708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250510T191206Z
UID:17872-1746835200-1746921540@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:International Migratory Bird Day
DESCRIPTION:International Migratory Bird Day is the second Saturday in May. May 10th \nA local event is planned to celebrate IMBD\, but will likely be on the third weekend\, at Bear Butte State Park. \nPHAS has a field trip to La Creek NWR every May\, it is usually on the first or second Saturday in May.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-migratory-bird-day/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250512T090000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250515T213000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250425T002617Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T002824Z
UID:18431-1747040400-1747344600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Native American Fish and Wildlife Society 2025 Annual National Conference in Wyoming
DESCRIPTION:The 2025 Native American Fish and Wildlife Society Annual National Conference\, hosted by the Eastern Shoshone & Northern Arapaho Tribes of the Wind River Reservation\, will be held from May 12 to 15\, 2025 at the Wind River Hotel and Casino in Riverton\, WY. \nAgenda: https://www.nafws.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2025-National-Conference-Agenda.-DRAFT-4.24.25.pdf \n\nEarly Bird Registration Fees (Until March 28\, 2025): \n\nNon-member – $450 (includes membership)\nNAFWS Member or Member Tribe Employee – $350\nStudent – $150 MUST SUBMIT PROOF OF ENROLLMENT HERE\nOne day registration (Wednesday only) – $150\n\n\nRegular Registration Fees (After March 28\, 2025):\n\nNon-member – $600 (includes membership)\nNAFWS Member or Member Tribe Employee – $500\nStudent – $150 MUST SUBMIT PROOF OF ENROLLMENT HERE\nOne day registration (Wednesday only) – $150
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-american-fish-and-wildlife-society-2025-annual-national-conference-in-wyoming/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250513T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250513T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250513T170121Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T170121Z
UID:18809-1747123200-1747155600@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to comment on SDGFP proposed Beaver Action Plan
DESCRIPTION:Deadline to comment on SDGFP proposed Beaver Action Plan. \nThis plan provides for direction on beaver management in the Black Hills\, allowing for a beaver trapping/hunting moratorium until various population and distribution goals are reached\, at which point hunting season on private land will be reintroduced and then later with even more  increased distribution and population\, a hunting season on public land. \nWe will provide more information later.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sdgfp-proposed-beaver-action-plan/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250514T160000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250514T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250421T224924Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250513T041427Z
UID:18411-1747238400-1747242000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to Intervene in Project to explore for uranium above Craven Canyon
DESCRIPTION:DEADLINE TO SUBMIT COMMENT OR INTERVENE IS MAY 14. \n  \nDeadline to submit letters to South Dakota DANR’s “Minerals\, Mining\, and Superfund Program” to intervene\, comment\, and/or push for a change of venue to Fall River County are due in Pierre no later than Wednesday\, May 14th\, 5:00 PM CST or post marked on that date. It is suggested if you postal mail on the 14th\, to use registered or certified mail just so you have proof of post mark/sending (not required). Scroll down for instructions on intervening. \nClean Nuclear Energy Corp (CNEC) notice of intent to explore for uranium on state lands adjacent to Craven Canyon has been published.  They may also eventually apply to do so on Forest Service lands in the area. \nDeadline to submit letters to South Dakota DANR’s “Minerals\, Mining\, and Superfund Program” to intervene\, comment\, and/or push for a change of venue to Fall River County are due no later than Wednesday\, May 14th. \nGo to the Chord Project for more information and how to submit your comment and/or intervene. \n  \n\nChord Project\n\n\nThe Chord project\, which is composed of 3\,677 acres east of the Dewey-Burdock project in the Craven Canyon area.  This area had a lot of exploration drilling in the 1970s and is a world-class cultural resources site.  Now\, folks must move fast to protect this sacred landscape. \nThe project lies in close proximity to Craven Canyon\, a critical historic and cultural site of importance to Indigenous and ranching communities. Portions of Craven Canyon are on the National Register of Historic Places.  A federal mineral claims withdrawal protects portions of the canyon from mining\, as does a state designation\, but CNEC wants to explore there anyway. An archaeologist who studied the site has said that the Basin/CNEC project drilling would be heard and in a sight line from those cultural and historic sites\, potentially disturbing those studying or praying there. \n=============== \nHere is a slide show that has been sent to us\, on how to comment on both this proposed uranium exploration and exploration for graphite near Pe Sla (Reynolds Prairie).  It has talking points and sample letter text. Both of theses projects threaten areas sacred to Lakota. \nhttps://www.canva.com/design/DAGmDCLr5oc/4f0GEt4oTl6E2UamY84P3w/edit \nHere is DRA’s web site’s discussion on this mining proposal\, with issues explained: \nhttps://www.dakotarural.org/our-work/uranium-mining/?emci=333a83e1-332f-f011-8b3d-6045bded8cca&emdi=8a0b4873-442f-f011-8b3d-6045bded8cca&ceid=8014869 \n\nFor more information\, visit BHCWA web page — https://bhcleanwateralliance.org/chord-project/ \nHOW TO INTERVENE- \nPublic comments and letters of intervention for the state hearing on this proposed intervention are now being accepted. \nYou can submit at Filing a Comment linked here. \nFollowing are important documents you can review: Notice of Intent from the state\, a fact sheet on the state land piece of this project\, and the state law that describes on what grounds uranium exploration permits may be denied. \n\n\nClick to access cc-notice-of-intent.pdf \n\n\n\n\nClick to access cc-area-exni-state-lands-fact-sheet.pdf \n\n\n\n\nClick to access 45-6d-29-grounds-for-denial-uranium-exploration.pdf \n\n\nDocuments filed on the CNEC exploration project are linked to here:  https://danr.sd.gov/Environment/MineralsMining/Exploration/NewEXNIS.aspx
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-intervene-in-project-to-explore-for-uranium-above-craven-canyon/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250514T183000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250514T200000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250512T223021Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250512T223048Z
UID:18784-1747247400-1747252800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:PHAS May 2025 Board meeting
DESCRIPTION:PHAS May 2025 Board meeting\, 6:30 pm Wed. 5/14/25 \nContact Nancy for info. 605-787-2806\, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com\, \nOpen to members –  others by invitation
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-may-2025-board-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250515T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250615T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250407T204536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250407T204536Z
UID:18215-1747267200-1750031940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Climate Watch Spring Season
DESCRIPTION:Climate Watch Spring Season \nClimate Watch is sponsored by the National Audubon Society (NAS) & takes place during two distinct seasons—winter (January 15-February 15) and summer (May 15-June 15). Below is the alert for any season (winter or summer) . \nLike the Christmas bird count this is a chance to help create “citizen science” for birds. Climate Watch focuses on these target species: Eastern Bluebird\, Mountain Bluebird\, Western Bluebird\, White-breasted Nuthatch\, Red-breasted Nuthatch\, Brown-headed Nuthatch\, Pygmy Nuthatch\, American Goldfinch\, Lesser Goldfinch\, Painted Bunting\, Eastern Towhee\, and Spotted Towhee. \nThese birds are easy to identify\, have an enthusiastic constituency\, and Audubon’s climate models for these species offer strong predictions for range shifts for us to test. In future years\, Climate Watch may include additional target species threatened by climate change. We believe that western bluebird and painted bunting are not normally in SD. All the other birds occur in all or parts of SD. \nVisit this page to see where these birds are in SD\, and which are near you: \nhttps://www.sdakotabirds.com/species_main.htm\nLocation Climate Watch focuses on areas of predicted change for these 12 species at each location across the continent. Audubon provides volunteers with online mapping tools with a grid of 10 km x 10 km squares showing species-specific predictions for each square based on the climate models. A Climate Watch Coordinator can help select your location and survey square. If you are participating on your own\, use the online maps to decide in which square to do your surveys. You will be able to see which squares are already “claimed”. \nHow to count Volunteers should first make sure to read through all of the materials including the full protocol manual. The Climate Watch protocol is different than any other birding program. Then using the planning done with the online maps\, volunteers survey appropriate habitat for the target species within a square and conduct 12 point counts of five minutes each within one morning\, then record the number and species of all birds seen or heard within 100 meters. Participants send the data to the National Audubon Society. \nHow data will be used  Audubon’s 2019 climate change report\, ‘Survival By Degrees\, – https://www.audubon.org/climate/survivalbydegrees – reveals that up to two-thirds of North American birds are vulnerable to extinction due to climate change. For example\, the beautiful Mountain Bluebird is vulnerable because in the vast majority of its summer range\, the climate conditions that this bird needs—temperature\, amount of rainfall\, and other environmental factors—will shift northward and eastward. This bird may be able to move into new areas over time\, or it may struggle to adapt. To test the report’s predictions\, Audubon has developed Climate Watch\, which aims to document species’ responses to climate change and test Audubon’s climate models by having volunteers in the field look for birds where Audubon’s climate models predict they will be in the 2020s. This information helps Audubon target our conservation work to protect birds. See the Climate Watch results page here to see our early reports and results from the data received by Climate Watch volunteers so far! \nLink to the Climate-watch program on the National Audubon Society web page \nhttps://www.audubon.org/conservation/climate-watch \nClimate watch instructions for participants \nhttps://www.audubon.org/news/participant-resources-climate-watch\nClimate watch for beginners webinar\, – this has much of the same info as our November meeting \nhttps://audubon.zoom.us/rec/share/xe9NAZTe6WVOf7fz2kbRAYAQMI66eaa8hCFL_fNZn0k3a8uNjHkvp4-EZzq7vlq_?startTime=1588186808000\n\n\nOur web page on community science efforts: \n https://phas-wsd.org/citizen-science/ \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-spring-season/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T000000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250518T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250515T142941Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T162833Z
UID:18843-1747353600-1747612740@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD GFP Parks Free Weekend: Free Entry & No Fishing License Required (May 16–18)
DESCRIPTION:SD GFP Parks Free Weekend: Free Entry & No Fishing License Required (May 16–18) \n  \n\n\n\n\n\nThis Friday through Sunday (May 16–18\, 2025)\, you can visit any South Dakota State Park for free. No entrance license needed! You can also fish without a license all weekend long throughout South Dakota! That’s right: it’s the perfect time to pack up\, head out\, and make the most of spring with a last-minute camping trip\, lakeside picnic\, or trail adventure. Lodges are open\, campsites are available\, and events are happening across the state. (Camping fees\, limits\, and regulations still apply.) \nFriendly reminder that the 2024 Annual Park Entrance License expires after Open House Weekend. Be sure to renew for unlimited visits all year long. \n\nCLARIFICATION – We have indicated weekend starts at 12:01 am and ends at 11:59 pm MT\, but we assume that each Park may have\, for security issues\,  it’s own unique rules about when its’ gates are open or closed on each day of the week.  If you are wanting to enter at odd hours\, check with the Park for its’ security rules.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-parks-free-weekend-free-entry-no-fishing-license-required-may-16-18/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T170000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250518T140000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250329T220939Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250329T221002Z
UID:18084-1747414800-1747576800@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:SD Ornithologist Union Biennial Spring Meeting
DESCRIPTION:SD Ornithologist Union Biennial Spring Meeting \nThis will be a tri-state joint meeting with our fellow birders from Iowa and Nebraska\, hosted the weekend of May 16-18 at the Salvation Army Western Plains Camp in South Sioux City\, NE. \n  \nThere is a fantastic array of field trips scheduled in all three states\, a Friday night poster session\, and a Saturday keynote by Nebraska’s Michael Forsberg (https://www.michaelforsberg.com/). Michael is a celebrated photographer\, author\, and conservationist who has dedicated over three decades to capturing and telling the story of wildlife and conservation in the Great Plains through his work. He has very recently published a new book\, Into Whooperland\, that tells the story of the endangered Whooping Crane. Copies of the book will be available during the meeting.\n\nFull details and online registration are available on the IOU website; the purple button to register is in the upper right. We are also pointing to this page from SDOU’s Next Meeting site. For those wishing to submit an abstract for the poster session\, there is information on the site about that as well.\n\n\n\n\nFriday\, May 16\, 2025\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n5:00 pm – 8:00 pm\nPoster Session\, Field Trip Signup and Social Hour\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:00 pm – 7:00 pm\nFriday Dinner: Taco Bar\n\n\nSaturday\, May 17\, 2025\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:00 am – 6:45 am\nBreakfast: Coffee and Donuts\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:45 am – 2:00 pm\nField Trips\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n2:00 pm – 3:00 pm\nAfternoon Programming\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n3:00 pm – 4:00 pm\nAfternoon Programming\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n4:00 pm – 5:00 pm\nBusiness/Membership Meetings\nAll Organizations\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:00 pm – 7:00 pm\nBanquet Dinner\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n7:00 pm – 8:00 pm\nKeynote Address\nMichael Forsberg\n\n\nSunday\, May 18\, 2025\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:00 am – 6:45 am\nBreakfast: Coffee and Donuts\n\n\nWestern Plains Camp Dining Hall\n6:45 am – 2:00 pm\nField Trips
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-union-biennial-spring-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T180000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T210000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250312T140328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250515T190727Z
UID:17870-1747418400-1747429200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Endangered Species Day Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Friday\, May 16th\, 2025 \nEvery year we have an Endangered Species Day Celebration\, where multiple groups sponsor presentations on federal and state listed endangered or threatened (T & E) species. In recent years it has been a Zoom meeting.   It is normally from 6 pm to 9 pm on the eve of Endangered Species Day\, the third Friday in May. \nFriday\, May 16th\, 2025\nEndangered Species Day Celebration\n\nBy Zoom at 6:00 pm MT – Scroll down for Zoom hyperlink and codes.\n\nEndangered Species Day is a celebration of our nation’s wildlife & wild places.  Started in 2006 by the US Congress\, Endangered Species Day (ESD) is the third Friday of May.  We have celebrated ESD in Rapid City with a multi-group sponsored event for 18 years.\n\n6:00-6:15 pm –  Introduction by Sponsors\n\n6:15  pm – 7:05  pm –  Speaker:  Dr. Ray Moranz\, Pollinator Conservation Specialist for the Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation. – Ray will speak on – “The Biology and Conservation of Two Awesome (but Very Different!) South Dakota Butterflies: the Monarch and the Regal Fritillary”\nDr. Moranz will enliven his presentation with many high-quality photos showing the most intriguing aspects of the biology of these large\, beautiful butterflies. Then he will provide useful tips for how you can help these species in South Dakota.\n\n7:05  pm – 7:55  pm – Speaker:  Jessica Speiser\, Wildlife Diversity Biologist\, SD Game\, Fish and Parks  – Jessica will speak on American dipper and osprey and also give some updates on  GFP’s non-game program.\nThe American dipper and the osprey are listed as threatened under SD’s state Endangered Species Act\n\n5 minute break\n\n8:00  pm- 8:50  pm – Speakers:   Kristal Stoner – Vice President National Audubon Society and Executive Director Audubon Great Plains\,  She will speak on “Challenges and Action Opportunities for Endangered Species Conservation in Federal Policy”\nThe Endangered Species Act is over 50 years old\, but the broad scope of this legislation that prioritizes animals and plants creates conflict with economic interests. Once again\, ESA needs support from the conservation community.  Learn more about what you can do to support policies that support endangered species conservation. \n\n\nCo sponsors – \nPrairie Hills Audubon Society\, the Norbeck Society\, Rapid City Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America\,   Western Watersheds Project & Black Hills Chapter of Citizen’s Climate Lobby\, Tanka Fund\, are confirmed as co-sponsors\, we will be adding others as it gets closer to the date.\n\n──────────\nYou are invited to a scheduled Zoom meeting.\nJoin Zoom Meeting at 6 pm MT to 9 pm MT on Friday May 16th\,\nLink>\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9yRmVON3VPU0dRZz09Meeting ID: 854 3392 0233\nPasscode: 534620—One tap mobile\n+16694449171\,\,85433920233#\,\,\,\,*534620# US\n+16699006833\,\,85433920233#\,\,\,\,*534620# US (San Jose)—Dial by your location\n• +1 669 444 9171 US\n• +1 669 900 6833 US (San Jose)\n• +1 719 359 4580 US\n• +1 253 205 0468 US\n• +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\n• +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\n• +1 689 278 1000 US\n• +1 929 205 6099 US (New York)\n• +1 301 715 8592 US (Washington DC)\n• +1 305 224 1968 US\n• +1 309 205 3325 US\n• +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)\n• +1 360 209 5623 US\n• +1 386 347 5053 US\n• +1 507 473 4847 US\n• +1 564 217 2000 US\n• +1 646 931 3860 USMeeting ID: 854 3392 0233\nPasscode: 534620Find your local number:https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbb9dO0PBV\nFor questions contact Nancy at phas.wsd@rapidnet.com\, land line 605-787-6466\, & cell 787-2806
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-celebration/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250516T235000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250510T171144Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250510T185621Z
UID:18736-1747439400-1747439400@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Extended Deadline to Comment on Exploration for Graphite Mine BHNF
DESCRIPTION:May 9th  electronically sent before midnight or postmarked \, is the deadline for scoping comments on. THIS DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED A WEEK to Friday the 16th \nPete Lien and Sons Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project. https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=67838 \n\nThe scoping comment period for this project is April 9\, 2025 – May 9\, 2025.\nProject web page and project documents can be found at – https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/projects/67838\nElectronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the Comment Reviewing Officer online at https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=67838. 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: Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project\, 8221 S. Mount Rushmore Rd.\, Rapid City\, SD\, 57702 or by fax at 605-343-7134. Public comments will be accepted for 30 days following the date of this Scoping Letter. Comments submitted\, including names and addresses of commenters\, are public information.\nIf you have questions or need additional information\, please contact Jonathan Manning\, Project Leader at 605-673-9200\, Thawney Stottler\, District Resource Planner\, or James Gubbels at the Mystic Ranger District office in Rapid City\, SD at 605-343-1567\, Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time.\n\n\nHere is a slide show that has been sent to us\, on how to comment on both this proposed uranium exploration and exploration for graphite near Pe Sla (Reynolds Prairie).  It has talking points and sample letter text. Both of theses projects threaten areas sacred to Lakota. \nhttps://www.canva.com/design/DAGmDCLr5oc/4f0GEt4oTl6E2UamY84P3w/edit \n  \n===================== \nThis mine is near Pe Sla and could have impacts to the sacred site. Pe Sla is also called Reynolds Prairie in Caucasian terms.  It is a large meadow west of Sliver City.   Quote from Black Hills Clean Water Alliance Instagram post: \n“Proposed by Pete Lien & Sons\, this drilling project puts one of the most sacred sites of the Lakota people\, Pe’ Sla\, at risk. The project seeks to extract graphite for electric vehicle batteries\, but the true cost? The desecration of a spiritual and cultural landmark. \nPe’ Sla is a place of deep spiritual significance\, used for ongoing ceremonies by the Lakota people. Would we allow mining RIGHT BESIDE a church or mosque? Of course not. \nALSO\, this project is located in the Rapid Creek Watershed\, which supplies water for all of Rapid City and Ellsworth Air Force Base. \nPe’ Sla is a culturally protected area; any drilling or mining near this site is a desecration. This is environmental injustice in its purest form. Tell Pete Lien & Sons you stand with the Lakota to protect Pe’ Sla.\nGo to www.bhcleanwateralliance.org to learn how to send a comment to the Forest Service TODAY” \nWe assume BHCWA has some sections of it’s web page devoted to this issue \nhttps://bhcleanwateralliance.org/2025/05/07/attention-forest-service-extends-comment-period-to-friday-may-16/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/extended-deadline-to-comment-on-exploration-for-graphite-mine-bhnf/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T150000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250312T183841Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250320T185123Z
UID:17890-1747468800-1747494000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:International Bird Day Celebration for Western SD - Bird Bash at Bear Butte
DESCRIPTION:International Bird Day Event Celebration for Western SD \nThis event is at Bear Butte State Park – Bear Butte State Park Education Center\, Sturgis\, SD\, 8 am – 3 pm MT \nIt is organized/sponsored by Audubon Great Plains\, American Bird Conservancy\, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies\, Black Hills Raptor Center\, The Nature Conservancy\, SDGFP\, NRCS\, The Wildlife Society\, Northern Great Plains Joint Venture  and other organizations. \nCelebrate South Dakota’s migratory birds with us. All ages andexperience levels are welcome! Follow the signs and meet us for a fun filled day!  Learn about bird ID & mindful birding\, view bird crafts\,  participate in  bird activities and watch live bird presentation. \n 
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-bird-day-celebration-for-western-sd-bird-bash-at-bear-butte/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T080000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T170000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250503T025514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250503T025514Z
UID:18567-1747468800-1747501200@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Pennington County Master Gardener's Annual Plant share
DESCRIPTION:5/17/25 Pennington County Master Gardener’s Annual Plant share\, at 8am\, Walter Taylor building – Central States Fairground \nWe are not sure how long it runs have guessed at 8 am- 5 pm
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-master-gardeners-annual-plant-share/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T095000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250508T055419Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250517T195253Z
UID:18651-1747475400-1747519140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to Comment on Grizzly Bear ESA listing Rule - USFWS
DESCRIPTION:Deadline to Comment on Grizzly Bear ESA listing Rule\, Sat May 17th\, 2025 \nFor info. visit \nhttps://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/15/2025-00329/endangered-and-threatened-wildlife-and-plants-grizzly-bear-listing-on-the-list-of-endangered-and \nThe USFWS writes \n“After a review of the best scientific and commercial data available\, we affirm that the currently listed grizzly bear population meets our requirements for consideration as a distinct population segment (DPS) under the Act and that the population remains likely to become an endangered species within the foreseeable future. However\, we find that clarification of the geographic areas included within the DPS is warranted. Therefore\, we propose to revise the listing by defining the boundaries of the contiguous U.S. grizzly bear DPS. The revised entity would include all geographic portions of the currently listed lower-48 entity that contain suitable habitat and where grizzly bears are currently found or are likely to be found in the future as populations recover. This area includes all of Washington and portions of Idaho\, Montana\, and Wyoming. The contiguous U.S. grizzly bear DPS would retain threatened species status. This proposed rule would promote conservation of the grizzly bear by ensuring that the listing under the Act explicitly reflects the areas where grizzly bears currently occur and are likely to occur in the future. Clarifying that the listing does not include areas outside of the grizzly bear’s historical range will assist as recovery proceeds. We are also proposing to revise protective regulations for the grizzly bear issued under section 4(d) of the Act.” \nThe Federal Register Notice says: \n “Written comments:FWS will accept comments received or postmarked on or before March 17\, 2025. Comments submitted electronically using the Federal eRulemaking Portal (see ADDRESSES \, below) must be received by 11:59 p.m. eastern time on the closing date.” \nDespite what it says in the Federal Register\, they closed the comment period on the 16th\, as I tried to submit comments on 17th and it would not allow such. This must be a violation of law. Before writing test the portal to see if they fixed the glitch. \n=========================== \nHere is link to an on-line\, petition by WildEarth Guardians – you must sign it by the 16th.  https://action.wildearthguardians.org/page/66070/petition/1?ea.url.id=3578617 \nHere is a quote from WildEarth Guardians: \n“After rejecting delisting petitions from Wyoming and Montana\, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service is now proposing a rule that would narrow and weaken current protections for grizzlies. Now is the time to speak up and support grizzly bear recovery! \nThe agency is proposing to increase bear killings\, reduce protected areas\, and weaken restrictions to appease commercial livestock operators. Instead\, we should prioritize coexistence and non-lethal conflict prevention. \nWe need to keep all safeguards in place until the science shows grizzly bears are fully recovered\, and until the states have adequate rules in place to ensure grizzly bears will thrive for future generations.” \nTell the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Protect grizzly bears under the ESA! \n  \nHere is a link to Western Watersheds Projects article that criticizes the rule proposal: \nhttps://www.westernwatersheds.org/2025/01/u-s-fish-wildlife-service-maintains-federal-protection-for-grizzlies-but-new-rule-raises-questions-on-long-term-recovery/ \nRead both of these & you can create a comment letter \n=================================== \nADDRESSES:\nComment submission: You may submit comments by one of the following methods: \n(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: \nhttps://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box\, enter FWS-R6-ES-2024-0186\, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then\, click on the Search button. On the resulting page\, in the panel on the left side of the screen\, under the Document Type heading\, check the Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.” \n(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing\, Attn: FWS-R6-ES-2024-0186\, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, MS: PRB/3W\, 5275 Leesburg Pike\, Falls Church\, VA 22041-3803. \nFWS request that you send comments only by the methods described above. FWS will post all comments on https://www.regulations.gov. This generally means that FWS will post any personal information you provide them (see Information Requested \, below\, for more information). \nAvailability of supporting materials: Supporting materials\, such as the species status assessment report\, are available at https://www.fws.gov/​species/​grizzly-bear-ursus-arctos-horribilis or at https://www.regulations.gov at Docket No. FWS-R6-ES-2024-0186.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-grizzly-bear-esa-listing-rule/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T215000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250517T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250416T211834Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250508T063439Z
UID:18374-1747518600-1747519140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline (5/17/25) to comment on USFWS rule change on Endangered Species
DESCRIPTION:Our statement that the deadline   to comment on USFWS rule change on Endangered species \nis 5/17/25 was wrong – it is really May 19th\, 2025. We were off by 2 days. \nThis is an extremely bad rule proposal & must be opposed. \n\n\n\nFor more than 40 years\, the harm definition has protected endangered species by prohibiting acts that result in significant habitat modification or degradation that results in actual death or injury to a species. This prohibition has been absolutely critical to saving species from extinction. It has prevented cutting of old-growth forests where spotted owls nest\, stopped development in Florida panther habitat\, and so much more because the largest driver of extinction — both in the United States and around the world — continues to be human-caused habitat destruction and degradation.\n\n\n\nRescinding the Definition of “Harm” under the Endangered Species Act – PROPOSING AGENCY: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, Interior; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\, Commerce \nFor Federal Register Notice \nhttps://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-06746.pdf \nQuote from the Agencies: \n“The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) (collectively referred to as the Services or we) are proposing to rescind the regulatory definition of “harm” in our Endangered Species Act (ESA or the Act) regulations. The existing regulatory definition of “harm\,” which includes habitat modification\, runs contrary to the best meaning of the statutory term “take.” We are undertaking this change to adhere to the single\, best meaning of the ESA.” \nQuote on how to submit comments \nYou may submit comments by one of the following methods: \n(1) Electronically: Go to the Federal eRulemaking Portal: This document is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register on 04/17/2025 and available online at https://federalregister.gov/d/2025-06746\, and on https://govinfo.gov https://www.regulations.gov. In the Search box\, enter FWS–HQ–ES–2025–0034\, which is the docket number for this rulemaking. Then\, click on the Search button. On the resulting page\, in the panel on the left side of the screen\, under the Document Type heading\, check the Proposed Rule box to locate this document. You may submit a comment by clicking on “Comment.” \n(2) By hard copy: Submit by U.S. mail to: Public Comments Processing\, Attn: FWS– HQ–ES–2025–0034\, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, MS: PRB/3W\, 5275 Leesburg Pike\, Falls Church\, VA 22041–3803. \nWe [Agencies]  request that you send comments only by the methods described above.” \n======== \nWe are not sure of the time-of-day deadline but assume it is midnight EST on the 17th.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-5-17-25-to-comment-on-usfws-rule-change-on-endangered-species/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250519T215000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250519T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250403T150613Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250409T115629Z
UID:18169-1747691400-1747691940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline for extended comment period on Monarch Butterfly's ESA listing proposal
DESCRIPTION:Deadline for an extended comment period on Monarch Butterfly’s ESA listing proposal \n  \nDeadline of new comment period on monarch butterfly proposed listing\, is May 19th\, \nOn March 18th\, the USFWS extended the previous comment period for another  60 days. \nOfficials say the proposed rule includes species-specific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation of the butterfly under section 4(d) of the ESA. \nGo back to our post on the previous March  12th\, 2025 deadline this spring for more details \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/2025-03-12/ \nThe proposed rule\, was published on December 12\, 2024. \nComments that were previously submitted do not need to be resubmitted as they are already incorporated into the public record and will be fully considered in the final listing determination. \nThreats include use of herbicides\, use of pesticides\, climate change and logging in the overwintering sites. \nFish and Wildlife Society quote \n“The reopening of the public comment period for the monarch butterfly will publish in the Federal Register Reading Room today [3/18/25]. A reopened 60-day comment period will open on March 19\, 2025\, and will close on May 19\, 2025. Information about how to submit comments can be found on regulations.gov by searching for docket number FWS-R3-ES-2024-0137. \nEveryone can play a role in saving the monarch butterfly. Because of the species’ general habitat use and wide distribution\, all sectors of society have an opportunity to participate in a broad range of conservation efforts throughout the butterfly’s range. Learn more about the monarch butterfly\, the monarch listing proposal\, and how to help conserve monarch butterflies.”
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-extended-comment-period-on-monarch-butterflys-esa-listing-proposal/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250519T215000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250519T215900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250508T060835Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250518T163404Z
UID:18661-1747691400-1747691940@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Corrected Deadline to comment on definition of "harm"
DESCRIPTION:We had posted that the deadline to comment on rescinding  the definition of “harm” for ESA was May 17th\, that was a mistake\, — it is really Monday\, May 19th. \nThis is the link to the sign on letter that the National Audubon Society offers.\n(You go on-line and submit a pre-fab letter)\n\nhttps://act.audubon.org/a/protect-esa-2025\n\nThis is the link to the federal register where people can submit individual comments.\n\nhttps://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/17/2025-06746/rescinding-the-definition-of-harm-under-the-endangered-species-act\n\nNancy Hilding can e-mail details of a sign on letter for groups (not individuals). The deadline to sign on is sometime on Monday the 19th. This is only for groups\, not individuals. Contact Nancy – phas.wsd@rapidnet.com 605-7872806 cell for more informationl\n\nThe link below has the definition of harm.  By getting rid of the definition\, that destruction of the species’ habitat will cease to be “take” prohibited by the\nESA. This will have terrible impact on our at-risk species.\n\nhttps://www.fws.gov/media/section-7-consultation-technical-assistance-glossary-terms\n\n\n\n\nThe proposed rule would rescind the regulatory definition of ‘harm\,’ defined as any significant habitat modification or degradation that kills or injures wildlife\, effectively rescinding widespread habitat protections for species protected under the ESA. This proposal would be absolutely devastating. \n\n\n\nFor more than 40 years\, the harm definition has protected endangered species by prohibiting acts that result in significant habitat modification or degradation that results in actual death or injury to a species. This prohibition has been absolutely critical to saving species from extinction. It has prevented cutting of old-growth forests where spotted owls nest\, stopped development in Florida panther habitat\, and so much more because the largest driver of extinction — both in the United States and around the world — continues to be human-caused habitat destruction and degradation.\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n  \nGo to our post on May 17th for details\, just use  May 19th as deadline date – A link to that post: \nDeadline (5/17/25) to comment on USFWS rule change on Endangered Species \n \nRescinding the Definition of “Harm” under the Endangered Species Act AGENCY: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service\, Interior; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\, Commerce \nFor Federal Register Notice \nhttps://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-06746.pdf \nThis is the link to the federal register where people can submit individual comments.\n\nhttps://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/04/17/2025-06746/rescinding-the-definition-of-harm-under-the-endangered-species-act\nThis is the link to an Audubon Society sign on letter.\n\nhttps://act.audubon.org/a/protect-esa-2025\n\nThe link below has the definition of harm. Kristal Stoner will  go over this in the ESDC presentation on May 16th eve\n\nhttps://www.fws.gov/media/section-7-consultation-technical-assistance-glossary-terms
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/corrected-deadline-to-comment-on-definition-of-harm/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250521T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250521T163000
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250311T193529Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250311T193943Z
UID:17832-1747832400-1747845000@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Black Hills National Forest\, National Forest Advisory Board May Meeting
DESCRIPTION:Black Hills National Forest\, National Forest Advisory Board\, Wednesday\, May 21st Meeting \nTimes: Begin at 1 p.m. and end no later than 4:30 p.m. \nLocation: Mystic Ranger District Office\, 8221 Mount Rushmore Road\, Rapid City\, SD 57702 \nThe public can attend\, but can’t speak unless ask to speak 3 days in advance \nWritten comments and requests for time for oral comments must be sent to Scott Jacobson\, NFAB Committee Coordinator\, Mystic Ranger District Office\, 8221 Mount Rushmore Road\, Rapid City\, South Dakota\, 57702; or by email to scott.j.jacobson@usda.gov. \nAgendas are posted here: \nhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=STELPRDB5114550
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-national-forest-advisory-board-may-meeting/
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250523T105000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250523T225900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250411T184556Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250523T165346Z
UID:18290-1747997400-1748041140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to Comment on the draft “North American River Otter Action Plan\, 2025-2029."
DESCRIPTION:  \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nDeadline May 23 @ 10:59 pm MT\, 11:59 CT\n\n\nSouth Dakota Game\, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on the draft “North American River Otter Action Plan\, 2025-2029.”\n\n\nThe River Otter Action Plan\, 2025-2029\, is a document that will be used by GFP to guide river otter management in South Dakota through identified management objectives and strategies to meet those management objectives.\n\n\nThe draft river otter action plan can be found here. https://gfp.sd.gov/…/River_Otter_Action_Plan_2025_2029…\n\n\nIndividuals interested in river otter management in South Dakota may provide suggestions and comments on the revised action plan by May 23\, 2025. Written comments must be received by the deadline and include your full name and city of residence. Comments can be sent to 523 E. Capitol Ave.\, Pierre\, S.D. 57501\, or submitted online.\n\n\nNormally SDGFP sets the deadline as midnight CT.\n\n\nYou will also be able to comment to the Commission for the June 5th Commission meeting. See our notice of June 5th-6th meeting at our web site’s events/deadlines calendar. https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/\nThe Commission will adopt the Plan at their June meeting.\n\n\nThe Commission meetings are hybrid and you can comment remotely by Zoom or in person for 3 minutes at the Open Forum \, at about 2 pm in the time zone of the meeting on Thursday afternoons. You can send written comments by Sunday June 1st before midnight CT see our events calendar https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/\nHere is a link to the letter that PHAS submitted on this topic:\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/River-Otter-Management-Planf1.pdf\n\n\nTALKING POINTS\nOtters occur in SD East River and at mouths of tributaries to the Missouri River on the west side of the River. However the otters don’t make it to the far west perennial streams/rivers of SD\, as there is a dearth of riparian habitat in good condition and during dry times\, a lack of dependable water in rivers between the Missouri and further west streams.\n\n\nPrairie Hills Audubon Society supports the reintroduction of river otters to western SD\, which was not planned in earlier river otter management plans and is still not planned with this Action Plan\n.\nBetween the Missouri River and the Black Hills the SDGFP must have a habitat protection/enhancement program to create healthy riparian habitat along the Cheyenne\, Belle Fourche & Little White Rivers. It should have a program to encourage beaver dam analogs being built along tributaries to those rivers\, to improve habitat for otters. River otters are strongly associated with beaver — the beaver dams create habitat and beaver dam analogs are imitation beaver dams.\n\n\n\nThe GFP would need to have a plan to reduce beaver trapping season from 12 months per year to 5 months per year in the counties that host a river otter reintroduction effort –that would be Nov 1st to March 31st\, as river otters have babies in April.\nGFP is likely to adopt a moratorium on beaver trapping in the Black Hills at their June Commission meeting\, so also write in support of the moratorium for beaver hunting/trapping for the Black Hills area.\n\n\n\nPlease explain that watching otters is fun and SDGFP should provide for recreation of  otters for wildlife watching\, not just recreation of hunting/trapping.\n\n\nSubmit written comments here – https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-the-draft-north-american-river-otter-action-plan-2025-2029/
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20250524T235000
DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20250524T235900
DTSTAMP:20260417T070116
CREATED:20250429T212116Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250430T224207Z
UID:18451-1748130600-1748131140@phas-wsd.org
SUMMARY:Deadline to file against Wharf Ground Water Discharge Plan Renewal
DESCRIPTION:This is a direct quote from the DANR’s Notice: \nNotice of Recommendation on an\nApplication for a Groundwater Discharge Plan Renewal \n“Notice is hereby given that the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources(Department) has received a renewal application for an existing Groundwater Discharge Plan from Wharf Resources’ (USA)\, Inc. for the American Eagle Spent Ore Depository at their mining facility in Lawrence County\, South Dakota. The legal location of the depository is portions of Sections 25\, 26\, 35 and 36 of T5N-R2E\, and portions of Sections 1 and 2 of T4N- R2E; approximately 3 miles west of Lead\, SD. The Groundwater Discharge Plan renewal consists of a Groundwater Discharge Permit and a Water Quality Variance. \nThe Secretary of the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is recommending conditional approval of the Groundwater Discharge Plan renewal. Conditions of the Groundwater Discharge Plan consist of neutralization compliance monitoring\, monitoring parameters\, groundwater monitoring requirements\, reporting requirements\, monitor well permitted allowable limits\, offload approval procedures\, offload limits\, nitrate loading limits\, and technical revision authorization. The detailed conditions of the Groundwater Discharge Plan may be viewed on the Department’s public notice webpage at: https://danr.sd.gov/public/default.aspx \nAny interested person may file a petition to initiate a contested case and request a hearing on the Groundwater Discharge Plan renewal and the Department’s recommendation pursuant to the Administrative Rules of South Dakota Chapter 74:50:02 within 30 days of publication of this notice. If no petition to initiate a contested case is filed during the 30-day public notice period\, the Department’s recommendations on the Groundwater Discharge Plan renewal will become final at the close of this 30-day period. \nAny person desiring further information may contact Matt Hicks at the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources\, Water Quality Program\, 523 East Capitol Avenue\, Joe Foss Building\, Pierre\, South Dakota 57501\, Phone: 605-773-3351; or visit the Department public notices website at: https://danr.sd.gov/public/default.aspx \nIn the event a hearing is scheduled\, notice is given to individuals with disabilities that the hearing will be held in a physically accessible place. Please notify the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources at least 48 hours before the public hearing if you have a disability for which special arrangements must be made at the hearing.” \n=========================================== \nWARNING \nDANR had the wrong deadline published on their web site at first. It was originally stated to be May 27th\, but it is May 24th. If a petition is received on the closing day\, the time it is received does not matter. However\,  DANR advises that it is best to file it at least a day or two early to ensure it is received on time.  We need to find out if you can e-mail the petition to Matt Hicks.
URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-file-against-wharf-ground-water-discharge-plan-renewal/
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END:VCALENDAR