BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Prairie Hills Audubon Society - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Prairie Hills Audubon Society X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://phas-wsd.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Prairie Hills Audubon Society REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Denver BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20210314T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20211107T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20220313T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20221106T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20230312T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20231105T080000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0700 TZOFFSETTO:-0600 TZNAME:MDT DTSTART:20240310T090000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0600 TZOFFSETTO:-0700 TZNAME:MST DTSTART:20241103T080000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230420T090000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230420T150000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230415T204441Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230415T204441Z UID:6739-1681981200-1682002800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Wyoming Interagency Timber Industry Resource Meeting DESCRIPTION:Wyoming Interagency Timber Industry Resource Meeting \nThursday April 20th\, 9 am – 3:00 pm. Lunch is provided. \nLocation- Agricultural Resources and Learning Center\, 2011 Fairgrounds Road\, Casper Wyoming\, 82604\, \nCall by April 7th to reserve your spot\,  Kim Hemenway 307-275-6462\, kim.hemenway@wyo.gov\, \n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-interagency-timber-industry-resource-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230420T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230420T180000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T032211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230415T194734Z UID:6341-1681977600-1682013600@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference 2023 DESCRIPTION:The 2023 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference will be held on Thursday\, April 20\, 2023\, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM MDT\, at the Monument\, \, 444 N Mount Rushmore Road Rapid City\, SD 57701 \nMore details may become available as we get closer to the date. \nRegistration fees for professionals are $75 and free for students or general public with the option to purchase lunch for $20. \nRegistration and full agenda is at:. https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2023-western-south-dakota-hydrology-conference-tickets-467920772627 URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/western-south-dakota-hydrology-conference-2023/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230419T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230419T200000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230419T013920Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230419T013920Z UID:6802-1681929000-1681934400@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Rapid City Izaak Walton League Chapter Hybrid Meeting\, April 19th\, 2023 DESCRIPTION:Rapid City Izaak Walton League Hybrid Chapter Meeting\, April 19th\, 2023 \n6:30 PM at SD Game\, Fish & Park’s Outdoor Campus West\, Rapid City \nMeeting agenda includes election of officers. \n  \nTopic: IWLA April 19th Meeting 2023 \nTime: Apr 19\, 2023 06:30 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada) \n  \nJoin Zoom Meeting \nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/86892448142?pwd=bUM0V1VVdUZOZUY3dnVqOEFaTytrZz09 \nMeeting ID: 868 9244 8142 \nPasscode: 232688 \nOne tap mobile \n+16699006833\,\,86892448142#\,\,\,\,*232688# US (San Jose) \n+17193594580\,\,86892448142#\,\,\,\,*232688# US \n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-izaak-walton-league-chapter-hybrid-meeting-april-19th-2023/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230419T130000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230419T163000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230402T220739Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230403T004210Z UID:6592-1681909200-1681921800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:April 2023 National Forest Advisory Board meeting DESCRIPTION:BHNF National Forest Advisory Board’s  (NFAB) April meeting 4/19/23 \n\n  \nNormally the start time is 1:00 pm & they  adjourn at 4:30 pm  MT & happens on the third Wednesday of the month at the Mystic Ranger Station in Rapid City\, 8221 Mt Rushmore Rd\, Rapid City.  This is a group of appointed folks representing diffferent interest groups that advise the Forest Service. FS normally reviews current events on the Forest with them.\n\nThis April date is a tentative date as they must publish announcement in the Federal Register\, please contact FS to verify event closer to meeting and to request an agenda.  Link to a virtual option is offered on the agenda. If you want to speak briefly you should send an e-mail in advance asking for that (3 days prior). For more info\, agendas and/or to send written comments: scott Jacobson \n\nLink to the BHNF  NFAB web page: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114550 URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/april-2023-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230417T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230418T180000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230417T203821Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230417T204750Z UID:6753-1681747200-1681840800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Gilt Edge Mine EPA Superfund Site - Agnico Eagle Mines\, Ltd. Prospective Lessee Public Meeting w/ Monday sign up deadline DESCRIPTION:Gilt Edge Mine EPA Superfund Site – Agnico Eagle Mines\, Ltd. Prospective Lessee Public Zoom Meeting 4/18/23\, at 4 Pm MT.\nThe deadline for public comment on the proposed lease is 4/21/23/\n\nYou are supposed to ask to attend on Monday 4/17/23 and the EPA sends you the Zoom links.  Thus I have posted the date as Monday-Tuesday\, but all you have to do on Monday before 5 pm\,\, is ask for a Zoom link. Nancy Hilding has the Zoom link but I am not supposed to “share publicly” . To ask for link: https://skeo.zoom.us/j/84228181414\n\nPlease submit any questions to: jlockwood@skeo.com. If you read the article below it provides more information. \n==========\nLink to Rapid City Journal announcement\nhttps://rapidcityjournal.com/ads/service/u-s-environmental-protection-agency—ad-from-2023-04-12/pdfdisplayad_a18983b2-f254-5bfe-ab15-d23ce6eeb650.html\nLink to article about in the Black Hills Pioneer:\nEPA seeks public comment on agreement for exploration at Gilt Edge Mine | Local News | bhpioneer.com URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/gilt-edge-mine-epa-superfund-site-agnico-eagle-mines-ltd-prospective-lessee-public-meeting-w-monday-sign-up-deadline/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230417T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230417T235500 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230415T214207Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230418T001727Z UID:6744-1681731000-1681775700@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:BHNF - Comment deadline on 3 road & 1 trail repair projects in Northern Hills DESCRIPTION:BHNF – Scoping comment deadline on 3 road repair and 1 trail repair projects in Northern Hills.  https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/file/1166658664911 \nThe projected deadline is April 16th \, but as that is a Sunday\, the deadline may actually be Monday the 17th\, as normally deadlines on Sundays and holidays are moved. \nThree of these are about land owners wanting to reconstruction or maintain roads to their private properties – at NFRS 577.1B\, NFRS 535.1 and \nSleep[y] Hollow Lane (U110017)\, Here is the project link \nhttps://phas-wsd.org/wp-admin/post.php?post=6744&action=edit \nNFSR 535.1 Road Use Permit \nhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63745 \nOne of them is about a single track tail (Trail 8500) open to motorcycle travel about 17.5 miles SE of Lead\, SD that creates a hazard for the public and harm to local stream at two spots.  Gabion baskets\, concrete mats and rail fencing are proposed for mitigation. In the past activity in a flood plain could be a reason to bump a  CE to an EA. Here is the “Riparian Area Repairs” project link: \nhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63749 \nThe Forest Service seeks to categorically exclude these projects. Comments are due before midnight April 16th.  However scoping deadlines are always a little flexible but sending on deadline is best. For more information call 605-642-4622. \nSend comments to: comments-rocky-mountain-black-hills-northern-hills@usda.gov \nCall the district as one of the road projects  doesn’t have links to PDF project files- you can’t find it  at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/projects/blackhills/landmanagement/projects \nFor Heggs/NFSR 577.16 – ask for Valerie Jagim and for NFSR 535.1 – ask for Toby Aberle. \n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-comment-deadline-on-4-road-and-trail-projects-in-northern-hills/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230417T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230417T235000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230417T220757Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230417T221230Z UID:6760-1681718400-1681775400@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Bat Appreciation Day DESCRIPTION:April 17th is International Bat Appreciation Day. As the weather warms and hibernation ends\, we’ll start seeing more of our bat pals out and about. So take today to appreciate bats and all they do to ensure a thriving and healthy ecosystem! \nIn SD\, especially the Black Hills\, we  have the northern long eared bat whose status was recently (3/31/23) changed from threatened to endangered by the USFWS. \nBat Conservation International is proud to share the first-ever State of the Bats of North America report. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/bat-appreciation-day/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230413T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230413T203000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230413T221151Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230413T221151Z UID:6717-1681408800-1681417800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Norbeck Society April Zoom Meeting DESCRIPTION:Norbeck Society April 13 Meeting on Zoom\nThe Society  hopes you can join them for their monthly meeting\nLinda Black Elk\, Ethnobotanist:  Storytelling as Environmental Advocacy:  6 pm MDT\, April 13\n \n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting:\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09\n\nMeeting ID: 881 7362 1695\nPasscode: 577331\nOne tap mobile: +13052241968\,\,88173621695#\,\,\,\,*577331# US\nDial by your location:   +1 305 224 1968 US\nFind your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kb89VRPsfl\nSpeaker Linda Black Elk is an ethnobotanist and food sovereignty activist specializing in teaching about culturally important plants and their uses as food and medicine. She is eternally grateful for the intergenerational knowledge of elders and other knowledge holders\, who have shared their understandings of the world with her\, and she has dedicated her life to giving back to these peoples and their communities. Linda works to build ways of thinking that will promote and protect food sovereignty\, traditional plant knowledge\, and environmental quality as an extension of her work as a gardener\, forager\, fisher\, hunter\, and gatherer. Linda and her family have also been spearheading a grassroots effort to provide organic\, traditional\, shelf stable food and traditional Indigenous medicines to elders and others in need. Thus far\, they have fed and healed thousands of people. She has written numerous articles\, book chapters\, and papers\, and is the author of “Watoto Unyutapi”\, a field guide to edible wild plants of the Dakota people. Linda proudly serves as the Food Sovereignty Coordinator at United Tribes Technical College in Bismarck\, North Dakota\, where she passes ethnobotanical and food systems knowledge on to her amazing students. She also sits on the board of Makoce Ikikcupi\, a Reparative Justice project on Dakota lands in Minnesota. When she isn’t teaching\, Linda spends her time foraging\, hiking\, hunting\, and fishing on the prairies and waters of the northern Great Plains with her husband and three sons\, who are all members of the Oceti Sakowin\, the Seven Council Fires of the Lakota. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-april-zoom-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230413T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230414T110000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230402T050506Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230402T062139Z UID:6524-1681387200-1681470000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:SD Game Fish and Parks April Commission Hybrid Meeting - Thursday April 13th- Friday 14th\,2023 DESCRIPTION:SD Game Fish and Parks April Commission Meeting – Thursday April 13th- Friday 14th\,2023 \n \nStart time 4/13 at 1 pm CT (noon MT) – End time 4/14 noon CT (and 11 am MT.) \n \nAgenda not yet published\, but likely to begin at 1 pm CT on  Thursday and last till 5 pm on Thursday the 13th and the restart on Friday at  8 am CT  to noon (or earlier)  on  Friday the14th\, \n \nHybrid meeting with physical face-to-face meeting in Brookings and also by Zoom\n \nMore information about the meeting including the agenda & proposals/petitions will be posted here\, when closer to the meeting date :   https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/\n \nDeadline to submit written comments is just before midnight CT on Sunday the 9th of April . Written comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. To be included in the public record\, comments must include your complete name and city of residence and meet the submission deadline of seventy–two hours before the meeting (not including the day of the meeting) (Sunday night before midnight CT or MT depending on time zone of physical meeting)  Unless you want to send directly to each Commissioner (no deadline)  –  https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/members/  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-april-commission-hybrid-meeting-thursday-april-13th-friday-14th2023/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230413T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230413T170000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230403T200953Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230414T030325Z UID:6631-1681372800-1681405200@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Comment Deadline Wharf Large Scale Mine Permit Application DESCRIPTION:This is about another new expansion of about 46 acres for Wharf . \n\n\nWritten objections to\, statements in support of\, or petitions to intervene and become a party to the proceedings pursuant to ARSD 74:29:01:09 must be filed with the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources no later than April 13\, 2023. Comments may be submitted in writing or online at http://danr.sd.gov/public/default.aspx. Information about the contents of a petition can be found in ARSD 74:09:01:01 at https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/26972.\n\n\nPublic notice: https://danr.sd.gov/Press/docs/publicnotices/MineralsMining/WharfBostonNOF2.pdf \nLink to find Application & its’ appendices: \nhttps://danr.sd.gov/Environment/MineralsMining/Exploration/NewMinePermits.aspx \nThe Application: \nhttps://danr.sd.gov/Environment/MineralsMining/Exploration/docs/BostonExpansionMinePermitApp.pdf \nSpecific  commenting link: https://danr.sd.gov/public/comment.aspx?d_comment=04/13/2023&name=Wharf Resources (USA) Inc&pntype=mm_app&description=Notice of Filing of Large Scale Mine Permit Application URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-wharf-large-scale-mine-permit-application/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230410T233000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230411T000000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T220333Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230406T235903Z UID:6352-1681169400-1681171200@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Deadline Scoping Comments on Newark Exploration Project (mining) DESCRIPTION:Newark Exploration Project \nThe comment deadline has been extended.While the district will consider scoping comments at any time\, they will be most helpful if submitted by April 10\, 2023. \nThis is a mine exploratory drilling project on Forest Service (FS) land in  Custer County. Suggested deadline for the FS receipt of scoping letters  was March 2nd\, 2023 (the deadline was extended to April 10th\,). The scoping letter and the attached maps\, the accepted Plan of Operations\, and other supporting documents can be found on the project website: \nhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63527 . \nScoping letter deadlines are a little flexible\, but the FS wants comment documents received via e-mail/fax before midnight of the deadline day or postmarked that day  (when they are actually serious about comment deadlines). \nClean Water Alliance has an alert on this issue on it’s web page. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-scoping-comments-on-newark-exploration-project-mining/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230410T224000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230410T225000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230402T221217Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230411T035824Z UID:6597-1681166400-1681167000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Comments due to SDGFP on Draft Prairie Grouse Management Plan DESCRIPTION:  \nComments due to SDGFP on Draft Prairie Grouse Management Plan\n\nApril 10th\n\n\n\nThe South Dakota Game\, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on the draft “Prairie Grouse Action Plan for South Dakota\, 2023-2027.”All individuals interested in prairie grouse management in South Dakota may provide suggestions and comments on the revised plan in its current form– until April 10\, 2023. \n By “Prairie grouse”  GFP means sharp tailed grouse and greater prairie chicken.  Greater sage grouse have their own management plan. Other birds with management plans are the least tern\, piping plover\, bald eagle\, pheasant\, Canada goose and wild turkey. These are or were threatened and endangered species or are hunted species. There is also a  2005 “All Bird Conservation Plan” \nSD’s final and draft wildlife and bird management plans can be found online at: https://gfp.sd.gov/management-plans/. \,  \nProposed draft prairie grouse plan 2023-2027  https://gfp.sd.gov/userdocs/docs/prairiegrouseactionplan.pdf \nCurrent prairie grouse plan\, 2017 ̶ 2021 https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/docs/prairie_grouse_plan_2017-2021_final.pdf\n \nA supportive document can be found at\nhttps://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/docs/management_of_prairie_grouse.pdf\nWritten comments on the plan can be sent to 523 E. Capitol Ave.\, Pierre\, S.D. 57501\, or emailed to prairiegrouseplan@state.sd.us. \nSDGFP announcement says the comments must be received by the deadline (4/10/23) and include your full name and city of residence. We are not sure if the deadline is close of business (COB) on  April 10th  or midnight Central Time\, if we find out we will post it here. Midnight would be logical\, but it would be safe to use COB.    URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-to-sdgfp-on-draft-prairie-grouse-management-plan/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230408T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230408T100000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230402T054828Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230405T221547Z UID:6535-1680940800-1680948000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:SDOU Field Trip at Outdoor Campus East (Sioux Falls) DESCRIPTION:SD Ornithologist Union (SDOU) field trip at one of the Outdoor Campuses  led by Chris Anderson. >  canderson1@sio.midco.net\, 605-254-2550 \nThere are 2 Outdoor Campuses in SD — one in the East (Sioux Fall) and the West (Rapid City) and the SDOU announcement did not specific which Campus. \nChris Anderson lives in Sioux Falls and has clarified that it is in Sioux Fall.  We briefly for a few days had this as a Rapid City event – it is not.. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdou-field-trip-at-outdoor-campus-west/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230407T233000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230407T235000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230402T011107Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230402T223133Z UID:6510-1680910200-1680911400@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Chimera Timber Sale Comment Deadline 4/7/23 DESCRIPTION:The draft environmental assessment (EA) for the Chimera Fuels Reduction Project (Chimera Project) is available for review and comment. It is located east of Lead/Deadwood\, SD and south of Sturgis\, SD\, encompassing the Boulder Canyon\, Galena\, and Vanocker Canyon areas.\n\nThe draft EA is available for review by visiting the project website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61689.\n\nThe Forest Service says:\n\n\n“The project area encompasses a total of 55\,159 acres (includes 15\,942 acres of private) in the northeastern corner of the Northern Hills Ranger District\, east of the communities of Lead and Deadwood\, and south and west of the Interstate 90 corridor\, which includes the communities of Whitewood\, Sturgis\, and Tilford. Major geographical features located within the project area include Vanocker Canyon\, Deadman Mountain\, Dome Mountain\, Crook Mountain\, Veterans Peak\, and Strawberry Ridge. \nThe purpose of the Chimera project is to increase the resiliency of forest landscapes and communities to wildfire\, decrease the impacts of wildfires within the wildland urban interface\, and allow for an effective and safe response to wildfires when they occur by implementing vegetation treatments that would reduce ladder fuels\, thin dense pine stands\, and promote the expansion of hardwood stands and meadows while working toward management area objectives within the project area.” \n\nThe project is being prepared under provisions of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act of 2003 (HFRA) and the Western Firesheds Emergency Action Determination (EAD) under Section 40807 of the 2022 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as this area is one of the top ten firesheds in the region as identified in the Chief’s 10 year wildland fire strategy.\n\n\nComments on the draft EA will be accepted for 30 days beginning on the first day after the date of publication of a legal notice in the Rapid City Journal\, which was published on March 8\, 2023\, thus the deadline will be postmarked on April 7th\, or e-mailed/faxed before midnight on April 7th.\n\n\nThe most efficient method of submitting comments on this draft EA is by visiting the project website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61689) and clicking the “Comment/Object on Project” link. You may also submit comments to the project leader\, Chris Stores\, by mail\, phone\, or fax to: \nNorthern Hills Ranger District\n2014 North Main Street\nSpearfish\, SD 57783\nTelephone: (605) 642-4622\nFax: (605) 642-4156\n\nChris’s e-mail may be Chris.Stores@usda.gov or Christopher.Stores@usda.gov (please verify)\n\n\nChimera\nhttps://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61689 \n\n\n\n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/chimera-timber-sale-comment-deadline-4-7-23/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230404T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230404T210000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230315T173744Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230406T040222Z UID:6438-1680633000-1680642000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:PHAS monthly meeting - On BHNF timber issues by Zoom DESCRIPTION:This meeting will have as speakers Mary Zimmerman (volunteer from Norbeck Society) and Dave Mertz (retired forester\, previously of BHNF). \nIn mid March the speakers traveled to Washington DC to lobby for a few days on forest related issues. They will be reporting on their trip and discussing the dramatic over-cutting of the BHNF and how to to stop that over-cutting and protect the forest’s biodiversity\, scenery\, outdoor recreation and other values\, besides timber production. \nWe normally meet on a day in the last week of the month\, but have moved the meeting forward a week due to speaker availability. This is a Zoom meeting. \nNancy Hilding is inviting you to a scheduled Zoom meeting.\n\nTopic: PHAS monthly meetings – April\nTime: Tuesday\, April 4th\, 6:30 pm MT to last till no later than 9 pm – Zoom meeting category – recurring meeting >> Meet anytime\n\n\n\nMeeting has happened…contact Nancy for link to Zoom recording  link & password to the  recording on Zoom cloud.\n\n\n\nThe recording will eventually be posted to Vimeo and removed from Zoom Cloud\, but it’s there now. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-meeting-on-bhnf-timber-issues-by-zoom/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230325T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230325T160000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230311T024011Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230311T024011Z UID:6418-1679751000-1679760000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:World Water Day\, March 25th\, Rapid City DESCRIPTION:World Water Day\, Saturday\, March 25th\, Rapid City \nAbys 406 5th St. Rapid City\, SD \nBlack Hills Clean Water Alliance will be updating folks on the event\, which will include prayer walk\, speakers & a silent Auction. For info:  https://bhcleanwateralliance.org/wwd23/?emci=9c5658cb-e0b6-ed11-a8e0-00224832e811&emdi=5d9bf747-63b8-ed11-a8e0-00224832e811&ceid=8015504 \nIf you would like to learn more about how you can help\, please email edbhcwa@gmail.com URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-march-25th-rapid-city/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230315T010000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230315T163000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T031212Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230315T175108Z UID:6339-1678842000-1678897800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:March BHNF - National Forest Advisory Meeting - DESCRIPTION:The March meeting of the Black Hills National Forest Advisory Meeting will happen but only as an informal gathering\, as the Federal Register Notice of the meeting was not posted.  It will be  March 15th\, 2023.  The February meeting was cancelled as the Federal Register Notice was not posted.  Normally they start at 1:00 pm in the afternoon at Mystic Ranger District Office (8221Mount Rushmore Road\, Rapid City\, SD 57702 ) but when more details are available we will post them. To verify details: scott.j.jacobson@usda.gov \,  c: 605-440-1409\n \n\n\n\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-bhnf-national-forest-advisory-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230310 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230311 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T214322Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230310T152042Z UID:6350-1678406400-1678492799@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:2023 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop DESCRIPTION:2023 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop will be March 10 at Outdoor Campus West\, Rapid City. \n  \nZoom link \nhttps://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwqdemtpzwpGNR80xThZtSl3LPTXGElCrN1 \nAmy at asymstad@usgs.gov sets this up. \nIf you haven’t registered yet and you want to attend\, you are encouraged  to do so\, as it will allow you access to attend via Zoom\, just in case you can’t make it in person\, and watch recorded presentations after the workshop. This will also allow us to seamlessly transition to a virtual workshop if the weather is bad on March 10th. Registration is free! Here’s the link: https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwqdemtpzwpGNR80xThZtSl3LPTXGElCrN1.\n\nThe on-site venue is Outdoor Campus – West\, 4130 Adventure Trail\, Rapid City\, SD. In the registration form\, you’ll be asked to indicate whether you will attend on-site or online.  Please indicate “in-person” even if you aren’t sure at this time that you’ll be able to be there. This will help us plan for the “maximum” number of on-site people.  You’ll also be asked if you’ll attend a chili feed after the workshop.\n\n\n\nAfter-workshop Gathering \nThe Nature Conservancy and their volunteers will provide a chili feed at Hay Camp Brewing Company\, 601 Kansas City Street\, Rapid City\, following the workshop. Note that TNC will not provide drinks\, but there are plenty available for purchase from Hay Camp.  \nProgram \nThe day’s program is finalized; click on the hyperlink at the beginning of the sentence to see it. Abstracts for the presentations are here. Note that one of the presentations (“Science and Politics in Forest Management”\, by Sol Smith) will be during the lunch break. If you want to hear that talk and participate in the related discussion\, bring your own lunch! URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/2023-black-hills-area-botany-ecology-workshop/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230309T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230310T230000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230218T014059Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230218T020526Z UID:6360-1678363200-1678489200@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:March SD Game\, Fish & Parks Commission Meeting DESCRIPTION:SDGFP Commission meeting will be in Pierre & likely be hybrid with Zoom option. . Details will be posted to “Current Meeting” web page  when it is closer to meeting date.  Before that the page still has January meeting info. on it. Usually those January proposals or petitions that were given the OK\, move forward to a rule making hearing in March. Visit this link.  – https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-sd-game-fish-parks-commission-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230301T093000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230301T100000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T235033Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230218T012114Z UID:6354-1677663000-1677664800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Deadline to submit photos to National Audubon Society annual photo contest DESCRIPTION:Audubon invites photographers and videographers to submit to the 2023 Audubon Photography Awards\, open for entries from January 11\, 2023\, until March 1\, 2023\, at 12 p.m. (noon) ET. Judges will award eight prizes to photographers and videographers: the Grand Prize\, Professional Prize\, Amateur Prize\, Youth Prize\, Plants for Birds Prize\, Fisher Prize\, Female Bird Prize\, and Video Prize.\n\nPrizes include:\nGrand Prize: $5\,000 USD\nProfessional Prize: $2\,500 USD\nAmateur Prize: $2\,500 USD\nPlants for Birds Prize: $2\,500 USD\nVideo Prize: $2\,500 USD\nFemale Bird Prize: $1\,000 USD\nFisher Prize: $1\,000 USD\nYouth Prize: Six days at Audubon’s Hog Island Audubon Camp for Teens during the 2024 season\nLearn more about at:\nhttps://www.audubon.org/news/2023-audubon-photography-awards-open-entries\nOn our web site menu at Nature Study> Celebrate Nature through Art we have links to photos of past winners – very beautiful. URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-photos-to-national-audubon-society-annual-photo-contest/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230228T183000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230228T210000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230202T235319Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230311T050217Z UID:5816-1677609000-1677618000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:PHAS monthly meeting for February - Presentation by Meghan Carter\, Staff for National Audubon Society's Dakotas' Office DESCRIPTION:This will be a Zoom meeting starting at 6:30 pm on Tuesday 2/28/23. \nMeghan Carter staff of the National Audubon Society (NAS)  from their Dakotas’ office in Fargo\, ND will talk to us about the National Audubon Society’s staff activities & programs in the Dakotas – and NAS programs you can participate in.  We normally have the NAS Dakotas’ office report to us once a year –  normally in January. \nTo watch a recording of this meeting: \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/07mxm8OjRB6pX7_wtTuxJHrps4xTFHp89nJcK1ZKW595Yq9TUidhR9IvGU4OOqpH.v-sgWreKnoJ59SV4 Passcode: 5r9.tFM*\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nJoin Zoom Meeting\nhttps://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9yRmVON3VPU0dRZz09\n\nMeeting ID: 854 3392 0233\nPasscode: 534620\nOne tap mobile\n+16694449171\,\,85433920233#\,\,\,\,*534620# US\n+16699006833\,\,85433920233#\,\,\,\,*534620# US (San Jose)\n\nDial by your location (As far as we know any work in western SD)\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 US\nMeeting ID: 854 3392 0233\nPasscode: 534620\nFind your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbb9dO0PBV URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-meeting-for-february-meghan-carter-staff-for-national-audubon-societys-dakotas-office/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230218T133000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230218T160000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230129T191934Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230205T212715Z UID:5799-1676727000-1676736000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Piedmont (Foothills Area) Cracker Barrel DESCRIPTION: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. There will be 1 hour of Q&A\, then a 20 or 25 minute break (with snacks) and then another hour of Q&A. Bob Burns will moderate.  – It is on Saturday 2/18/23 from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM MT.  \nThe 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 and Meade County.  The Piedmont (Foothills Area) cracker barrel hosts the legislators from Districts 33 and 29 – Kirk Chaffee\, Gary Cammack\, Dean Wink\, Curt Massie\, Phil Jensen & David Johnson.  \n It is located at the Piedmont American Legion Post  The Post is located at 101 Pine Street. It is on the SE side of Piedmont at the intersection of Pine St. & Sturgis Road \nThis will be a hybrid meeting; we will meet face-to-face with the legislators in Piedmont\, but a Zoom option will be available – scroll down for Zoom Link \nThis is the 13th Cracker Barrel in the Foothills Area. and we have the same 5 sponsoring NGOs. – For more information:  \n Prairie Hills Audubon Society\, Nancy Hilding\, (605)-787-6466\, nhilding@rapidnet.com\, http://www.phas-wsd.org;  —- Black Hills Chapter – Dakota Rural Action\, Frank James\, ((605) 881-6245\, fejames@dakotarural.org; —- Piedmont Valley American Legion Post 311\, Kim Anderson\, (605) 787-5886\, kim.ander311@gmail.com; —– Foothills Kiwanis\, Sharon Wilson\, 605-390-5919\, sharwils1@rap.midco.net;  —- Foothills Area Chamber of Commerce\, Ce Faulkner\, (815)-494-5337\, ce.farmersunion@gmail.com\, \nLink to Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83023211094?pwd=RHp1ajFjYzJCQkpEcERiM2NqNWlOUT09  \nMeeting ID: 830 2321 1094 Passcode: 838526 One tap mobile +12532050468\,\,83023211094#\,\,\,\,*838526# US or +12532158782\,\,83023211094#\,\,\,\,*838526# US (Tacoma)  \nDial by your location (As far as we know any number will work in Western SD) +1 253 205 0468 US\, +1 253 215 8782 US (Tacoma)\, +1 346 248 7799 US (Houston)\, +1 669 444 9171\, US +1 312 626 6799 US (Chicago)  \nMeeting ID: 830 2321 1094 Passcode: 838526 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbPOGV2GaP \nThis is also announced on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/653353423227924 URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-cracker-barrel/ ORGANIZER;CN="Nancy Hilding":MAILTO:nhilshat@rapidnet.com END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230217T000000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230220T233000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230218T012729Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230218T081054Z UID:6356-1676592000-1676935800@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Great Backyard Bird Count 2023 DESCRIPTION:Connect to Birds\, to Nature and with Each Other\, \nSpend time in your favorite places watching birds–then tell the GBYBC  about them! In as little as 15 minutes notice the birds around you. Identify them\, count them\, and submit them to help scientists better understand and protect birds around the world. \nBirds are everywhere\, all the time\, doing fascinating things. Join us\, February 17-20\, 2023\, when the world comes together for the love of birds. For more info: \n For more info:https://www.birdcount.org/ \n\n\nHow to Participate \nParticipating is easy\, fun to do alone or with others\, \nand can be done anywhere you find birds. \nStep 1: Decide where you will watch birds. \nStep 2: Watch birds for 15 minutes or more\, at least once over the four days\, February 17-20\, 2023. \nStep 3: Identify all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings: \n\nIf you are a beginning bird admirer and new to bird identification\, try using the Merlin Bird ID app to tell us what birds you are seeing or hearing.\nIf you have participated in the count before and want to record numbers of birds\, try the eBird Mobile app or enter your bird list on the eBird website (desktop/laptop).\n\nIf you already contribute to Merlin or eBird\, continue what you are doing! \nAll Entries over the 4-days count towards GBBC URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-backyard-bird-count-2023/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230216T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230216T203000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T001323Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230217T001323Z UID:6324-1676570400-1676579400@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Norbeck Society February 16th Meeting DESCRIPTION:February public meeting\, Feb 16\, 6 pm: Matte Wilson\, Food Sovereignty Initiative Director Sicangu Co.\,   will speak to Norbeck Society members about “An Indigenous Persons Perspective of COP 27”. \nZoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 \nMeeting ID: 881 7362 1695 Passcode: 577331 URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-february-16th-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230216T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230216T190000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20230217T001750Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230217T001750Z UID:6326-1676566800-1676574000@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:F.S. public meeting on proposed Newark Exploration Drilling Project-Custer DESCRIPTION:  \nThe Hell Canyon Ranger District would like to invite you to a public meeting: \nThe Hell Canyon Ranger District is seeking input on a proposed exploratory drilling project in Custer County\, South Dakota. \nWhere:            Custer High School\, Commons Area \n1645 Wildcat Ln\, Custer\, SD 57730 \nWhen:             February 16\, 2023 (Thursday)\, 5:00pm-7:00pm \n\nNewark Exploration Drilling Project – Request for Comments\nFor your convenience a copy of this scoping letter and the attached maps\, the accepted Plan of Operations\, and other supporting documents can be found on the project website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63527 .\n\n  \n  \n\ \n  URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/f-s-public-meeting-on-proposed-newark-exploration-drilling-project-custer/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20230115 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230216 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20221202T025851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221202T025851Z UID:5548-1673740800-1676505599@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Winter Climate Watch Survey Jan 15 to Feb 15 2023 DESCRIPTION:“Mark your calendar! The winter Climate Watch survey runs from January 15 to February 15\, 2023. Join the 126 chapters\, centers\, and other local organizations that collect valuable information around the impact of climate change on bluebirds\, nuthatches\, goldfinches\, towhees and Painted Buntings. Climate Watch is open to the public—all interested Audubon chapters\, organized groups\, or individuals with an interest in birds are welcome to participate. Learn more URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/winter-climate-watch-survey-jan-15-to-feb-15-2023/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20230112T120000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20230113T120000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20221231T215055Z LAST-MODIFIED:20230109T214148Z UID:5626-1673524800-1673611200@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:January SD Game Fish and Parks Commission Meeting DESCRIPTION:January SD Game Fish and Parks January 2023 Commission Meeting is on January 12- 13th.  \nSD Game Fish & Parks Commission January Meeting  Thursday January 12th – Mountain time:  12 – 4 PM MT or\nCentral time: 1 p.m.-5 p.m. CST;  Friday\, January 13th  7 am-11 AM MT or 8 a.m.-12 p.m. CST: –\nSD Game Fish & Parks Commission January 2023 Meeting (hybrid format: face-to-face or Zoom or teleconference)\nZoom Meeting Link: https://state-sd.zoom.us/j/93912915359?pwd=RDVwK3B2eEk1b2w1dWxzNEhaNzNBUT09 or join via conference call Dial 1 669 900 9128 – Meeting ID: 939 1291 5359 – Passcode: 9502333\nMatthews Training Center\, Pierre | Livestream link:  https://www.sd.net/\n—\n\nMore information about the meeting including the agenda & proposals/petitions is or will be posted here :   https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/\nMeeting agenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/January2023_Agenda.pdf\nThere is no rule finalization hearing this month – just various rule proposals  and a resolution.\nWe ask people to testify orally and oppose another year of funding for the Nest Predator Bounty Program. For talking points  & history on this issue visit our web page on this Nest Predator Bounty Program (NPBP):\nhttps://phas-wsd.org/sd-nest-predator-bounty-program/\n—\n\nYou can testify in person or remotely  by zoom or teleconference on Friday  at 2 pm CT  (1 pm MT) – an “Open Forum” where you can testify on anything. You normally get 3 minutes/person (you can use less).\n—\n\nPublic Input:  To conduct the public hearing and/or open forum as efficiently as possible\, GFP asks those wishing to testify to register by 1:00 pm CST the day of the meeting by email to Liz.Kierl@state.sd.us. Testifiers should provide their full names\, whom they represent\, their city of residence\, and which proposed topic(s) they will address. (Complying with this request is a courtesy to help them run the meeting. At the end the moderator might ask if anyone non-registered wants to testify.)\n—\n\nWritten comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. To be included in the public record\, comments must include your complete name and city of residence and meet the submission deadline of seventy–two hours before the meeting (not including the day of the meeting) (Sunday night before midnight CT was 1/8/23)  Unless you want to send directly to each Commissioner (no deadline)  –  https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/members/   Here are there e-mails:\n“Stephanie.Rissler@state.sd.us” \, “Jon.Locken@state.sd.us” \, “Russell.Olson@state.sd.us” \, “Travis.Bies@state.sd.us” \, “Robert.Whitmyre@state.sd.us” \, “Juliea.Bartling@state.sd.us” \, “charles.spring@state.sd.us” \n—\n\n\nJulie Anderson has had some petitions up nationally on this issue for several years. – Her CARE2 petition currently has 168\,652 signatures and the LADYFREE THINKER petition has 27\,849.   She will present the petitions on Thursday.  This program started 4 years ago – it has been funded repeatedly since the first year.. \nhttps://ladyfreethinker.org/sign-stop-paying-children-to-kill-animals-and-chop-off-their-tails/\nhttps://www.thepetitionsite.com/524/880/254/south-dakota-encourages-kids-to-kill-animals-for-fun-and-profit/ URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/january-sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221214 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20230106 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20221219T044242Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221219T045013Z UID:5623-1670976000-1672963199@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Christmas Bird Counts December 14th thru January 5th DESCRIPTION:CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS IN OUR REGION\nThis is a list of Christmas Bird Counts in South Dakota and immediate parts of nearby states.\n It is created by Prairie Hills Audubon Society of Western SD.\n \nDecember 14th\, 2022-January 5th\, 2023 \nChristmas Bird Counts\nhttps://www.audubon.org/conservation/science/christmas-bird-count\n \nDecember 14th- January 5th\nAudubon’s 123rd Annual Christmas Bird Count (CBC) \n \nAll official counts will be held between the dates\, Wednesday\, December 14th\, 2022 through\, Thursday\, January 5th\, 2023 .\n\nHarding County CBC\, Sunday 12/18/22\, Jessica Howell: jhowell@abcbirds.org (Bad Weather alternate date)\nRapid City CBC\,  Sunday\, 12/18/22\, Michael Melius: mmmelius@hotmail.com\nPierre CBC\, \, Saturday\, 12/19/22\,  Ricky Olson: tatanka40@pie.midco.net\, (Bad Weather alternate date)\nSturgis CBC\,  Friday\, December 23rd. Eric Davis:   speargoose@gmail.com\, (Bad Weather alternate date)\n\nSundance\, CBC\, 12/30/22\, Jen:  ravenssong18@gmail.com\,\n\nSpearfish CBC\, 1/1/23\, Daniel Bjerke: dlbjerke@midco.net\nBadlands National Park CBC\,1/1/23\, NancyDrilling:dril0008@gmail.com\nPine Ridge CBC\, 1/3/23\, Peter Hill: petermhill@yahoo.com\nShadehill CBC\, 1/3/23\, Greg Schonert: Gregory.Schonert@usda.gov –  (Bad Weather alternate date)\nBison CBC\, Not happening this year\, Meghan Dinkins\, meghandinkins@hotmail.com\nPiedmont CBC\, Not happening this year\,\, Gene Hess\, gene@neopaleo.net\,\nHot Springs CBC\, Not happening this year\,\, Duane Weber\, \n\n This year the start of the season overlapped with a 4-day blizzard in parts of the region. Some counts have been rescheduled and we may not have discovered all rescheduled dates.\n \nThis year\, the Audubon Christmas Bird Count will mobilize nearly 80\,000 volunteer bird counters in more than 2\,600 locations across the United States\, Canada\, the Caribbean and Latin America. The Audubon Christmas Bird Count utilizes the power of volunteers to track the health of bird populations at a scale that scientists could never accomplish alone.\n \nThe censuses provide valuable data about the number of bird species and numbers of each species occurring within set geographic areas on an early winter day. The results are compiled into the longest running database in ornithology\, representing 123 years of unbroken data on trends of early-winter bird populations across the Americas. \n \nWhen combined with other surveys such as the Breeding Bird Survey\, Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count provides a picture of how the continent’s bird populations have changed in time and space over the past hundred years. The long-term perspective is vital for conservationists. It informs strategies to protect birds and their habitat\, and helps identify environmental issues with implications for people as well. Christmas Bird Count data have been used in more than 300 peer-reviewed articles.\n \nBirders of all ages are welcome to contribute to this fun\, nationwide community science project\, which provides ornithologists with a crucial snapshot of our native bird populations during the winter months. Each individual count is performed in a count circle with a diameter of 15 miles. At least ten volunteers\, including a compiler to coordinate the process\, normally count in each circle. The volunteers break up into small parties and follow assigned routes\, which change little from year to year\, counting every bird they see. In most count circles\, some people also watch feeders instead of following routes. \n \nInterested birders must arrange with the count compiler in advance to participate.\n \n \nWhat to bring?\nParticipants should bring lunch\, drinking water\, warm clothing and footwear. Binoculars\, field guides and spotting scopes are suggested\, for those who have them.\n The five-dollar fee has been dropped to encourage more participation and the annual published report\, (American Birds) previously available in paper has been made digital – see link:\nhttps://www.audubon.org/content/american-birds-annual-summary-christmas-bird-count\n \nLinks to CBC web pages:\nhttps://www.audubon.org/conservation/science/christmas-bird-count\n \nTo find a count near you on an interactive map:\nhttps://audubon.maps.arcgis.com/apps/View/index.html?appid=ac275eeb01434cedb1c5dcd0fd3fc7b4 URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-counts-december-14th-thru-january-5th/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20221208 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20221210 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20221202T025114Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221202T025500Z UID:5544-1670457600-1670630399@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:South Dakota Game\, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting December 8-9\, 2022 12PM MST DESCRIPTION:General Meeting InformationThis meeting will be held in person\, via zoom/conference call\, and Livestream. Listen to the meeting beginning at 1:00 p.m. CST viaLivestream at https://www.sd.net/remote1/ or join via zoom by clicking on the link below. Depending on your application\, you may berequired to enter the meeting ID and password. Remember to enter your display name and mute your microphone. To help keepbackground noise and distractions to a minimum\, make sure you mute your microphone and turn off your video when you are notspeaking.THURSDAY – December 8\, 2022\, at 1 pm CST / 12 pm MT and FRIDAY – December 9\, 2022\, at 8 am CST / 7 am MTZoom Meeting Link https://state–sd.zoom.us/j/93912915359?pwd=RDVwK3B2eEk1b2w1dWxzNEhaNzNBUT09or join via conference call Dial 1 669 444 9171 Meeting ID: 939 1291 5359 Passcode: 9502333Public Input: To provide comments\, join the meeting in person\, via zoom\, or via conference call per the info above. To conduct the publichearing and/or open forum as efficiently as possible\, we ask those wishing to testify to register by 1:00 pm CST the day of the meetingby email to Liz.Kierl@state.sd.us. Testifiers should provide their full names\, whom they represent\, their city of residence\, and which proposed topic they will address.Written comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. To be included in the public record\, comments must includethe complete name and city of residence and meet the submission deadline of seventy-two hours before the meeting (not includingthe day of the meeting).Call meeting to order at 1:00 pm CST / 12:00 pm MTDivision of AdministrationAction Items1. Conflict of Interest Disclosure2. Approve Minutes of the November 2022 Meeting available athttps://gfp.sd.gov/commission/archives/3. Additional Commissioner Salary Days4. License Request• Chris Petersen\, Director of Administration [Book Doc: In Person]Information Items5. South Dakota Go Outdoors Update• Scott Simpson\, Director of Parks & Recreation [Verbal: In Person]6. New Staff IntroductionsPublic Hearing – 2:00 pm CST / 1:00 pm MTThe portion of the meeting is designated for public comment pertaining to the finalizations listed on the agenda. (Typically limited tothree (3) minutes per person.) Please register to speak with Liz Kierl by 1 pm CST (see notes above).Open Forum – immediately following the Public HearingThe portion of the meeting is designated for public comment on other items of interest. (Typically limited to three (3) minutes per person.)Please register to speak with Liz Kierl by 1 pm CST (see notes above).Petitions 7. East River Rifle Season Change – Feterl/Janecke [Book Doc: In Person]8. Snagging Asian Carp on Missouri River – Snaza [Book Doc: In Person]ProposalsInformation Items9. Archery Antelope and Archery Deer Overview \nSouth Dakota Game\, Fish & Parks Commission Agenda December 8-9\, 2022This agenda is subject to change without prior notice. Page 2Action Items10. Archery Antelope11. Archery DeerFinalizations12. Pet Allowance in Park Facilities• Scott Simpson\, Director of Parks & Recreation [Book Docs: In Person]13. Pet Allowance Fee• Scott Simpson\, Director of Parks & Recreation [Book Docs: In Person]Division of Parks & RecreationAction Items14. Angostura Concession Contract• Sean Blanchette\, Environmental and Cultural Resource Specialist [Book Doc: In Person]Information Items15. Custer State Park Bison Action Report• Matt Snyder\, West Regional Supervisor [Verbal: Virtual?]16. Adams Homestead and Nature Preserve – Agriculture Lease Update• Jeff VanMeeteren\, Southeast Regional Supervisor [Book Doc: In Person?]17. Spring Creek Golf Course Update• Scott Simpson\, Director of Parks & Recreation [Verbal: In Person]18. 2023 Lodging Rate Schedule Update• Al Nedved\, Deputy Director of Parks & Recreation [?: In Person]19. Snowmobile System• Al Nedved\, Deputy Director of Parks & Recreation [?: In Person]20. Winter Parks Recreational Opportunities• April Larson\, Marketing Coordinator [Verbal: In Person]21. Year-End Camping\, Visitation\, and Revenue Review• Scott Simpson\, Director of Parks & Recreation [Handout: In Person]Division of WildlifeInformation Items22. Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plan• Jake Davis\, Fisheries Program Manager [Presentation: In Person]23. Season-Setting Schedule• Andrew Norton\, Wildlife Program Administrator [Presentation: In Person]24. Annual Wildlife Damage Management Report• John Kanta\, Terrestrial Section Chief [Presentation: In Person]25. Ice Fishing Access• Rhet Russell\, Aquatic Habitat and Access Biologist [Verbal: In Person]26. Fall Law Enforcement Efforts• Sam Schelhaas\, Law Enforcement Section Chief [Verbal: In Person]27. License Sales Updates and Reports from the Field• Tom Kirschenmann\, Director of Wildlife [Book Docs: In Person]Solicitation of Agenda Items for CommissionersAdjournNext meeting information: January 12-13\, 2023\, at Matthews Training Center\, Joe Foss Building\, Pierre URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-december-8-9-2022-12pm-mst/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Denver:20221122T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Denver:20221122T120000 DTSTAMP:20260418T082231 CREATED:20221121T195151Z LAST-MODIFIED:20221121T195151Z UID:5492-1669111200-1669118400@phas-wsd.org SUMMARY:Public Hearing on Proposed Shooting Range Ordinance Meade County 10 AM Nov 22 DESCRIPTION:Tuesday morning (10 am)  Nov 22nd\, Meade County Commission has a public hearing on a proposed shooting range \nordinance for Meade County – The second reading before the Commission will be on\n10 am on November 22nd\,  2nd Floor of the Erskine Office Building\, 1300 Sherman Street\, Sturgis\, SD 57785\n \n SD GFP proposes to build a large shooting range at Elk Vale Road near Elk Creek in Meade County. Thus local folks have been asking the Commission for a shooting range ordinance for Meade County this year\, before construction starts. PHAS is concerned as shooting ranges are de-facto lead mines and pose environmental risks.  Lead bullets are deposited from guns and bullets are later reclaimed\, but a shooting range does not have the level of protective environmental regulation that an actual mine does. Lead is a toxic substance with threat to the environment and human health. SDGFP did a very inadequate environmental assessment with very unclear disclosure of mitigations and totally inadequate response to comments. Link to final EA – https://www.fws.gov/media/rapid-city-shooting-range-final-ea\n \nThe County is finally going to adopt ordinances to govern the location and construction of such facilities (This is permitted by SDCL  21-10-32.. )\nThe first reading of the ordinance was Nov 8th. They made no changes at that date\, but said they would study on it and perhaps make changes on the 22nd.\nThis ordinance gives the public an opportunity for better oversight of and public involvement in building of any shooting ranges in Meade County.  Proposed ordinance: https://go.boarddocs.com/sd/meade/Board.nsf/files/CJWLBH55AA5B/$file/Proposed Shooting Range Ordinance.pdf\n \nFor more information on the shooting range issue visit our web site: https://phas-wsd.org/action-alerts/\nWe had a meeting on this topic – recording https://vimeo.com/manage/videos/694666859\nWe hope to have some talking points specific to draft ordinance\, posted on our web page before the 22nd. \nOr contact Nancy.  We have a list serve for this issue. \nWritten comments for the Meade County Commission can be posted on:   https://www.meadecounty.org/commission\nA list of Commissioner contacts is also on this web page\, there are 5 of them:\n Todd Seaman \,\nTalbot Wieczorek \,\nRod Bradley  \,\nRichard Liggett \,\n Doreen Creed \nStaff person in charge who can be sent a letter and ask her to share with all of them: – Rhea Crane – \,\n\nA Meade County Commission hearing on SDGFP petition to relocate a section line that bisects the proposed shooting range may be heard in mid December URL:https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-hearing-on-proposed-shooting-range-ordinance-meade-county-10-am-nov-22/ END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR