Generated by All in One SEO v4.9.7.2, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Prairie Hills Audubon Society Audubon Society in Western South Dakota ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://phas-wsd.org/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Blog](https://phas-wsd.org/blog/) - Please Work New Blog - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel 2024](https://phas-wsd.org/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel-2024/) - Foothills Area Hybrid Cracker Barrel, Piedmont, SD, 2/17/2024 When – Saturday, February 17th, 1:30 pm – 4:00 pm Where – Piedmont American Legion Post Who – Legislators for Districts 29 and 33 have been invited. What is a Cracker Barrel? – It’s a moderated question and answer session where the public can ask their elected representative questions - [Pennington County Commission continued hearing on proposed hard rock mining ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/pennington-county-commission-continued-hearing-on-proposed-hard-rock-mining-ordinance/) - July 19th, Tueda.Where: Commission Chambers, 130 Kansas City St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA (map), The meeting will likely start at 9 am, but the Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance will be the last item on the agenda & likely won’t be reviewed before 10:30 am (please check agenda when published). UPDATE FROM July 5th - [Upcoming Events](https://phas-wsd.org/upcoming-events/) - June 4th is a field trip - we will gather at Outdoor Campus West in the morning, but destination is undecided============================================================================================May 20th, 2022, Endangered Species Day CelebrationMay 20th, 2022, by Zoom at 6:00 pm MTWe will have several speakers, at this point Eileen Dowd Stukel - of SD Game, Fish and Parks - will discuss Recovering America's Wildlife ## Pages - [Home](https://phas-wsd.org/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society - Audubon Society in Western South Dakota Prairie Hills Audubon Society We are a small volunteer run, non-profit working tirelessly to conserve the precious natural resources of our region. Our mission is to educate about, protect and restore our environment and natural heritage. We are a certified chapter of the National Audubon Society. Come join us We need to reshape our perception - [Recorded Meetings](https://phas-wsd.org/recorded-meetings/) - Recorded Meetings Meetings are first recorded to Zoom Cloud & later transferred to Vimeo for long term storage. On Dec 16th, 2024, some were deleted from Zoom Cloud but all may not yet posted to Vimeo ======= 2026 Endangered Species Celebration , May 15th, 2026– Prairie Hills Audubon Society and other sponsors Recording duration: 02:34:34Shareable - [PHAS Event](https://phas-wsd.org/phas-ac/) - PHAS Events UPCOMING MEMBERS ACTIVITIES Winter/Spring 2026 PHAS tries to have members meetings in the last week of the month, but we sometimes change that due to speaker availability or other issues. Our Board meetings are the second Wednesday by Zoom. Go to our event calendar for more details on events. ======== - [Endangered Species Day](https://phas-wsd.org/endangered-species-day/) - Pallid Sturgeon, Hagerty, Ryan/USFWS, Public Domain, https://www.fws.gov/media/pallid-sturgeon-56 Endangered Species Day ENDANGERED SPECIES DAY CELEBRATION 2026 – MAY 15TH, 2026 ThIS event is announced on the PHAS web site calendar at – – https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-is-the-third-friday-in-may/ It is on PHAS Facebook page – https://www.facebook.com/events/1429686852247039/permalink/1429686858913705 ======= Friday, May 15th, 2026 Endangered Species Day Celebration by Zoom Endangered Species Day is a - [Celebrate Nature through Art](https://phas-wsd.org/celebrate-nature-through-art/) - Celebrate Nature through Art The National Audubon Society is named after John James Audubon who was a great artist as well as a naturalist, who documented many birds with paintings, in the 1800s. We realize many folks who love nature are also artists, often in different mediums. Prairie Hills Audubon Society thus has an objective - [Events & Alert Deadlines Calendar](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/) - [PHAS Bill Tracking for SD Legislature](https://phas-wsd.org/phas-bill-tracking-for-sd-legislature/) - Nancy Nancy Hilding, deffered’s Tracking of environmental & some “good government” bills 2026 – 2026 Legislative Calendar Link: https://mylrc.sdlegislature.gov/api/documents/284593.pdf 2026 LEGISLATIVE SCHEDULE The legislature starts on Tuesday the 13th of January, 2026 and ends March 12th, 2026 except for Veto Day on March 30th, 2026. All draft bills are due at Environmental Bill Tracking SD Legislature - [SD Nest Predator Bounty Program](https://phas-wsd.org/sd-nest-predator-bounty-program/) - Above photos by OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA SD Nest Predator Bounty Program Raccoon – 41,204, Opossum – 6,913, Striped Skunk – 3,206, Badger – 334, Red Fox – 245Dependent young of target animals, who died when parent(s) lost are not included in totals. Link to SDGFP’s Tail Tracker web page – https://sdgfp.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/e7bbbd6fa93b48c6a31985aa7c57c5ff ===================== We believe that - [At Risk Species Action Alert](https://phas-wsd.org/recovering-americas-wildlife-act-alert/) - Photo from South Dakota Game FIsh and Parks AT-RISK SPECIES ================ MAY 2026 Update PHAS has a $1,000 grant from the National Audubon Society to sponsor Endangered Spcies Day Chalk Art events and hand out free chalk for month of May 1st-May 17th. PHAS leaders need volunteers to help with this. Every year PHAS - [SD GFP Shooting Complex](https://phas-wsd.org/action-alerts/) - SD GFP Shooting Complex SD Game, Fish and Parks proposed shooting range, in Meade County SD, just east of Elk Vale Road and north of Elk Creek and it is now open to the public. – Before opening it was renamed after Pete Lien and Sons, due to their donations towards the project. It was - [Beaver Alert](https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-alert/) - Beaver Alert VISIT TO SILVER CREEK, Saturday 9/20/25 9/20/25 GROUP VISIT TO BEAVER DAM ANALOG PROJECT ON GREEN GULCH/SILVER CREEK, NORTHERN HILLS There is another group visit to the Beaver Dam Analog Project on Green Gulch and Silver Creek in the Northern Hills on Saturday 9/20/25. Folks will car pool/car caravan from Rapid City at 9 - [Beaver and River Otter](https://phas-wsd.org/beaver-and-river-otter/) - Beaver and River Otter Campaign Beavers Beavers are a critical and useful part of our ecosystem. Beavers are a keystone species. Beavers increase groundwater storage and raise water tables. Beavers decrease flooding. Beavers increase surface water and keep ephemeral and intermittent creeks flowing year-round. Beavers filter sediments and pollutants from streams. Beavers create aquatic habitat - [Mining~Oil~Gas](https://phas-wsd.org/miningoilgas/) - Photo by Curioso Photography Mining, Oil/Gas and Pipelines SAND GRAVEL and CONSTRUCTION AGGREGATE MINING – Prairie Hills Audubon Society believes that SD law and rule governing Sand and Gravel Mines (Chapter 45-6) is very inadequate and needs reform. Folks living in Piedmont SD are the latest community to discover this inadequacy, with a pending - [SD Legislature](https://phas-wsd.org/sd-legislature/) - 2026 Notes. The legislature begins on Tuesday, January 13th, 2026 and View Calendar: – https://mylrc.sdlegislature.gov/api/documents/284593.pdf BELOW IS Mixed OLD 2025 & NEW 2026 INFORMATION, 1)We have checked and updated most of the URLs, but maybe not all. 2) The legislature lost one member to death and three to resignations. We have updated house and senate e-mail lists. - [SD Legislative Cracker Barrels](https://phas-wsd.org/sd-legislative-cracker-barrels-2026/) - 2026 SD Legislative Cracker Barrels - Western SD - there was a pre-session Legislative Cracker Barrel in Piedmont on Saturday 1/10/26 at 1:30-4 pm at the American Legion Post 311. Prairie Hills Audubon is one of the sponsors of this event. Rapid City, Belle Fourche and Sturgis will have their first Cracker Barrels on the 2022 Legislative Cracker Barrel list Western South Dakota Legislative Cracker Barrel or Coffees: Other groups lists of Cracker Barrels SD Rural Electric’s list ACLU’s list Association of School Boards of SD list (see their blog) 2022 Legislative Cracker Barrel list Western South Dakota Legislative Cracker Barrel or Coffees: Belle Fourche Legislative Cracker Barrel: Location to be determined beginning at 12 or 1 p.m. Saturday, February 26 Deadwood Legislative Cracker Barrel In the Deadwood Mountain Grand beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, February 19 Newell Legislative Cracker Barrel: At the Newell City Hall beginning at 9:30 a.m. 108 3rd St. Newell, SD 57760 Saturday, February 26 Piedmont-Foothills Area Legislative Cracker Barrel: VIRTUAL, Zoom Webinar & Livestreamed beginning at 2 p.m. – Link to Prairie Hills Audubon Society of WSD Facebook event notice: https://www.facebook.com/events/1299847693849173acontext=event_action_history[extra_datamechanismsurfacesurfaceedit_dialogextra_datamechanismsurfacesurfacepermalinkextra_datamechanismsurfacesurfaceedit_dialog]ref_notif_typenull Saturday, February 5 Rapid City Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the Event Center at the Western Dakota Tech campus beginning at 9 a.m. 800 Mickelson Dr., Rapid City Saturday, January 29 Saturday, February 12 Saturday, February 26 Saturday, March 5 Virtual option for participation. Spearfish Legislative Cracker Barrel: At the Joy Center beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, January 29 Sturgis Legislative Cracker Barrel: At the Meade County Erksine Building from 9 to 11 a.m. 1300 Sherman St Sturgis, SD Saturday, February 5 Saturday, March Eastern South Dakota Legislative Cracker Barrel or Coffees: Aberdeen Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the Kessler’s Champions Club in the Barnett Center on the NSU campus form 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 1200 S. Jay St., Aberdeen, Saturday, January 29 Saturday, February 12 Saturday, March 5 Brandon Legislative Cracker Barrel: At Tailgators Grill & Bar from 9 to 10:30 a.m. 1013 N. SplitrockBlvd, Brandon Saturday, January 29 To submit questions in advance admin@brandonvalleychamber.com Brookings Legislative Cracker Barrel: In City/County Government Center in the Brookings Chamber Building at 9:30 a.m. 520 3rd St., Brookings Saturday, January 29 (canceled) Saturday, February 12 Saturday, February 26 Clear Lake Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the Deuel School Library from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturday, February 19 Highmore Legislative Cracker Barrel Location to be determined beginning at 9 a.m. Saturday, February 19 Huron Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the Fine Arts Center on the Huron Community Campus from 9 to 10 a.m. 939 Ohio Ave. SW, Huron, Saturday, January 29 Saturday, February 12 Saturday, February 26 Madison Legislative Cracker Barrel: VIRTUAL – Online via the Greater Madison Area’s Chamber of Commerce Facebook page at 9 a.m. Live on Facebook Saturday, February 12 Mitchell Legislative Cracker Barrel: VIRTUAL At the Mitchell Chamber of Commerce from 8 to 9 a.m. 601 N. Main St., Mitchell, Friday, January 28 Pierre Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the Chamber of Commerce Community Room from 10 to 11 a.m. 800 W. Dakota Ave. Saturday, January 29 Saturday, February 12 To submit questions in advance: srankin@pierre.org Redfield Legislative Cracker Barrel: At the C&NW Historic Railroad Depot from 1 to 3 p.m. 715 W 3rd St, Redfield, SD 57469 Monday, February 21 Sioux Falls Legislative Cracker Barrel: On the Southeast Technical College campus from 10 to 11:45 a.m. 2320 N. Career Ave., Sioux Falls, Saturday, February 5 Saturday, February 12 Saturday, February 26 Vermillion Legislative Cracker Barrel: At City Hall from 9 to 11 a.m. 25 Center St., Vermillion, Saturday, February 12 Saturday, February 26 Yankton Legislative Cracker Barrel: In the City Commission Room at the CMTEA building from 10 to 11 a.m. 1200 W. 21st St., Yankton, Saturday, January 29 Saturday, February 12 Saturday, March 5 - [Sage Ecosystem Campaign](https://phas-wsd.org/sage-ecosystem-campaign/) - Sage Grouse Ecosystem Campaign PHAS’s Sage Grouse Ecosystem BLM Campaign RECENT HISTORY DECEMBER 22, 2025. BLM publishes FEISs and Records of Decisions (RODs) on the rewrite of the BLM’s Resource Management Plans (RMPs) that govern sage grouse management on BLM lands. PHAS objects to the new RMPs and will contemplate suing - [Christmas Bird Counts, Regional](https://phas-wsd.org/christmas-bird-counts-regional/) - 2023-2024 Regional list of Christmas Bird Counts REGIONAL 126th CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT ANNOUNCEMENT (12/14/2025-1/5/2026). TBD means – CBC Date To Be Determined Rapid City, Sturgis, Wind Cave, Pierre, Mitchell, Aberdeen, & Yankton in South Dakota were counting on the first day -Sunday, Dec 14th, 2025; Christmas Bird County Circles that need - [Pollution Mitigation](https://phas-wsd.org/pollution-mitigation/) - Photo by Milan Degraeve Pollution Mitigations Go to the PHAS events and deadline calendar – https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/ – In the Week of Sept 14th-20th, there is notice of a Sept 15th deadline to comment on EPA’s plans to rescind their endangerment finding, which allows them to regulate green house gas pollution TWO ADVERSE BILLS MOVING IN FEDERAL - [Climate Change Action Alert](https://phas-wsd.org/elementor-15509/) - Photo by Etienne Girardet Climate Change Action Alert Info on deadlines can be found on the deadline date, at our web site’s events/deadline calendar – https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/ CURRENT COMMENT OPPORTUNITY Pennington County is amending its’ Alternative Energy Ordinance. Pennington County Commission will review the proposed draft on Dec 16th Tuesday after 10:30 am and possibly vote - [Black Hills National Forest](https://phas-wsd.org/black-hills-national-forest/) - Black Hills National Forest Alerts PAGE’s TOPIC INDEX: PHAS and the Norbeck Society will host Chad Hanson, of the John Muir Project, as a speaker for forest fires, on either October 21st or 22nd, 2025 by Zoom. To get an idea about what Chad might talk about read John Muir Project 36-page Substantive Comment Letter - [Black Hills National Forest](https://phas-wsd.org/black-hills-national-forest-campaign-work/) - Black Hills National Forest Campaign Black Hills National forest is being over logged and we need a forest plan revision. We were insisting on release of the GTR; which we got. We were insisting on a forest Plan revision ASAP to reduce the cut; Plan Revision is in the works. — Update: The BHNF released the - [Mountain Lion Alert](https://phas-wsd.org/cougar-alert/) - Photo credit: https://bigcatfacts.net/cougar/ Mountain Lion Alert — 2025 SOUTH DAKOTA – SDGFP, at the July meeting, proposed increasing the area in the Black Hills were hound hunting of cougars is allowed. It would expand that area from Custer State Park to private & federal lands (BHNF) in the southern Hills, but with a limit on 15 - [Political Contacts](https://phas-wsd.org/political-contacts/) - Political Contacts THIS PAGE IS UNDER CONSTRUCTION – We will add more contacts FEDERAL ================================= Current congress – https://www.congress.gov/ Contact Congressman Dusty Johnson – https://dustyjohnson.house.gov/contact DC Office – Phone: (202) 225-2801, (855) 225-2801Contact Senator John Thune – https://www.thune.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/contact DC OfficePhone: (202) 224-2321Fax: (202) 228-5429Toll-Free: 1-866-850-3855Contact Senator Mike Rounds – https://www.rounds.senate.gov/contact DC Office: Phone: (202) 224-5842, Fax: (202) 224-7482 Toll - [Board Members](https://phas-wsd.org/elementor-8775/) - Board Members PHAS Board meetings are held by Zoom and members are welcome to attend. Dates are announced on PHAS events page Nancy Hilding – President Nancy is - [In the News](https://phas-wsd.org/in-the-news/) - News Items This web page will have links to newspaper and web alerts and articles Protect Endangered Species: On July 23rd, the Endangered Species Coalition sent out this alert on the Endangered Species Act: “Congress plans to vote soon on several bills that could spell doom for endangered species. These bills are filled with anti-wildlife “riders” - [Publications](https://phas-wsd.org/our-publications/) - Publications PHAS BLOG MOVED TO NEW INDEPENDENT URL Our Google blog is still active but has been disconnected from the web site, and no longer automatically appears as our home page. If you were used to using our former “Home page” (that was the blog) for information about Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s events, alerts, news, - [Citizen Science](https://phas-wsd.org/citizen-science/) - Community Science (Bird Counts) National Audubon’s Christmas Bird Count Season. This years (2024-2025) is Saturday Dec 14th to Sunday January 5th. We have moved the 2024-2025 Regional Christmas Bird Count List to it’s own web page on our web pages – visit: https://phas-wsd.org/christmas-bird-counts-regional/ To download last years 124th CBC announcement from PHAS as a PDF - [Networking](https://phas-wsd.org/partners/) - Networking Our PHAS BLOG, Website and PHAS FACEBOOK PAGE information may overlap. =================================================================== PHAS LIST SERVE ON BIRDS PHAS has a list-serve for members and friends focused on birds and birding. All field trips are announced on this list-serve and it is available for members and friends to communicate about birds and issues related to - [Birding](https://phas-wsd.org/__trashed-4__trashed/) - Birding =================================================================================== BIRDS ARE THE MOST POPULAR WILDLIFE FOR USA WILDLIFE WATCHERS The United States Fish & Wildlife Service does periodic surveys of wildlife-associated recreation, Visit this link to see the 2022 survey & learn how popular & economically significant wildlife watching is. https://www.fws.gov/media/2022-national-survey-fishing-hunting-and-wildlife-associated-recreation The Survey estimates participation and expenditures of persons 16 - [Elementor #15341](https://phas-wsd.org/elementor-15341/) - Photo by Glenn Carstens-P Alerts Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo. - [Predators](https://phas-wsd.org/predators/) - Predators Prairie Hills Audubon Society has campaigns to protect various predators. Predators can be hunted/trapped as it is feared they will kill or harm livestock and/or pets – or even humans. They can also be hunted/trapped as the hunters believe they compete with hunters for prey, such as deer, elk, antelope, ducks, pheasants, etc. Hunters - [Reform of GFP Policy](https://phas-wsd.org/reform-of-gfp-policy/) - Reform of GFP Policy Expanding SDGFP’s Wildlife Management Vision Across the United States many state agencies, with duties to watch over wildlife, are highly influenced by the desires of the hunting/fishing/trapping community. Concerns and interests of the wildlife watching & animal welfare communities may be sidelined in favor of the hunting/fishing/trapping communities. Some state agencies - [Nest Predator Bounty Program](https://phas-wsd.org/nest-predator-bounty-program/) - Nest Predator Bounty Hunter - [Join Us](https://phas-wsd.org/about-us/) - Join Us If you would like to join, support or volunteer for an organization making a local difference come join us. Give us a call, email us, or come visit us. Prairie Hills Audubon Society is operated by volunteers; we have no paid staff. All persons interested in conservation of our region are - [Protect SD Raccoons](https://phas-wsd.org/protect-sd-raccoons/) - Protect SD Raccoons – Prairie Hills Audubon Society HOUND HUNTING OF RACCOONS At it’s June 6th 2024 Meeting SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission will be voting on a rule change proposal to allow out-of-state hound hunters to hunt raccoons. Here is a link to the rule proposal: https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/Raccoons.Hound_HuntRule.June23Commission.pdf This At it's June Meeting SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission will be voting on a rule change proposal to allow out-of-state hound hunters to hunt raccoons. This is in part to enhance raccoon hound hunting competitions. - [Resources](https://phas-wsd.org/copy-of-networking/) - Resources Our PHAS BLOG, PHAS FACEBOOK page information may overlap with our Website. ================================================================================== PHAS LIST SERVE ON BIRDS PHAS has a list-serve for members and friends focused on birds and birding. All field trips are announced on this list-serve and it is available for members and friends to communicate about birds and issues related - [Donate](https://phas-wsd.org/__trashed/) - Donate To donate to the Prairie-Hills Chapter of the Audubon Society you may 1. Send a check to Prairie Hills Audubon Society, at P.O. Box 788, Black Hawk, SD 57718 2. Use PayPal by clicking the button below (you do not need a PayPal account and any of the credit cards below are accepted). Your - [Conservation and Prairies](https://phas-wsd.org/conservation-and-prairies/) - Conservation and Prairies Conservation General management of our public lands in our region (National Grasslands and Forests, BLM, Parks and Refuges). Protection of roadless and wild areas, especially Sand Creek Roadless Area (Black Hills National Forest) in Wyoming. Protection of rivers and wetland habitat, especially the Missouri River, Cheyenne River, Sand Creek/ Belle Fourche River, - [Rivers and Wetlands](https://phas-wsd.org/rivers-and-wetlands/) - Rivers and Wetlands Rivers Lewis and Clark traveled the Missouri River in their famous journey to explore western North America. Although the river has now been dammed, channelized, and otherwise altered, some natural flowing stretches can be found in South Dakota. And several listed species such as the least tern, piping plover, and pallid sturgeon - [Blog](https://phas-wsd.org/blog-2/) - B - [Events + Alerts](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts-2/) - This is an index page for Events and Alerts. . This is a index or site map page. Events + Alerts Events & Alerts Action Alert Proposed Shooting Range SD Legislature SD Legislative Cracker Barrels - [Blank Alert](https://phas-wsd.org/blank-alert/) - [Nature Study](https://phas-wsd.org/copy-of-documents/) - Nature Study Wildlife watching or “nature study” exceeds hunting/fishing for participants 2016 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting, and Wildlife-Associated Recreation: National Overview https://wsfrprograms.fws.gov/subpages/nationalsurvey/national_survey.htm Download the USFWS survey on wildlife related recreation 2016.Wildlife watching – page 7, fishing- page 5, hunting -page 6Nationwide:Total wildlife watching expenditures: $75.9 billion, Total fishing expenditures: $ 46.1 billion, Total hunting - [Gallery](https://phas-wsd.org/gallery/) - Some of the places and biodiversity we protect. - [Wildlife](https://phas-wsd.org/elementor-1458/) - Wildlife Campaigns PHAS works tirelessly to help protect rare species such as state and federal species listed as threatened or endangered on Federal or state lists. Protectings species that various agencies or States/Tribes have identified as “at risk” in their zone of influence, but that are not yet considered threatened or endangered. This is also - [Privacy Policy](https://phas-wsd.org/elementor-1158/) - Our Privacy Policy Who we are Our website address is: https://phas-wsd.org. Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. Media If you upload images to the website, you should avoid uploading ## My Templates - [Default Kit](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=default-kit-2) - [Endangered page](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=endangered-page) - At Risk Species Action Alert March 12th, 2025, deadline to comment on the USFWS proposed listing of the monarch butterfly as threatened, under the ESA. On December 10, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) proposed that the monarch butterfly be listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. A 90-day public comment period on - [The Events Calendar - Starter](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=the-events-calendar-starter) - « All Events This event has passed. postponed (DEMO) This event has been postponed. Your Events Calendar Template August 8 @ 6:51 pm $10 Categories: Demo Category Tags: demo-tag-1, demo-tag-2 Website: http://theeventscalendar.com John Doe 555-555-5555 View Organizer Website info@theeventscalendar.com Mock Venue 1005 S Michigan Ave Chicago, Illinois United States + Google Map 123-456-7890 View Venue - [weird legislative page](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=weird-legislative-page) - [legislative page](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=legislative-page) - [shooting range page](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=shooting-range-page) - Action Alerts Current Alerts Take Survey for the 2022 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and Game, Fish and Parks are looking for your input through their survey which will help plan for future outdoor recreation in South Dakota. ============================================================================================ SD Game, Fish and Parks proposed shooting range, in Meade County SD, just east of Elk - [nature study maybe](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=nature-study-maybe) - Resources - [Default Kit](https://phas-wsd.org/?elementor_library=default-kit) ## MailPoet Page - [MailPoet Page](https://phas-wsd.org/?mailpoet_page=captcha) - [mailpoet_page] - [MailPoet Page](https://phas-wsd.org/?mailpoet_page=subscriptions) - [mailpoet_page] ## Events - [Deadline to comment to SD DOT on the planned rebuild of Highway 85](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-to-sd-dot-on-the-planned-rebuild-of-highway-85/) - Deadline to comment to SD DOT on the planned rebuild of Highway 85 from Cheyenne Crossing to Wyoming border is Sept 4th, 2026 Hwy. 85 Cheyenne Crossing to Wyo. Line project: https://dot.sd.gov/ushighway85towy Questions or comment to the SD DOT about Hwy. 85 project: Mark.Malone@state.sd.us David Miller is one of the people organizing opposition to - [Comment Deadline for BHNF Roby Forest Management Project July 15th,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-for-bhnf-roby-forest-management-project-july-15th/) - Comment Opportunity, quote from FS FS offered about a 20 day comment period on this project. This might be a scoping letter, we are not sure how emergency projects NEPA process works and if commenting on the EA will be allowed.. An Environmental Assessment is expected out in the fall of 2026. "We [BHNF] welcome your - [Comment Deadline — Forest Service "Directives" Rule (public-comment rollback)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-forest-service-directives-rule-public-comment-rollback/) - Title: Comment Deadline — Forest Service "Directives" Rule (public-comment rollback) Date: Friday, July 31, 2026 Body: Public comments due to USDA Forest Service on proposed rule RIN 0596-AD74, which would weaken the public's right to see and comment on how national forests — including Black Hills National Forest — are managed. The rule reclassifies Forest - [Deadline to comment on BLM's proposed revisions of Biden era fluid Leasing reforms.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-blms-proposed-revisions-of-biden-era-fluid-leasing-reforms/) - Oil and Gas Leasing proposed rule, 91 FR 38084, Docket BLM-2025-0037, comments due August 24, 2026, with the companion Royalty/lost gas rule (91 FR 37906) on the same deadline. BLM published two related proposed rules in the Federal Register on June 24, 2026, both with public comments open until August 24, 2026: 1. Oil and - [Republican Run-off Primary for Governor](https://phas-wsd.org/event/republican-run-off-primary-for-governor/) - The South Dakota GOP gubernatorial primary runoff is Tuesday, July 28, 2026 — a week and a half from now — between Toby Doeden and Larry Rhoden, since no candidate cleared the 35% threshold in the June primary. If you are a republican, you should vote! - [SD GFP Commission September Meeting -Sept 10th-11th, Hybrid Winner and Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-commission-september-meeting-sept-10th-11th-hybrid-winner-and-zoom/) - SD GFP Commission September Meeting will be Sept 10th-11th at Winner and by Zoom Visit this site closer to the meeting for the Agenda and Commission Book. https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Changes to the States list of Threatened and Endangered Species are proposed...that would be delisting the Interior Least Tern and the Eskimo Curlew and some changes to the - [Comment on EPA's Proposal to Rescind Regulatory Determinations Four PFAS Substances (PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and the Mixture of These Three PFAS Plus PFBS)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-on-epas-proposal-to-rescind-regulatory-determinations-four-pfas-substances-pfhxs-pfna-hfpo-da-genx-and-the-mixture-of-these-three-pfas-plus-pfbs/) - Comment on EPA's Proposal to Rescind Regulatory Determinations Four PFAS Substances (PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and the Mixture of These Three PFAS Plus PFBS) EPA-HQ-OW-2025-0654 PC and Removal of Related Provisions for Four PFAS Substances (PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA (GenX), and the Mixture of These Three PFAS Plus PFBS) - The proposed action was published - [Deadline to comment on EPA proposal to extend PFOA and PFOS compliance deadline for 2 years](https://phas-wsd.org/event/23095/) - The EPA proposed Docket ID EPA-HQ-OW-2025-1742 to extend the PFOA and PFOS compliance deadline from April 26, 2029, to April 26, 2031. Qualifying water systems unable to meet the 4.0 parts per trillion (PPT) maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) can apply for this two-year federal extension to complete infrastructure upgrades. [1, 2, 3] Key Details of - [Scoping Comment Deadline for on the USDA-APHIS Programatic EIS on Grasshopper and Mormon Cricket Suppression Program -](https://phas-wsd.org/event/23089/) - Comment deadline for scoping on the USDA-APHIS Programatic EIS - Notice was published in the Federal Register on June 18, 2026 (Vol. 91, No. 117). This aligns with the July 20th comment deadline. It is a Notice of Intent (NOI) by USDA-APHIS to prepare a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement (PEIS) for its Grasshopper and Mormon - [Deadline on US Highway 85 in Northern Hills, Project Public Comment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-on-us-highway-85-in-northern-hills-project-public-comment/) - US Highway 85 Project Public Comment June 11 – September 4, 2026 notes June 19th is the deadline for public comments on the US Highway 85 Project. Wyoming State Line to Cheyenne Crossing. Email Comments to: Mark.Malone@state.sd.us We assume the deadline is midnight MT on Sept 4th, but it could be a Central Time deadline - [Deadline for Scoping Comments on APHIS Insecticide Spraying PEIS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-scoping-comments-on-aphis-insecticide-spraying-peis/) - Deadline for Scoping Comments on APHIS Insecticide Spraying PEIS Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), U.S. Department of Agriculture, plans to prepare a programmatic environmental impact statement (PEIS) to analyze the effects of a program to suppress populations of grasshoppers and Mormon crickets from rangeland in seventeen states of the western United States (Arizona, California, Colorado, - [Comments on the Revision of Regulations for BLM's Grazing Administration, Exclusive of Alaska](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-on-the-revision-of-regulations-for-blms-grazing-administration-exclusive-of-alaska/) - COMMENTS ON REVISION OF REGULATIONS FOR GRAZING ADMINISTRATION, EXCLUSIVE OF ALASKA; A proposed rule by the Bureau of Land Management, published 5/12/2026 (91 FR 26852) Federal Register announcement - visit this link for details https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/05/12/2026-09387/revision-of-regulations-for-grazing-administration-exclusive-of-alaska Send your comments on this proposed rule to the Department of the Interior (Department) on or before July 13, - [Spearfish Watershed Festival 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/spearfish-watershed-festival-2026/) - 2026 Spearfish Creek Watershed Festival Announcement, Saturday August 1st, 2026 Planned events are: 9-12 am- Hydro plant tours 12-2 pm - Creek clean up 2-4 pm - Community Education - The community education portion of the festival will be at the central shelter in the Spearfish City Park. This will at least involve various groups having - [Water Management Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-board-meeting/) - A meeting is scheduled for the Water Management Board on 7/8/2026 9:15:00 AM. Please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal to learn more about past and upcoming meetings! Here is a link to the agenda: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 We are not sure but now-a-days these meetings are normally broadcast on SD Public Broadcasting (see first link). A - [Deadline to submit written comments to SDGFP Commission July meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-july-meeting/) - Deadline to submit written comments to SDGFP Commission July meeting is just before midnight CT the Sunday before the meeting. When a state agency has hearings, the deadline may be 72 hours before the day of the hearing - it depends on the type of board it is. On our Calendar, go to the meeting - [Black Hills Group Sierra Club meeting on BoME hearing on Craven Canyon mine exploration proposal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-group-sierra-club-meeting-on-bome-hearing-on-craven-canyon-mine-exploration-proposal/) - YOU are invited to a program, sponsored by the Black Hills Group of the Sierra Club, Monday, July 6th. at 6:30 p.m. at the SD GFP's Outdoor Campus - West in Rapid City. Attorney George Nelson will give an update on the Board of Minerals & Environment hearing on uranium exploration proposed for Craven Canyon, ancient - [SDGFP Commission July meeting 7/9-7//10/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-commission-july-meeting-7-9-7-10-26/) - SDGFP Commission July meeting 7/9-7//10/26 in Webster and by Zoom https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/schedule/ More information will be available at current meeting overview closer to meeting date https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Go to our notice of June Commission meeting, if there are any rule finalizations in July those may have been apparent as proposals or petitions for rule making in June - [COMMENT DEADLINE: Rice's Whale ESA Status Review — July 6, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-rices-whale-esa-status-review-july-6-2026/) - COMMENT DEADLINE: Rice's Whale ESA Status Review — July 6, 2026 NMFS has initiated a 5-year ESA status review of the Rice's whale — the world's most endangered great whale, with only ~51 individuals surviving, all in the Gulf of Mexico. This review follows the Trump administration's March 31, 2026 "God Squad" decision exempting all - [Webinar on Saving Rice's Whale , 6 pm MT Thursday, June 25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-on-saving-rices-whale-6-pm-mt-thursday-june-25/) - The Gulf of Mexico is home to one of the rarest whales on Earth: the Rice’s whale. Found nowhere else in the world, this remarkable species is down to fewer than 100 individuals, with only 51 whales believed to remain in the Gulf. They need strong protections, and they need people like us to speak - [Comments due on the proposed Benchmark Timber sale draft EA (BHNF), June 22nd](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-the-proposed-benchmark-timber-sale-draft-ea-bhnf-june-22nd/) - Comments due on the proposed Benchmark Timber sale draft EA (BHNF), June 22nd Comments would be due for Benchmark Vegetation Management Project EA on Sunday, June 21st at 11:59 pm except the Forest Service has a rule in the planning regulation (36 CFR 219) that if deadlines fall on a Sunday or Holiday you - [June 12th hearing on Nebraska Game and Parks Mt Lion Hunting Season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/june-12th-hearing-on-nebraska-game-and-parks-mt-lion-hunting-season/) - June 12th hearing on Nebraska Game and Parks Mt Lion Hunting Season will be in North Platte at the Mid-plains Community College Rooms 105/107 Meeting notice - https://outdoornebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/6-12-2026-Commission-Meeting-Notice-with-ADA-notes.pdf Hearing notice: https://outdoornebraska.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/6-12-26-Public-Hearing-notice.pdf Mountain lions are on the hearing agenda for 7:15 MT. CHANGES In some hunting units — Pine Ridge & Wild Cat Hills -- the - [SD Board of Minerals and Environment June 18th Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-board-of-minerals-and-environment-june-18th-meeting/) - The board packet and instructions for joining the meeting are available on the South Dakota Boards and Commissions portal at https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67 AGENDA Board of Minerals and Environment - Teams/Telephone Conference Meeting DANR Large Conference Room 523 East Capitol Avenue Pierre, SD AGENDA June 18, 2026 10:00 a.m. Central Time Call to order and roll - [Public Hearing about an application to explore underground for uranium near Craven Canyon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-hearing-about-an-application-to-explore-underground-for-uranium-near-craven-canyon/) - The public hearing about an application to explore underground for uranium in the Black Hills has been rescheduled to May 18 through May 22, 2026. The hearing will take place in Hot Springs at the Mueller Civic Center. It had previously been scheduled for this week (April 13th-17th) but was postponed. Details are posted here https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67 - [Greenway Day Events, Rapid City, June 11th-14th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/greenway-day-events-rapid-city-june-13-15th/) - Greenway Day Events, Rapid City, June 12-14th, The Journey & Founder's Park Go to Rapid City Parks web and Facebook pages for more information - Visit www.FriendsOfRCparks.com Thursday night - Teddy Roosevelt Event at the Journey, Friday June 13th is the kick off with a race at Founder's Park. Saturday June 14, Family Friendly activities, - [Written comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission June meeting  , Sunday 6/7/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-for-the-sdgfp-commission-june-meeting-sunday-6-7-26/) - Written comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission June meeting is >>submit before midnight Central Time on Sunday 6/7/26 - Please submit at portal - https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ SDGFP Commission June Meeting 6/11-6/12, 2026, Madison Date and Time: June 11, 2026, from 1-5 pm CST and June 12, 2026, from 8 am-12 pm CST Meeting Location: Heartland Energy, - [SDGFP Commission June Hybrid Meeting 6/11-6/12, 2026, Madison & Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-commission-june-hybrid-meeting-6-11-6-12-2026-madison-zoom/) - SDGFP Commission June Meeting 6/11-6/12, 2026, Madison Date and Time: June 11, 2026, from 1-5 pm CST and June 12, 2026, from 8 am-12 pm CST Meeting Location: Heartland Energy, 423 SE 12th Street, Madison, SD 57042 Agenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/Commission_Agenda_Draft_-_June_11___12_Public.pdf This meeting will have an information item on the "Youth Trapping Recruitment Program and Coyote Bounty - [Benchmark Vegetation Management Project, Black Hills National Forest.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/benchmark-vegetation-management-project-black-hills-national-forest-comment-deadline-unknown/) - The comment period on the Benchmark Vegetation Management Project is - May 22nd- June 21st. FS sent out this note on MAY 21ST - " announcing the initiation of the public comment period for the Benchmark Vegetation Management Project. The comment period will open May 22, 2026, and comments will be accepted for 30 days. - [June 2 deadline to comment on protecting North Atlantic Right Whale from strikes by ships](https://phas-wsd.org/event/june-2-deadline-to-comment-on-protecting-north-atlantic-right-whale-from-strikes-by-ships/) - Please add a public comment before the June 2 deadline in support of continued implementation and enforcement of the North Atlantic Right Whale Vessel Speed Rule. Your voice is needed to oppose weakening one of the most important federal safeguards protecting critically endangered North Atlantic right whales from lethal vessel strikes! The Trump administration plans - [SD DOT meeting on "Highway 85 project" - Road work from Cheyenne Crossing to Wyoming](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-dot-meeting-on-highway-85-project-road-work-from-cheyenne-crossing-to-wyoming/) - SD DOT meeting on "Highway 85 project" near Spearfish/Lead Link to learn about the project: https://dot.sd.gov/ushighway85towy Public Meeting at, Deadwood History 150 Sherman St. Deadwood SD 57732 on 4 June 2026 at 5:30 to 7:00 PM Some folks are concerned about impacts to scenic beauty due to changes to road template. I think - they - [Endangered Species Chalk Art Event Contest May 1st- May 20th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-chalk-art-event-contest-may-1st-may-17th/) - Endangered Species Chalk Art Event Contest May 1st- May 20th (The Endangered Species Coalition extended deadline from 17th to 20th) Visit the Endangered Species Coalition's web page to learn about it - https://www.endangered.org/endangered-species-chalk-art-event/ Endangered Species Chalk Art Events There is a nationwide competition that the Endangered Species Coalition sponsors every year - . There are - [Endangered Species Day Celebration by Zoom, May 15th, 2026, 6-9 pm MT](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-is-the-third-friday-in-may/) - Endangered Species Day is the third Friday in May. Congress designated the day twenty years ago, in 2006.Since 2006, in western SD, we have had a multi-group sponsored Endangered Species Day event, except for the first year of Covid epidemic. This year's event is conducted by Zoom. Here is link to the pre-recorded video of - ["Protect the Foothills", evening meeting on mining in Piedmont 5/18/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/protect-the-foothills-evening-meeting-on-mining-in-piedmont-5-18-26/) - "Protect the Foothills", evening meeting on mining in Piedmont, Monday, 5/18/26, 6;30 pm, Elk Creek Resort, 8220 Elk Creek Rd. Piedmont 57769 We are not sure who is organizing it - except we are told it is: "the group fighting the mine in Piedmont".. We are not sure how long meeting will run - [COMMENT DEADLINE DEWEY-BURDOCK URANIUM PROJECT - SEND TO BLM](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-dewey-burdock-uranium-project-send-to-blm/) - COMMENT DEADLINE DEWEY-BURDOCK URANIUM PROJECT - SEND TO BLM YOUR PUBLIC COMMENT NEEDED BY Thursday, MAY 14th There is a new opportunity for you to do something to oppose plans to mine radioactive uranium in Custer and Fall River Counties. Public comments on part of the proposed Dewey-Burdock mine are due to the U.S. - ["For Birds" musical event at Journey Museum on eve of May 31st](https://phas-wsd.org/event/for-birds-musical-event-at-journey-museum-on-eve-of-march-31st/) - "For the Birds" musical event at Journey Museum on eve of May 31st in Rapid City Doors open at 6:00 for social and time to view the Avis Marvelous exhibit. Concert starts at 7:00 - 8:30. Black Hills Raptor Center. will have some birds there as well. Black Hills Citizen’s Climate Lobby (BHCCL) arranged for - [Data Center Development in Rapid City - Public panel conversation](https://phas-wsd.org/event/data-center-development-in-rapid-city-public-panel-conversation/) - Data Center Development in Rapid City Wednesday, May 13·6:30 – 8:00pm Minneluzahan Senior Citizen, 315 N 4th St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA notes Hosted by Dakota Rural Action (DRA). Public panel conversation of the impacts of Data Centers on Rapid City. Proposals, potential impacts, and how projects are evaluated. What Does Data Center Development - [6/5/26 Deadline for comments to Forest Service on rules governing administrative site leasing](https://phas-wsd.org/event/6-5-26-deadline-for-comments-to-forest-service-on-rules-governing-administrative-site-leasing/) - 6/5/26 is the deadline for comment on rules governing administrative site leasing by Forest Service The U.S. Forest Service has proposed a new rule regarding "Administrative Site Leases" (RIN 0503-AA39), published on May 6, 2026, with a public comment period closing on June 5, 2026. Quote from FS: "The United States Department of Agriculture (Department), - [Bird Bash at Bear Butte State Park](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bird-bash-at-bear-butte-state-park/) - Bird Bash at Bear Butte State Park, Sturgis, SD May 16th, 2026 8 am-1 pm Celebrate South Dakota's migratory birds together. All ages and experience levels are welcome. Follow the signs and meet up for a fun filled day! Activities: Scavanger hunt, Bird banding bracelets, Activities for kids, Bird Banding demos, Bird Ambassadors!, Bird Bingo, - [Spearfish Annual Native Plant Sale and Educational Program](https://phas-wsd.org/event/spearfish-annual-native-plant-sale-and-educational-program/) - 2026 Annual Native Plant Sale and Educational Program in Spearfish, SD, hosted by Beautify Spearfish and the SDSU Native Plant Initiative, is scheduled for Saturday, June 6, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm at The Snapper's Club (416 S Canyon Street). This event features native plants, educational speakers, and supports Bee City USA certification efforts. - [Plant Share 2026, Master Gardner, Rapid City May, 16th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/plant-share-2026-master-gardner-rapid-city-may-16th/) - ANNUAL PLANT SHARESATURDAY - MAY 16, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. Sponsored by Pennington County Master Gardeners WALTER TAYLOR BUILDING (4-H BUILDING) CENTRAL STATES FAIRGROUND… Walter Taylor Building - Central States Fairground Pennington County Master Gardeners Page Bring potted, labeled plants) to share and receive a coupon for 4 plants to take home. Participants will be - [Annual West River Migration Count (WRMC) - May 8-11, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/annual-west-river-migration-count-wrmc-may-8-11-2026/) - West River Migration Count Dates The annual West River Migration Count (WRMC) dates are May 8-11, 2026 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 - [Black Hills Nature Shop Grand Opening May 14-16th, Custer, SD, - associated events](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-nature-shop-grand-opening-may-14-16th-custer-sd-associated-events/) - Black Hills Nature Shop Grand Opening & associated events - May 14-16th, Custer, SD, The new Black Hills Nature Shop in Black Hills Parks and Forests Association's Custer headquarters (833 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD 57730) opens this Thursday-Satureday , and BHP&FA is marking the occasion with three days of programs: a black-footed ferret talk, - [Dewey-Burdock Comment Jam 5/9/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/dewey-burdock-comment-jam/) - Come learn about the proposed toxic Dewey-Burdock uranium mine before comments are due to the BLM May 14th! You'll also learn about the history of mining and efforts to stop toxic mining in the Black Hills and have plenty of time to ask questions and work on your comments. Snack provided. - [May 1st Deadline to comment of proposed waste water discharge to French Creek by Custer City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-1st-deadline-to-comment-of-proposed-waste-water-discharge-to-french-creek-by-custer-city/) - Please provide comments to South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources in opposition to City of Custer South Dakota DRAFT Surface Water Discharge (SWD) Permit No. SD0023281 Public Notice: https://danr.sd.gov/officeofwater/surfacewaterquality/pn/CusterPNDraft.pdf ================================================= Comments may be mailed to: South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources Water Quality Program Joe Foss Building 523 East - [Hearing on Injunction Request for mine exploration near Pe Sla', Rapid City 5/4/26, 3 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/hearing-on-injunction-request-for-mine-exploration-near-pe-sla-rapid-city-5-4-26/) - There is a hearing on Temporary Restraining Order for mine exploration near Pe Sla', in federal court in Rapid City 5/4/26. Check the Black Hills Clean Water Alliance . Below is an alert from BHCWA: ATTEND THE HEARING TO GET AN INJUNCTION FROM THE FEDERAL COURT TO STOP THE ILLEGAL DRILLING ON MONDAY, MAY - [SD Water Management Board's May meeting 5/7/26 or 5/6/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-boards-may-meeting-5-7-26/) - SD Water Management Board's May meeting is either 5/6/26 or 5/7/26, (8:00 or 8:30 AM - 2:30 PM) A meeting is scheduled for the Water Management Board on 5/6/26 or 5/7/2026 8:00 or 8:30 AM. Please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal to learn more about past and upcoming meetings! We have seen conflicting - [May GFP Commission, Custer & Zoom May 7-8, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-gfp-commission-custer-zoom-may-7-8-2026/) - May GFP Commission, Custer & Zoom on May 7-8, 2026 Draft Agenda (Agendas are not final till 72 hours before the meeting) - https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/DRAFT_Commission_Agenda_-_May_7-8_Public_Copy.pdf At Custer State Park (CSP) - at Event Barn at CSP. This is off of Highway 16, please look up on a map or call CSP for directions Date and Time: - [Protecting South Dakota’s Wildlife: Bounties, Predator Control, Killing Contests](https://phas-wsd.org/event/protecting-south-dakotas-wildlife-bounties-predator-control-killing-contests/) - Join Prairie Hills Audubon Society, Project Coyote, and Humane World for Animals for this free, educational webinar on Wednesday, April 29 at 6:00 pm MT/7:00 pm CT: Protecting South Dakota’s Wildlife: How to promote coexistence with wildlife and help end the cruel bounties, killing contests, and predator control policies that target the state’s coyotes and other - [Rapid Creek Clean Up event - Second Saturday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-creek-clean-up-event-second-saturday/) - Every second Saturday there is a Rapid Creek Clean up event, normally at about 10 am or so. The will be an clean up event - & it will be organized from the parking lot behind Little Ceaesars Pizza, off of West Main St. at the time of 10:45 am on May 9th, . It - [Clean up Rapid Creek event - food, bear and Creek clean up, May 16th,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-event-food-bear-and-creek-clean-up/) - On May 16th will be a grander Creek Clean up event than normal. There will be a breakfast and/or "Trout not Trash" Beer release at 9 am , Creek Clean Up from 10 am and then beer drinking event again from 12:30 pm on. (We think) We are not sure of the locations or end-time - [IdeaWild Annual Benefit Auction at the Journey Museum](https://phas-wsd.org/event/ideawild-event-at-the-journey-museum-annual-benefit-auction/) - IdeaWild Auction, The Journey Museum on May 2nd, 2026! Saturday, May 2nd from 5:00-8:30 PM Find the RSVP form here - https://ideawild.org/events/ IdeaWild looks forward to seeing you at The Journey Museum on May 2nd! Museum at 222 New York St, Rapid City, SD. - [Webinar on how future climate may reshape grassland bird habitat](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-on-how-future-climate-may-reshape-grassland-bird-habitat/) - Mapping tomorrow’s grasslands: How future climate may reshape grassland bird habitat across the western Great Plains Thursday 4/30/26… 12 pm MDT Great Plains Conservation Network, sponsored webinar. Adrian Monre speaking Grassland bird populations declined steeply as native grasslands have been lost and degraded. Future shifts in temperature and precipitation across the Great Plains are expected - [Field trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge May 2nd](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-to-la-creek-national-wildlife-refuge-may-2nd/) - La Creek National Wildlife Refuge Fieldtrip May 2nd Saturday, May 2nd, 2026 Rapid City - car pool meets & organizes at 7:30 a.m. - Eastside Family Fare (Family Thrift) parking lot. We also meet again at 11:00 a.m. at the LaCreek NWR refuge headquarters (some people come from other towns or camp-out). We believe it is - [Open House at the Great Plains Botanic Garden. South of Hermosa, June 13 & 14, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/open-house-at-the-great-plains-botanic-garden-south-of-hermosa-june-13-14-2026/) - June 12-13 • Open House - Log Cabin Visitor Center at the Great Plains Botanic Garden, Friday & Saturday - June 12 & 13, at 9:am-4:pm Open House at the Great Plains Botanic Garden. Event will be cancelled in case of serious rain making our grounds muddy. We are a short distance east - [National Audubon Society's Climate Watch Season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-audubon-societys-climate-watch-season/) - National Audubon Society's (NAS) Climate Watch Season Help the NAS document effects of climate change on birds, by doing birding using a specific protocol, in a set of fixed locations, on a day between May 15th- and June 15th. Visit NAS web page for details - https://www.audubon.org/community-science/climate-watch - [Clean Up Rapid Creek Volunteer Day](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-volunteer-day/) - Clean Up Rapid Creek Volunteer Day is the second Saturday of the month at 10 am. Contact Jeff Anderson for details and this Saturday's location.- jandy5750@gmail.com - [Clean up Rapid Creek (second Sat of the month)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-second-sat-of-the-month/) - Clean Up Rapid Creek Meet at 10 am for Rapid Creek Clean up - volunteer pick up trash along the creek. Saturday, April 11·......10:00am – 12:00pm East St. Louis Street, Near Breadroot Natural Foods Co-op, 100 East Blvd N, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA notes Collect trash from the shore and creek bed. Trash - [Regional Meeting of the Black Hills Clean Water Alliance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/regional-meeting-of-the-black-hills-clean-water-alliance/) - Regional Meeting of the Black Hills Clean Water Alliance Saturday, April 18· 10:00am – 4:00pm, Such provide Pure Coffee Hub LLC, 324 St Joseph St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA, in the back room Annual gathering of partners to foster collaboration, share best practices, and address local challenges. BHCWA will be hosting a Regional Meeting - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission March Hybrid Meeting, in Pierre SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-march-hybrid-meeting-in-pierre-sd/) - SDGFP Commission March 5-6, 2026 in Pierre and Zoom -here is the agenda - https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_-_March_5-6_Public.pdf It has the Zoom links for attending the hybrid meeting. Agendas can change up to 24 hours before meetings, I think, unless the statute about that has changed. You can testify (remotely or in person) at about 2 pm CT - [Prairie Bird Bingo](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-bird-bingo/) - The annual Prairie Bird Bingo, which is now in its third year. Participation is easy and fun: for every checklist submitted in the Northern Great Plains from April 15 – June 30, add the phrase “Prairie Bird Bingo” in the comments and be eligible for some fun bird-related prizes. ABC has created a Bingo Card - [Hot Springs Hearing on CNEC Application POSTPONED to explore for uranium near Craven Canyon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/hot-springs-hearing-on-cnec-application-to-explore-for-uranium-near-craven-canyon/) - THIS HEARING WAS POSTPONED TILL LATE MAY The public hearing about an application to explore underground for uranium in the Black Hills has been rescheduled to May 18 through May 22. The hearing will take place in Hot Springs at the Mueller Civic Center. It had previously been scheduled for this week (13th-17th) but was postponed. I - [Black Hills Raptor Center  2026 Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-raptor-center-2026-spaghetti-dinner-silent-auction/) - Black Hills Raptor Center (BHRC) BHRC 2026 Spaghetti Dinner & Silent Auction April 18, 2026 @ 4:30PM — 7:30PM Mountain Time (US & Canada) Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help: 520 Cathedral Dr Rapid City, SD 57701 Fly in for a family night of great food and raptors! A delightful evening supporting the raptors - [Sunday night is deadline to submit comments to SDGFP Commission for May 7th meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sunday-night-is-deadline-to-submit-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-may-7th-meeting/) - Sunday night at midnight MT (5/3) is the deadline to submit written comments to SDGFP Commission for their May 7th meeting. Agendas have to be published 72 hours before the meeting. which would be on Monday, but sometimes they publish agendas on Friday. That agenda will be posted to their "current meeting" web page - [Bear Butte Forum, 2026, Sturgis](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bear-butte-forum-2026-sturgis/) - Bear Butte Forum, 2026, Sturgis, Saturday the 26th of April Annual event that is sponsored by SDGFP for GFP to talk about management of Bear Butte State Park with Native Americans, but everyone is welcome. 8;30-12:00 at Sturgis Community Center on 1401 Lazelle Street. Sturgis, SD 57785 . For questions call Bear Butte State Park. - [Networking meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program (NPBP) & Coyote Killing bounties](https://phas-wsd.org/event/networking-meeting-on-the-nest-predator-bounty-program-npbp-coyote-killing-bounties/) - PHAS has scheduled the next networking meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program (NPBP) - Thursday 4/2/26 5:30 pm MT. This meeting is open to individuals and groups who oppose SD GFP's bounties on meso-predators Thursday night April 2nd from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm MT as the date. This is the day before the - ["God Squad" meeting to consider exemption from ESA for fossil fuel projects in Caribbean - Deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/god-squad-meeting-to-consider-exemption-from-esa-for-fossil-fuel-projects-in-caribbean-deadline/) - "God Squad" meeting to consider exemption from ESA for fossil fuel projects in Caribbean - Comment Deadline "As part of President Trump’s push to hand more favors to the oil and gas industry, the administration is preparing to convene the so-called "God Squad", a rarely-convened group with the power to - [Deadline to send comments on the Lesser Prairie Chicken Status review to USFWS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-comments-on-the-lesser-prairie-chicken-status-review-to-usfws/) - March 30th is the deadline to send comments in to the USFWS on the new status review for the Lesser Prairie Chicken Lesser Prairie Chicken's status review Endangered and Threatened Wildlife and Plants; Status Review for the Lesser Prairie-Chicken - Comments due March 30th Federal Register Notice: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2026/02/26/2026-03882/endangered-and-threatened-wildlife-and-plants-status-review-for-the-lesser-prairie-chicken SUMMARY - Quotes from the USFWS: "In - [Deadline Primary Candidate nominating petitions March 31st, 2026, 5 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-primary-candidate-nominating-petitions-march-31st-2026-5-pm/) - It is very difficult to get good environmental legislation past the SD legislature. We need more environmentalists in the legislature and on certain committees. You all may know about your county and what happens there and whether new officials are needed.. Last day for Primary Election nominating petitions to be filed or postmarked by registered - [NO KINGS protests, nationwide & Rapid City, Spearfish, Sturgis, White River & 7 other east River Cities](https://phas-wsd.org/event/no-kings-protests-nationwide-rapid-city-spearfish-sturgis-white-river/) - NO KINGS protests, nationwide - See map at https://www.nokings.org/, sometimes you need to register (RSVP) for a protest near you to receive location details, for others, if you click on the City, the protest time & location becomes published on the map. The protests have gained significant momentum, with an estimated 5 million people taking part - [World [International] Migratory Bird Day is the second Saturday in May](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-international-migratory-bird-day-is-the-second-saturday-in-may/) - World [International] Migratory Bird Day is the second Saturday in May. World Migratory Bird Day is officially celebrated on the second Saturday of May in Canada and the US, and the second Saturday of October in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. In 2026, WMBD conservation theme highlights the importance of community science - [Deadline to file nominating petitions for some municipal and school board elections](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-file-nominating-petitions-for-some-municipal-and-school-board-elections/) - The deadline to file nominating petitions for some municipal and school board elections is March 24th, 2026. The legislature changed the municipal and school board election date options to mandate they will occur on either the primary day or the fall general election day. If your municipality or school board chose the primary day, the - [Webinar on Coyotes by Project Coyote](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-on-coyotes-by-project-coyote/) - Celebrate #CoyoteAwarenessWeek with Project Coyote! Join their free webinar, "Wild Kinship: A Look Into Coyote Lives Through Two Lenses" Coyotes are among the most maligned and misunderstood wildlife in North America—yet they are intelligent, devoted family members, skilled hunters, playful pups, and essential participants in healthy ecosystems. Join us during Coyote Awareness Week for a - [March 24th, PHAS Zoom members meeting on Lesser and Greater Prairie Chickens.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-24th-phas-zoom-members-meeting-on-lesser-and-greater-prairie-chickens/) - March 24th, PHAS Zoom members meeting on Lesser and Greater Prairie Chickens., 6:30 pm MT. "Home on the Range: Breeding biology of prairie-chickens" (natural history) presented by Jackie Augustine Dr. Jackie Augustine, Audubon of Kansas Executive Director, will discuss the biology of Greater and Lesser Prairie-Chickens, a species that she has been studying for over 20 - [SD Ornithologist Union Spring Meeting - 4/15/26-4/17/26, Pierre, SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-union-spring-meeting-4-15-26-4-17-26-pierre-sd/) - SD Ornithologist Union Spring Meeting - 4/15/26-4/17/26, Pierre, SD The 2026 SDOU Spring Meeting is scheduled for May 15–17, 2026, in Pierre, SD. Venue: Pierre Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center Address: 920 West Sioux, Pierre, SD 57501 Registration: Due by May 8, 2026 SDOU spring meeting schedule -https://sdou.org/SDOU/NextMeeting.aspx - [World Water Day 2026, Rapid City,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-2026-rapid-city/) - Saturday, March 28, for a day of Celebrating our precious relative and natural resource, WATER! https://bhcleanwateralliance.org/wwd26/ This year, Black Hills Clean Water Alliance will celebrate World Water Day and hold their annual Silent Auction at the Hay Camp Brewing Co., 601 Kansas City St, Rapid City, from 1-4 PM. The Silent Auction will begin at - [Sustainability Committee Meeting, March 23rd eve](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sustainability-committee-meeting-march-23rd-eve/) - Sustainability Committee Meeting Monday, March 23· , at 5:30 – 7:00 pm In Rapid CIty, City Hall (300 6th Street), Circle of Friends Community Room on 2nd floor with Zoom option. Rapid City Sustainability Committee (RCSC) meetings are open to the public and held on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of every month at 5:30 - [Rapid Creek Cleanup Saturday, March 14·10:00am – 12:00pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-creek-cleanup-saturday-march-14·1000am-1200pm/) - Rapid Creek Cleanup Saturday, March 14·10:00am – 12:00pm Meet at Black Hills Farmers Market, 245 E Omaha St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA notes: Bring yourself and gloves and trash bags will be provided for a cleanup of Rapid Creek. If you have hip waders, bring them and collect trash from the creek waters. Land - [Black Hills Flyfisher's Banquet Auction and Raffle Saturday, March 21·](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-flyfishers-banquet-auction-and-raffle-saturday-march-21·/) - Black Hills Flyfisher's Banquet Auction and Raffle Saturday, March 21· 5:00 – 10:00 pm MT at Hotel Alex Johnson Rapid City, Curio Collection by Hilton, 523 6th St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA Doors open at 5:00 PM. Admission $50.00. Silent and Live Auctions. All proceeds support the Black Hills Stream Habitat Health. For more - [Clean up at Sheep Mountain Table](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-at-sheep-mountain-table/) - Clean up at Sheep Mountain Table Sunday, March 8, at ·10:00am – 2:00pm Sheep Mountain Table, Bombing Range road south of Scenic, SD notes Google Maps Link to meeting spot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/kRF16LQedXqvm3oT6 Details: The Sheep Mountain Table area of Badlands National Park has recently been burned as part of a prescribed fire operation. The fire in - [Nobeck Society meeting on - Beetles and Forest Health](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nobeck-society-meeting-on-beetles-and-forest-health/) - Nobeck Society meeting on - Beetles and Forest Health, by Dr. John Ball, Thursday March 12th at 5:30-8:pm at SDGFP's Outdoor Campus West, in Rapid Cith, 4130 Adventure 'Trail. - [Board of Minerals and Environment meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-and-environment-meeting-2/) - Board of Minerals and Environment meeting 10 am in room 414 at the State Capitol. The BME hearing over uranium mine exploration above Craven Canyon, is likely to be April 14-16th, but an agenda item is a request to change that location to local area (Hot Springs) versus Pierre, SD. Start Date/Time: 03/18/2026 10:00 - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society March Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-march-board-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society March Board meeting will be the evening of Wednesday March 11, 2026 by Zoom. PHAS board meetings are open to all members (and to non-members by invitation). We may go into executive session briefly, at end of the meeting, to discuss litigation. This meeting will likely start at 6:00 pm or - [Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Conference – March 13](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-area-botany-ecology-conference-march-13/) - Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Conference – March 13. more details coming in March We don't know time of day, but guessed at 8 to 5. There sometimes is a post event social hour at a different location. The 2026 Black Hills Area Botany and Ecology Workshop (BHABEW) is coming up on Friday, March 13, - [SD GFP April 9th-10th, 2026 Commission Meeting, Pierre & Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-april-9th-10th-2026-commission-meeting-pierre-zoom/) - SD GFP April 9th-10th, 2026 Commission Meeting, Pierre & Zoom - [SD GFP April 9th-10th, 2026 Commission Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-april-9th-10th-2026-commission-meeting/) - SD GFP April 9th-10th, 2026 Commission Hybrid Meeting Pierre, SD & Zoom More information closer to the date - [Comment deadline SDGFP Wildlife Damage Management (WDM) & Giant Canada Goose Action Plans.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-sdgfp-wildlife-damage-management-wdm-action-plan/) - Below are the deadlines for staff to receive and study your comments as they finalize the document. However all action plans are approved by the SDGFP Commission. The staff wanted comments by 2/20/26, The Commission wants comments by March 1st midnight CT. The Commission meets on March 5th-6th, 2026, You can submit written comments for - [SDGFP Commission March meeting -Written Comment deadline for March 5-6th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-commission-march-meeting-written-comment-deadline-for-march-5-6th/) - SDGFP Commission March meeting -Written Comment deadline for March 5-6th When closer to the date of March 5-6th, visit this link to get the agenda and zoom links: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ . Agenda was published on the Friday, 6 days before the meeting. The written comment deadline is just before midnight Central Time on Sunday night March - [Deadline to Comment to FS on Uranium Exploration near Craven Canyon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-to-fs-on-uranium-exploration-near-craven-canyon/) - A Canadian company has applied for a second time to explore for radioactive uranium at Craven Canyon in the southern Black Hills. This project, called the October Jinx Project, is on federal land. It is part of the larger Chord Project. The company is named Clean Nuclear Energy Corporation (CNEC), which is a subsidiary of - [PHAS working meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program - by Zoom Feb 26th eve](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-working-meeting-on-the-nest-predator-bounty-program-by-zoom-feb-26th-eve/) - PHAS working meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program (NPBP) - by Zoom Feb 26th eve at 6:30pm MT PHAS will host a discussion meeting, to review the Legislative attempt to kill the NPBP in 2026, the suggestions of the Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, upcoming meeting of the SDGFP Commission meeting on 3/5-6/26 - [BHs Group of Sierra Club monthly meeting on importance of fire in BHs](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhs-group-of-sierra-club-monthly-meeting-on-importance-of-fire-in-bhs/) - The Black Hills Group of the Sierra Club will sponsor an informational program on Monday, March 2nd. at 7:00 p.m. at the Outdoor Campus - West in Rapid City. Chris Stover, who recently retired from a career with the U.S. Forest Service, will lead a discussion on the topic: "Why is Fire important to the Black Hills?" The program is free - [Board of Water and Natural Resources, 2.26.2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-water-and-natural-resources-2-26-2026/) - 02/26/2026 | Board of Water and Natural Resources Start Date/Time: 02/26/2026 01:30 PM End Date/Time: 02/26/2026 05:00 PM Time Zone: Central Standard Time Description: February Meeting Location: In-Person or On-lLine Documents: Description File Type Upload Date Board Packet Document 2/20/2026 9:27:40 AM Meeting Agenda Agenda 2/20/2026 9:27:56 AM Online Attendance Instructions Document 2/20/2026 9:28:13 AM - [Water Management Board Meeting 3/4/2026 9:30:00 AM.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-board-meeting-3-4-2026-93000-am/) - Water Management Board Meeting 3/4/2026 9:30:00 AM. For more info: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 Start Date/Time: 03/04/2026 09:30 AM End Date/Time: 03/04/2026 02:00 PM Time Zone: Central Standard Time Description: Remote Location: Matthews Training Center - 523 E Capitol Ave, Pierre SD Documents: Description File Type Upload Date Agenda Agenda 2/24/2026 9:55:05 AM Board Packet Document - [Western SD Environmental and Hydrology Conference 4/16/2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/western-sd-environmental-and-hydrology-conference-4-16-2026/) - Registration is now open for the 2026 Western South Dakota Environmental and Hydrology Conference held April 16, 2026, at the Monument in Rapid City. A preliminary program is posted on the conference registration website and will be updated as needed, and a copy is also attached to this email. REGISTER HERE! Registration fees are $85 for - [SD Grassland Summit - SD Grasslands Initiative March 3rd-4th,Mitchell](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-grassland-summit-sd-grasslands-initiative-march-3rd-4thmitchell/) - SD Grassland Summit - SD Grasslands Initiative March 3rd-4th, Registration cost is $75, payment due Feb 24th, 2026. It is at the Highland Center, in Mitchell SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Tuesday, March 3 Time Session Details 8:00 – 9:15 Registration 9:30 – 10:25 Welcome & Looking Back at Two Years of Impact The opening session will - [Earth Day Expo, 2026, Rapid City, Saturday 4/25/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-day-expo-2026-rapid-city-saturday-4-25-26/) - Earth Day Expo, Saturday 4/25/26, 10 am - 3 pm, Rapid City At Western Dakota Technical College, 800 Mickelson Dr., Rapid City Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/events/800-mickelson-dr-rapid-city-sd-57703-4018-united-states/earth-day-expo-2026/871883468974631/ What to expect at the 2026 Earth Day Expo? - Visit dozens of vendor booths - Recycle old electronics - Tour WDT's hydroponics lab - Hang out with a - [Earth Day,,Black Hills State University April 18th, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-dayblack-hills-state-university-april-18th-2026/) - Earth Day,,Black Hills State University Saturday, April 18, 2026, from 11 am- 2 pm on the Campus Green For info: Greg Strobel Outdoor Education Coordinator Black Hills State University Spearfish, South Dakota - [Deadline to comment on SDGFP Draft Elk Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sdgfp-draft-elk-plan/) - Deadline to comment on SDGFP Draft Elk Plan - midnight CT on Tuesday Feb 17th, 2026. draft Elk plan URL to download https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/ElkActionPlan_2026_JanuaryDRAFT.pdf Comments can be sent to 523 E. Capitol Ave., Pierre, S.D. 57501, or submitted at gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions." - [Norbeck Society meeting on mushrooms, Rapid City & Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-meeting-on-mushrooms-rapid-city-zoom/) - February 19, 5:30 at the SDGF&P Outdoor Campus West, Alan Carner, Black Hills Mushrooms LLC will be Norbeck Society's guest presenter: Mushroom Foraging in the Black Hills: Seasonal Macrofungi, Key Edible Species, Rare Fungi & Conservation Notes. Meet and Greet from 5:30 to 6 pm, Speech at 6 pm. Come in person to enjoy the company or watch from home - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel Feb 14th, 1:30-4:00](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel-feb-14th-130-400/) - Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel Feb 14th, 1:30-4:00 pm, Piedmont Valley American Legion Post 311, 101 Pine St. Piedmont, Legislators from District 33 and 29 are invited. Prairie Hills Audubon Society and the American Legion Post 311, are joint sponsors of this event. - [Rapid Creek weekend clean up](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-creek-weekend-clean-up/) - An opportunity to get out into nature and bond with other nature lovers, on Valentines Day. The Izaak Walton League of American, Rapid City Chapter will be testing for nitrates and salt. Clean Up Rapid Creek is this Saturday 2/14/2026 at 10:00 AM. Steele Avenue Park, 200 E Main Street Rapid City. The weather is - [National Audubon Society's annual photo contest Jan 15-March 4th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-audubon-societys-annual-photo-contest-jan-15-march-4th/) - National Audubon Society's annual photo contest - the time period to submit entries is Jan 15-March 4th - Last chance to submit - submit by noon EST. For more details visit the National Audubon Society web page. https://www.audubon.org/press-room/2026-audubon-photography-awards-open-entries See archives to look at previous years winners and honorable mentions - if you keep selecting "show - [National Audubon Society's Climate Watch Winter Season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-audubon-societys-climate-watch-winter-season/) - National Audubon Society's Climate Watch Winter Season- Help collect data to show how birds are responding to 'Climate Change. You need to adopt a 10 mile by 10 mile square and bird within it using a certain protocol between Jan 15th and Feb 15th. Visit the National Audubon Society's (NAS) Climate Watch web page for - [Great Back Yard Bird Count 2/13/26-2/16/26](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-back-yard-bird-count/) - February 13-16, 2026 "Great Back Yard Bird Count" Visit web site of "Great Back Yard Bird Count" for details - https://www.birdcount.org/. Birders bird at home or local place during a time period that occurs within the 4 days and put birding data up on one of several web sites. Here is a quote from - [](https://phas-wsd.org/event/21561/) - The draft Elk Management Action Plan can be found online here. Individuals may provide suggestions and comments to be considered in the Elk Management Action Plan by February 17. Written comments must include your full name and city of residence. Comments can be sent to 523 E. Capitol Ave., Pierre, S.D. 57501, or submitted here. If you - [2/1/26 deadline to comment on general air quality permit for concrete plants across SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2-1-26-deadline-to-comment-on-general-air-quality-permit-for-concrete-plants-across-sd/) - Concrete Plant General Permit D The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is proposing to issue a general air quality permit for concrete plants throughout the State of South Dakota. Statewide 02/01/2026. Public Notice Draft permit Application Review Concrete Plant General Permit A The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources - [Pennington County Commission reading of amendments to Alternative Energy Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-commission-continues-first-reading-of-amendments-to-alternative-energy-ordinance/) - On Tuesday November 4th the Pennington County Commission continued the first reading of amendments to Alternative Energy Ordinance to December 16th, 2025. Notes on Pennington County Alternative energy ordinance (amendments), This is up for hearing on at Commission meeting on Tuesday 16th of Dec. It was continued till Jan 20th, 2026 and got sent back - [Deadline for Written comments for Pennington County review of draft revision Alternative Energy Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-for-pennington-county-review-of-draft-revision-alternative-energy-ordinance/) - Deadline for Written comments for Pennington County review of draft revision Alternative Energy Ordinance is 4 pm on Wednesday... Sometimes they extend these deadlines to Friday at 2 pm (or they do not). The hearing is on Tuesday the 20th, Go to our event calendar at that date for more information.. Volunteers from Dakota Rural - [Lecture - Native America Story Teller on Beaver, Journey Museum](https://phas-wsd.org/event/lecture-native-america-story-teller-on-beaver-journey-museum/) - Lecture - Native America Story Teller on Beaver, Journey Museum, Wednesday, 7 pm, 1/14/26 - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel-2/) - ANNOUNCING PIEDMONT (FOOTHILLS AREA) LEGISLATIVE CRACKER BARRELS We have two afternoon meeting dates chosen this year for the 2026 Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrels. . Due to request at the 2025 Cracker Barrel for a pre-legislative Cracker Barrel and the deep concerns in our communities about the proposed sand/gravel mine at Piedmont, we decided - [SD Game Fish & Parks Hybrid Commission Meeting January 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-hybrid-commission-meeting-january-2026/) - SD Game Fish & Parks Hybrid Commission Meeting January 2026, January 8-9 in Pierre and also by Zoom and teleconference. Visit this web page for agenda and packet of materials given to the Commission when close to the meeting date - https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Meetings normally start on Thursday at 1 pm in the time zone of the - [Rapid City Special Election - VOTE to determine fate of Libertyland TIF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-special-election-vote-to-determine-fate-of-libertyland-tif/) - Vote on Destination Tax Increment Financing (TIF) District, also known as Libertyland. 1/20/26 Rapid City residents please remember to vote in this special election. We are concerned about allowing tax breaks and the use of taxpayer money for this private enterprise, and the environmental impacts (energy consumption, water), not to mention the patriotic hubris. https://www.kotatv.com/2025/10/07/special-election-determine-libertylands-fate-will-be-held-january-20/ - [Rapid Creek Clean Up SATURDAY, Jan. 10th, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-creek-clean-up-saturday-jan-10th-2026/) - Rapid Creek Clean Up SATURDAY, Jan. 10th, 2026 The Rapid Creek Clean Up is this Saturday 01/10/2026. 10:00 AM at Founders Park (Park off of Omaha St). Meet near the fish. We will be testing the creek for salt and nitrates, and policing trash. Hope to see some of you there. For more info: Jeffrey - [WOTUS rule change proposal (EPA/Army Corps) — comment period ends 01/05/2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wotus-rule-change-proposal-epa-army-corps-comment-period-ends-01-05-2026/) - WOTUS / CLEAN WATER ACT – COMMENTS DUE JANUARY 5, 2026 Issue: EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers have proposed a new definition of “Waters of the United States” (WOTUS) that significantly narrows which wetlands, headwater streams, prairie potholes, and ephemeral or intermittent channels are federally protected. This proposal would remove protections from millions - [SD Board of Minerals and Environment's January 2026 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-board-of-minerals-and-environments-january-2026-meeting/) - SD Board of Minerals and Environment's January 2026 meeting The public may participate in-person or via telephone by dialing 1-605-679-7263 and entering Conference ID 972399244#. The full board packet and the link for live streaming are available on the South Dakota Boards and Commissions Portal at https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67. Board of Minerals and Environment Telephone Conference Meeting - [Comment deadline on Federal rule to extend the phase-in period for compliance with the Oil and Gas Rule’s bonding requirement](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-federal-rule-to-extend-the-phase-in-period-for-compliance-with-the-oil-and-gas-rules-bonding-requirement/) - Federal Onshore Oil and Gas Statewide Bonds; Extension of Phase-In Deadline Comment deadline on Federal rule to extend the phase-in period for compliance with the Oil and Gas Rule’s bonding requirement - deadline Jan 20th, 2026 Federal Register Notice https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/12/18/2025-23228/federal-onshore-oil-and-gas-statewide-bonds-extension-of-phase-in-deadline Department of the Interior Bureau of Land Management 43 CFR Part 3100, A2407-014-004-065516, #O2509-014-004-125222, RIN - [Pennington County's continued review of draft Alternative Energy ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-countys-continued-review-of-draft-alternative-energy-ordinance/) - The Commission has taken the Alternative Energy ordinance back for revisions, and a first reading of the updated version is scheduled for the January 20th meeting. Rick Bell at the Dec 16th, review, offered recommendations on behalf of DRA, in his role as a board member, regarding some of the problematic language in the ordinance - [Boebert's wolf de-listing bill - vote on house floor possible 12/15-19/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/markup-of-boeberts-wolf-delisting-bill-in-committee-comment-deadline/) - Rep. Boebert's wolf de-listing bill may be voted on in the House Floor this week (Dec 11-19th, 2025) Rep. Boebert’s bill, H.R. 845, would de-list gray wolves in the lower 48 states The bill undermines the Endangered Species Act by not only circumventing sound science and legislatively delisting wolves but also undermines citizen enforcement by - [Deadline to comment on Federal rules about reporting on PFAS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-federal-rules-about-reporting-on-pfas/) - Deadline to comment on Federal rules about reporting on PFAS Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Data Reporting and Recordkeeping Under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA); Revision to Regulation https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0549-0311 Docket ID: EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0549-0311 – Protect PFAS reporting requirements. Comment Period Ends:Dec 29, 2025 at 11:59 PM EST https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OPPT-2020-0549-0311 ====================== Environmental Defense Fund alert and pre-fab letter - [Christmas Bird Count Season Dec 14th, 2025-Jan 5th, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-count-season-dec-14th-2025-jan-5th-2026/) - Every year the National Audubon Society sponsors the Christmas Bird Count Season Dec 14th, 2025-Jan 5th, 2026 Right now [12/15/25] we are still editing the 126 season list of regional Christmas Bird Counts up on our web site. We have updated SD CBC information for this CBC season (12/14/25-1/5/25) and are working on updating th - [Environment and Water Gathering, Mother Butler, Rapid City 12/17-12/19](https://phas-wsd.org/event/environment-and-water-gathering/) - Environment and Water Gathering, December 17th, 18th and 19th, 12 pm-to 6 pm Mother Butler Facility, 231 Knollwood Drive, Rapid City, 57701 Purpose: to connect Environmental and Water Groups with Lakota Nation Invitational Communities. A Magpie Buffalo Organizing Event, contact Tonia Stands for more info. - [ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (ESA) ROLLBACK PACKAGE – COMMENTS DUE DECEMBER 22, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-act-esa-rollback-package-comments-due-december-22-2025/) - ENDANGERED SPECIES ACT (ESA) ROLLBACK PACKAGE - COMMENTS DUE ON DECEMBER 22, 2025 Issue: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) has issued four proposed rules to roll back Endangered Species Act protections. These proposals would:• allow economic impacts to influence listing decisions;• narrow the meaning of “foreseeable future,” limiting climate-related listings;• reduce critical habitat - [Sent comments to Congress to protect wolves from de-listing, hearing on Monday 15th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sent-comments-to-congress-to-protect-wolves-from-de-listing-hearing-on-monday-15th/) - Rep. Boebert’s bill, H.R. 845, which would delist gray wolves in the lower 48 states may be on the House floor for a vote next week (Dec 14th-21st). The Pet and Livestock Protection Act (HR 845), introduced by Representatives Lauren Boebert (CO-03) and Tom Tiffany (WI-07), is scheduled for a critical House Rules Committee hearing on Monday, December 15, - [Deadline for written comments on amendments to Pennington County Alternative Energy Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-on-amendments-to-pennington-county-alternative-energy-ordinance/) - Deadline for written comments on amendments to Pennington County Alternative Energy Ordinance is 2 pm Friday 12/12/25 Notes on Pennington County Alternative energy ordinance (amendments), This is up for hearing on at Commission meeting on Tuesday 16th of Dec. The written comment deadline was Wed 10th, but it has been extended to Friday, 12th at - [Endangered Species Act Proposed Rules -- Webinar - Call to Action Against Rules](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-act-proposed-rules-call-to-action-against-rules-webinar/) - Join the Endangered Species Coalition and partners as we come together to talk about the Trump administration's wide-reaching set of proposed rules that would severely undermine implementation of Endangered Species Act (ESA). The proposed ESA rule changes are now open for public comment until December 22, 2025. In this Zoom webinar the Coalition explain ways - [Rapid Creek Clean up Sat 12/13/2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-creek-clean-up-sat-12-13-2025/) - Rapid Creek Clean Up 12/13/2025 Saturday at 10:00 AM at Founders Park. Volunteers are going to brave the elements and haul away the human leftovers from the creek and surrounding banks. For more information - Jeffrey Anderson or Bill Young -guinnessmarsh@gmail.com - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society December Board meeting 12/10/25 by Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-december-board-meeting-12-10-25-by-zoom/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society 's December Board meeting is 12/10/25 Our board meetings are normally on the second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm MT by Zoom. Members are welcome at PHAS BoD meetings, others (non-members) by invitation. To get the Zoom codes ask Nancy at 605-787-6466, 787-2806 or e-mail phas.wsd@rapidnet.com, - [Comment on President Trump’s new offshore drilling lease plan, comment by Jan 23, 2026](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-on-president-trumps-new-offshore-drilling-lease-plan-comment-by-jan-23-2026/) - On November 20, the Department of the Interior released President Trump’s new offshore drilling lease plan, the 11th National OCS Oil and Gas Leasing Draft Proposed Program. The proposal includes as many as 34 potential offshore lease sales across 1.27 billion acres. It includes 21 areas off the coast of Alaska, seven in the Gulf of - [December 4th, Hybrid meeting of SDGFP Commission in Pierre](https://phas-wsd.org/event/december-4-5-hybrid-meeting-of-sdgfp-commission-in-pierre/) - Date and Time of Hybrid meeting: Thursday December 4, 2025, from 1-5 pm CST Meeting Location: Capitol Building, Room 414, 500 E Capitol Ave. Pierre, SD 57501 To view agenda and Commission Book (packet given to the Commission) visit https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ ====== December Agenda (this has Zoom codes) : https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_-_Dec.pdf Meeting ID: 912 6417 6710 Passcode: - [Endangered Species Act Proposed Rules Briefing by the Endangered Species Coalition](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-act-proposed-rules-briefing-by-the-endangered-species-coalition/) - Hello! Please join the Endangered Species Coalition (ESC) on Friday, 12/5/25 to learn about the Endangered Species Act proposed rules (see comment deadline 12/22/25) and get tools helpful to engage in the public comment period. ESC will have time for questions and discussion. Endangered Species Act Proposed Rules Briefing Friday, December 5 at 12:30 - [Deadline to submit comments to the SDGFP Commission for December Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission-for-december-meeting/) - Deadline to submit comments to the SDGFP Commission for their review before the December Meeting is - just before midnight CT on Sunday night. You must use the GFP public comment portal - https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ The December Commission Meeting will be held on December 4-5, 2025, starting at 1 pm CST at the Capitol Building, Room 414, - [PHAS Zoom member's meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program Wed. Nov. 19th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-zoom-members-meeting-on-the-nest-predator-bounty-program-wed-nov-19th/) - PHAS had a Zoom member's meeting on the Nest Predator Bounty Program (NPBP) on Wed. Nov. 19th. It started at 6:30 pm MT. To join PHAS membership Wednesday Zoom meeting November 19th on the Nest Predator Bounty Program visit link (this will be a repeated link for our future meetings) : https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9y RmVON3VPU0dRZz09 Meeting ID: - [Deadline for Chapters to submit grant applications to National Audubon Society](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-chapters-to-submit-grant-applications-to-national-audubon-society/) - Deadline for Chapters to submit grant applications to National Audubon Society - has been extended from Sunday Nov 23rd to Monday December 1st.. Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) is a chapter of the National Audubon Society (NAS). We share with them normally about 260 joint members and get an automatic grant award of $565 dollars - [Deadline to Comment on proposal to increase water impoundment on dam on French Creek, west of Custer](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-proposal-to-increase-water-impoundment-on-dam-on-french-creek-west-of-custer/) - Quote from DANR public notice: "Notice is given that the City of Custer, 622 Crook Street, Custer SD 57730, has filed an application for a water permit to impound an additional 22.5 acre-feet of water, in Custer West Dam, located on French Creek, to what is currently authorized by Water Right No. 298-2 & Water Permit - [Piedmont Board of Trustees Meeting, 11/18/25- Comment on pending Sand/Gravel mine](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-board-of-trustees-meeting-11-18-25-comment-on-pending-sand-gravel-mine/) - Piedmont Board of Trustees meets on Tuesday, 11/18/25 at 6:30 pm MT Piedmont City Hall, 102 Walnut St. - Opportunity to Comment on pending Sand/Gravel mine. Public will be given 3 minutes each There is a point near the start of the meeting ---- at Item #4 for public comment on pending mine and Item #13 - [Comment on EPA proposal to weaken "Clean Air for Parks Rule" 12/11/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-on-epa-proposal-to-weaken-clean-air-for-parks-rule-12-11-25/) - EPA SEEKS TO WEAKEN -"CLEAN AIR FOR PARKS" Comment Deadline: December 1, 2025 Tell EPA Not to Weaken the “Clean Air for Parks” / Regional Haze Rule EPA has released an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (ANPRM) titled:“Visibility Protection: Regional Haze State Plan Requirements Rule Revision.”This is the first step toward weakening the long-standing Regional - [Deadline to submit written comments to the SDGFP Commission for January meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission-for-january-meeting/) - Public Comment deadline for January SD Game Fish and Parks (SDGFP) Commission meeting is before midnight CT on the Sunday before - January 4, 2026 via https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ SDGFP Commission meetings are normally on the first Thursday-Friday of the month unless holidays interfere. For January 2026 - it is January 8th-9th, 2026 in Pierre. New Years - [BH Clean Water Alliance meeting and dinner on "Sacred Sites" Rapid City 5:30 pm 11/17/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bh-clean-water-alliance-meeting-and-dinner-on-sacred-sites-rapid-city-530-pm-11-17-25/) - Black Hills Clean Water Alliance dinner & meeting, with presentation on "Sacred Sites". In Rapid City at 5:30 - 7:00 pm 11/17/25 at the Minneluzahan Senior Citizen Center, 315 N. 4th St. We think the meal is free (but we are not sure) . It is suggested people bring dinner ware so as to minimize - [Protect Piedmont Valley from Sand/Gravel Mine meeting eve of 11/20/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/protect-piedmont-valley-from-sand-gravel-mine-meeting-eve-of-11-20-25/) - Here is a link to Protect Piedmont's Future Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php/?id=61582808211903 Just below are excerpts from NewsCenter 1 article found at this link: https://www.newscenter1.tv/news/local/protect-piedmonts-future-to-hold-special-q-a-meeting-on-new-proposed-limestone-mine "Protect Piedmont’s Future, a group opposing a new proposed limestone mine, will be holding an open forum Q-and-A for concerned residents. The meeting is set for 6 p.m. on Thursday, - [1st Reading of amendments to Ordinance - alternative energy, Pennington County Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/1st-reading-of-amendments-to-ordinance-alternative-energy-pennington-county-commission/) - 1st Reading of amendments to Ordinance - on alternative energy, Pennington County Commission , Meeting starts at 9 am, I don't know when Ordinance will be reviewed - it is item # 17 on the agenda, so it won't be at 9 am. . To find the Commission's agendas and minutes https://pennco.org/index.asp?SEC=06FBC01F-7BFF-4F4A-B4DA-30E9BEDE3920&Type=B_BASIC Agenda for - [PHAS Birding Field Trip - on Saturday Nov 15th 8 am - Canyon Lake Park](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-mid-november-1-day-birding-field-trip-on-either-nov-15th-or-16th/) - PHAS Mid November Birding Field Trip Saturday Nov 15th - contingent on weather (which looks good 5 days out). Jedediah will lead a birding trip at Canyon Lake Park in Rapid City. Birders are to meet at 8 am, at the bridge that leads to the gazebo. Canyon Lake Park is off Jackson Blvd in - [Board of Minerals and Environment Telephone Conference Meeting 11/20/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-and-environment-telephone-conference-meeting-11-20-25/) - Board of Minerals and Environment Telephone Conference Meeting 11/20/25 Board of Minerals and Environment , Telephone Conference Meeting DANR Large Conference Room 523 East Capitol Avenue , Pierre, SD November 20, 2025 10:00 a.m. Central Time The public may participate in-person or via telephone by dialing 1-605-679-7263 and entering Conference ID 424 209 532# The full board packet and the - [Deadline to comment on - BLM wipe-out of it's Biden Era - Conservation & Landscape Health Rule](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-blm-wipe-out-of-its-biden-era-conservation-landscape-health-rule/) - Federal Register Notice & Comment Submission Title: Rescission of Conservation and Landscape Health Rule Published: September 11, 2025 Federal Register Docket / RIN: RIN 1004-AF03 Federal Register Affected CFR parts: 43 CFR parts 1600 and 6100 Federal Register Comment deadline: November 10, 2025 Federal Register Addresses for submitting comments: • Mail / Personal / Messenger: - [Monthly Clean Up of Rapid Creek - every Second Saturday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/monthly-clean-up-of-rapid-creek/) - Saturday, 11/08/2025, starting at 9:00 AM, location of Steele Avenue Park, 260 E Main Street N. - The Monthly Rapid Creek Clean Up. Every second Saturday morning there is a clean up of Rapid Creek, an event largely sponsored/organized by Black Hills Fly Fishers (BHFF), however other groups may help. Volunteers with Rapid City Chapter of - [Izaak Walton League - Rapid City Chapter, Nov. Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/izaak-walton-league-rapid-city-chapter-nov-meeting/) - Izaak Walton League - Rapid City Chapter, Nov. Meeting, will meet at SD Game Fish and Park's Outdoor Campus West at 6:30 Wednesday Nov 5th. Public is welcome. Zoom attendance may be available. Contact Jeff Anderson at jandy5750@gmail.com for more info. - [Deadline to comment on Homestake Mining Co. application for surface water discharge](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-homestake-mining-co-application-for-surface-water-discharge/) - The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has received a request for the modification of a Surface Water Discharge (SWD) permit from the following applicant: APPLICANT NAME: Homestake Mining Company PERMIT NUMBER: SDP000119 FACILITY LOCATION: Blacktail Water Treatment Facility: Located in Central City at 11457 Bobtail Gulch Street, in the Northeast ¼ - [PHAS November board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-november-board-meeting/) - PHAS November board meeting should be by Zoom on second Wednesday of November. The meetings are normally at 6 or 6:30 pm MT. They can run 1-2 hours. Contact Nancy at 605-787-6466 (land line) or phas.wsd@rapidnet.com for details such as Zoom codes or agenda. These meetings are open to PHAS members. Non-members must specifically be - [Ribbon Cutting Ceremony/Opening Shooting Range near Elk Vale Rd](https://phas-wsd.org/event/ribbon-cutting-ceremony-opening-shooting-range-near-elk-vale-rd/) - Pete Lien & Sons Shooting Sports Complex in Meade County - The new South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (SDGFP) shooting range is scheduled to open to the public on Saturday, November 8, 2025. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned for November 7, 2025, to officially open the facility, located about 12 miles north of Rapid City. Official - [Deadline to submit written comments to the SDGFP Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission/) - Deadline to submit written comments to the SDGFP Commission for receipt before their November meeting, is 11:59 MT on Sunday night. Submit on web page: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ting Go to Current meeting overview web page, on the Friday before the weekend of Nov 1-2 to get a copy of the Agenda and Commission Book, if they are - [November Hybrid meeting of SDGFP Commission in Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/november-hybrid-meeting-of-sdgfp-commission-in-pierre/) - November Hybrid meeting of SDGFP Commission in Rapid City Thursday, November 6- Friday, November 7th Agenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_Nov_6-7_Public_Copy.pdf =========== Date and Time: November 6, 2025, from 2-3 pm MT and November 7, from 8-11am MT Meeting Location: Outdoor Campus West, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, SD 57702 Webinar Info: SDGFP will be using Zoom Webinar® - [Forestry Basics Field Trip with Dave Mertz - Fri., November 14th, Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/forestry-basics-field-trip-with-dave-mertz-fri-november-14th-black-hills/) - FORESTRY BASICS FIELD TRIP WITH DAVE MERTZ - Fri., November 14th (contingent on weather),- meeting at 9 am at Sugar Shack on Hwy 385. Every fall Dave Mertz, a forester, retired from the Black Hills National Forest (BHNF), leads us on a field trip in the Black Hills to learn about forestry basics and the BHNF logging program. Prairie Hills Audubon Society, - [Meade County Planning Commission meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-planning-commission-meeting/) - Meade County Planning Commission meeting Meade County offices, 1300 Sherman Street, Sturgis, SD The meeting starts at 1 pm on Monday. The public comment period happens very close to the start of the meeting. We are not sure when the meet ends. We have heard rumors that the - pending limestone mine already licensed by - [Pennington County Planning Commission to review amendment to Alternative Energy ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-planning-commission-to-review-amendment-to-alternative-energy-ordinance/) - It is a review at the Pennington County Planning Commission of an amendment to the Alternative Energy Ordinance. The Commission meeting starts at 9 am, we are not sure when it will end. The Ordinance is item # 17 on the Agenda, so likely not heard promptly at 9 am. Check with staff for an - [Alternative Energy Amendment to Ordinance brfor Pennington County Comission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/alternative-energy-amendment-to-ordinance-brfor-pennington-county-comission/) - Consideration of Alternative Energy Amendment to Pennington's existing Ordinance . Draft Ordinance changes will have first of two readings before Pennington County Commission on the 4th of November.. For details see alert o the historic Planning Commission meeting Monday, Oct 27th on this calendar. We have been told the draft Ordinance did not change - [Black Hills Sportsmen will have GFP Secretary, Kevin Robling, speaker at their November lunch meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-sportsmen-will-have-gfp-secretary-kevin-robling-speaker-at-their-november-lunch-meeting/) - Black Hills Sportsmen (BHSM) will have GFP Secretary, Kevin Robling, as the speaker at their November lunch meeting. They will meet for lunch on Tuesday, 11/4 at 11:45 am. BHSM's guest speaker will be, secretary of the GF&P, Kevin Robling. Likely location: Rushmore Inn and Suites in downtown Rapid City - this where they always meet, - [Deadline to Comment to Dept of Interior on Oil/Gas Leasing in Western Arctic](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-to-dept-of-interior-on-oil-gas-leasing-in-western-arctic/) - Deadline to Comment to Dept of Interior on Oil/Gas Leasing in Western Arctic is Nov 21st, but midnight in Alaska occurs very early on the next day in SD (Nov 22nd) The Nov 21, 2025 deadline is for the NPR-A (Western Arctic) Call for Nominations & Comments. This is the western Arctic not just ANWR specifically. - [SD Dakota Rural Action - Annual meeting in Spearfish](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-dakota-rural-action-annual-meeting-in-spearfish/) - Dakota Rural Action’s 2025 annual meeting is scheduled for October 17–18, 2025 in Spearfish, South Dakota, at the Snapper’s Club (venue address commonly listed as 416 S. Canyon St., Spearfish, SD 57783). For details - https://www.dakotarural.org/save-the-date-for-our-38th-annual-meeting/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Schedule of Events: Friday-Saturday ===================== Friday, October 17th The Snapper's Club, Spearfish 6:30 - 8:30pm Firepit Social Music, s'mores, & - [Rescission of Conservation and Landscape Health Rule Public Comment Deadline: November 10, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rescission-of-conservation-and-landscape-health-rule-public-comment-deadline-november-10-2025/) - Rescission of Conservation and Landscape Health Rule Public Comment Deadline: November 10, 2025. The purple line stretching across the Calendar days, indicates a comment period that ends at midnight EST on November 10th. Go to the posting on November 10th for details on how to comment and the issues involved - https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-trumps-rescission-of-blms-conservation-and-landscape-health-rule/ - [Senate Committee Vote on "FIX OUR FORESTS" rewrite - oppose S.1462](https://phas-wsd.org/event/senate-committee-vote-on-fix-our-forestsrewrite-opposes-1462/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society Objects to the House “Fix Our Forests Act” (H.R. 8446). CHAT GTP prepared the below report for us: None of our Senators are on Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, but Thune is head of the Senate. https://www.energy.senate.gov/ The “Fix Our Forests Act” (H.R. 8446) passed the U.S. House of Representatives in - [Chad Hanson speaking on Fire Ecology and other fire related topics - Zoom meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/chad-hanson-speaking-on-fire-ecology-zoom/) - Chad Hanson of the John Muir Project will be speaking on fire in forest - on the FOREST FIRE ECOLOGY, Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) and the Norbeck Society are sponsors and it is on the evening of Wednesday, Oct 22nd 6:30 MT by Zoom. The public is invited to the meeting. . Zoom codes & phone options - [Deadline to Comment on Trump's Rescission of BLM's Conservation and Landscape Health Rule](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-trumps-rescission-of-blms-conservation-and-landscape-health-rule/) - Proposed rescission (“Public Lands Rule” rollback) Document: Rescission of Conservation and Landscape Health Rule (BLM proposed rule)Citation: 90 FR 43990 (Document No. 2025-17537)CFR parts affected: 43 CFR parts 1600 & 6100RIN: 1004-AF03Publication date: September 11, 2025. Federal Register Comment deadline: November 10, 2025 (“Comments must be received by November 10, 2025.”). Regulations.gov also lists the - ["No Kings II" protest Mid-day Rapid City, Sturgis & Spearfish & elsewhere the Region](https://phas-wsd.org/event/no-kings-ii-protest-12-pm-130-10-18-25/) - "No Kings II" protests in Black Hills Area No Kings II - Morning October 18 @ 11:30 am-1 pm Spearfish SD, United States North Main Street & West Jackson Street Spearfish, SD 57783 =============================== No Kings II - Midday October 18 @ 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm UTC-6 Rapid City, SD, United States City Hall 300 6th St, Quote - [Black Hills Environmental Coalition Potluck Series - Nov. Theme - Water in the Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-environmental-coalition-potluck-series-nov-theme-water-in-the-black-hills/) - Black Hills Environmental Coalition Potluck Series - November Theme - Water in the Black Hills November 6th, 2025, 5 pm Minneluzahan Senior Center, Rapid City, SD We have no idea how long the event will last, but have guessed at 3 hours. For more info.: Megan Werpy - meganwerpy@gmail.cpm - [PHAS Monday night dinner meet - 11/3/2025 at Hana's Japanese/Korean Restaurant, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monday-night-dinner-meet-11-3-2025-at-hanas-japanese-korean-restaurant-rapid-city/) - PHAS Monday night dinner meet - 11/3/2025 at Hana's Japanese/Korean Restaurant, Rapid City Monday eve meal, November 3rd, 2025 PHAS is having a social get-together. We will meet & eat together after 5:30 pm at Hana’s Japanese/Korean Grill & Sushi Bar, 3550 Sturgis Rd, NE of intersection with West Chicago. We will be using the back - [SD Game, Fish and Parks October Hybrid Commission meeting & contested case hearing](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-october-hybrid-commission-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks October Hybrid Commission meeting- by Zoom and in Lemmon SD. Also contested case hearing. Date and Time: October 9, 2025, from 1-5 pm MT Meeting Location: Beeler Community Center, 203 Main Avenue, Lemmon, SD 57638 Open Forum is at 2 pm MT. Please inform Gail Buus at gail.buus@state.sd.us by 1 - [PHAS October board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-october-board-meeting/) - PHAS board of directors meetings are by Zoom on the eve of the second Wednesday, These may be postponed if a quorum is found not to be possible. PHAS members are welcome at PHAS board meetings, others by invitation. Contact Nancy at 605-787-6466 or other board member if you wish to come and want Zoom - [Owl-O-Ween - an annual event at the Black Hills Raptor Center on Saturday October 25th,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/owl-o-ween-an-annual-event-at-the-black-hills-raptor-center-on-saturday-october-25th/) - Join the Black Hills Raptor Center (BHRC) in celebrating “Owl”-O-Ween on Saturday, October 25 noon- 5 pm, at the Black Hills Raptor Center facility, 15256 EAST Hwy 44, Rapid City. Families are invited to make a reservation and explore the world of owls and other raptors. Black Hills Raptor Center volunteers will be at the - [World Migratory Bird Day - Fall celebration October 11th, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-migratory-bird-day-fall-celebration-october-11th-2025/) - About World Migratory Bird Day World Migratory Bird Day is a global campaign that serves as a beacon for conservation efforts aimed at protecting migratory birds and their journeys across borders. Celebrated twice a year—in May and October—WMBD reflects the cyclical nature of bird migration and the varying peak periods in the northern and southern - [Deadline to Comment to GFP Commission for their October meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-to-gfp-commission-for-their-october-meeting/) - Deadline to Comment to GFP Commission for their October meeting is Sunday night 10/5/25 at just before midnight MDT. The hybrid meeting will be in Lemmon, SD & Zoom. Lemmon is in MDT. You can always postal mail comments, but for commenting digitally, you use their on-line commenting portal - https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ When we are close - [John Thune to speak at Black Hills Forum & Press Club Lunch - Hilton Double Tree at lunch](https://phas-wsd.org/event/john-thune-to-speak-at-black-hills-forum-press-club-lunch-hilton-double-tree-at-lunch/) - The Black Hills Forum & Press Club will host Senator Thune on Friday, September 26, 2025 at 11:30 at the Double Tree by Hilton Rapid City Downtown Convention Center. Tickets include a luncheon. There might be a protest outside the hotel. We are not sure who is organizing that, if any, but Indivisible might know about - [National Public Lands Day- various events, free admission - Sat, 9/27/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-public-lands-day-events-sat-9-27-25/) - National Public Lands Day event - Join the nationwide celebration of National Public Lands Day (NPLD) on the fourth Saturday of September. This most extensive single-day volunteer effort for public lands, a signature event of the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF), unites individuals and communities to improve and enjoy our treasured outdoor spaces. Since 1994, - [Clean UP Rapid Creek volunteer event - 2nd Saturday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-volunteer-event-2nd-saturday/) - Clean Up Rapid Creek volunteer event - is the 2nd Saturday of every month. We don't yet know the meeting location or start time. Please verify with Black Hills Fly Fishers - Bill Young at 605-391-1002, or guinnessmarsh@gmail.com, It might be 9 am, behind Little Caesars off West Main in Rapid City, as that is - [2025 Pennington County Conservation District Annual Conference](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2025-pennington-county-conservation-district-annual-conference/) - 2025 Pennington County Conservation District 2nd Annual Conference Wednesday, September 24th, 2025 - Best Western Ramkota Hotel, Rapid City, 9 am-5 pm MT link to URL for the conference and view agenda: https://www.penningtonconservation.com/conference Registration ($25.00) https://www.eventbrite.com/e/pennington-conservation-district-conference-2025-tickets-1622946339189 - [Deadline to comment on Trump Administration rewrite of BLMs plans for sage grouse management](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-trump-administration-rewrite-of-blms-sage-grouse-management-plans/) - Friday, October 3rd, is the deadline to comment on Trump Administration's rewrite of BLMs plans for greater sage grouse management. We assume the time-of-day is just before midnight EST. URL to CENTER FOR BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY PRESS RELEASE ON THIS - https://biologicaldiversity.org/w/news/press-releases/trump-nukes-protections-for-greater-sage-grouse-2025-09-02/ A quote from their press release: "Today’s document, which opens an - [Comments due on Sawbuck Timber Sale EA](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-sawbuck-timber-sale-ea/) - Comments due on Sawbuck Timber Sale EA, Friday October 17th The Mystic District of the Black Hills National Forest has released the preliminary environmental assessment (EA) for the Sawbuck Forest Management Project. Documents can be found at the following web address: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/projects/67518. The District says: "We are proposing conifer thinning, timber stand improvement, prescribed fire, - [Presentation on America’s Public Lands, Joy Center, Spearfish, 9/29/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/19989/) - Presentation on America’s Public Lands, Joy Center, Spearfish, 9/29/25 September 29 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm Presentation – “The History & Future of America’s Public Land”, by presenter Walt Dabney. In Spearfish, SD on the evening of Monday, September 29th, 2025 Walt is a retired National Park Service Superintendent and Director of Texas State Parks. He - [SD Water Management Board Oct meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-oct-meeting/) - WATER MANAGEMENT BOARD Meeting on October 1, 2025 Floyd Matthew Training Center Joe Foss Bldg., 523 E Capitol Ave, Pierre SD 9:30AM Call to Order For details visit: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 Agenda - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202510_Agenda.pdf Packet: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202510_BdPkt_portal.pdf Remote participation Microsoft Teams - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202510PortalParticipationInfoPublic.pdf - [Trump's Department of Agriculture working on rescinding Roadless Rule, Comment deadline Sept 19th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/trumps-department-of-agriculture-working-on-rescinding-roadless-rule-comment-deadline-sept-19th/) - Above is a photo of an old growth ponderosa pine in the Sand Creek Roadless Area of the Black Hills National Forest Trump's Department of Agriculture working on rescinding Roadless Rule - the Comment deadline is Friday, Sept 19th. The Clinton Administration in 2001, after doing an EIS, passed an administrative rule to designate subsets - [Comment Deadline on Reconsideration of 2009 Endangerment Finding and Greenhouse Gas Vehicle Standards](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-reconsideration-of-2009-endangerment-finding-and-greenhouse-gas-vehicle-standards/) - Monday, 9/15/25 is the Comment Deadline on Trump administration revoking EPAs “endangerment finding” -. The “endangerment finding” is the EPA’s scientific and legal conclusion that the Clean Air Act requires regulation of greenhouse gas emissions to protect public health and welfare. The EPA issued the endangerment finding in 2009 pursuant to the Supreme Court’s decision - [Board of Minerals Environment - meets for tours Deadwood](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment-meets-for-tours-deadwood/) - Board of Minerals Environment - It will meets for tours of mines or mine sites Deadwood To see the agenda and packet for the September 17, 2025 Board of Minerals and Environment meeting in Deadwood. This information is available on the South Dakota Boards and Commissions Portal at https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67 Agenda - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/Agenda%20BME%20Sept%2017%202025%20mledits.pdf Meeting Packet https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/Packet%20BME%20Sept%2017%202025%20mledits.pdf Board - [Presentation on America's Public Lands, Journey Museum 9/30/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/presentation-on-americas-public-lands-journey-museum-9-30-25/) - Presentation - "The History & Future of America's Public Land", by presenter Walt Dabney. At Journey in Rapid City, SD on the evening of Tuesday, September 30, 2025 Walt is a retired National Park Service Superintendent and Director of Texas State Parks. He has a very strong base of knowledge, huge "street cred", and is - [Visit to Beaver Dam Analog building project in the Northern Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/visit-to-beaver-dam-analog-building-project-in-the-northern-black-hills/) - Visit to Beaver Dam Analog building project in the Northern Black Hills at Green Gulch/Silver Creek. There will be another group visit to the Beaver Dam Analog building project in Green Gulch on Saturday Sept 20th, 2025 with a car pool leaving Rapid City at 9 am. We believe the Black Hills Fly Fishers and - [Comments due on Rapid City Comprehensive Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-rapid-city-comprehensive-plan/) - Comments are due on Rapid City Comprehensive Plan On Tuesday, Sept 9th, We are not sure of the time-of-day for the deadline, but assume just before midnight. https://www.rapidcitycomprehensiveplan.com/ Draft Plan: https://plan.konveio.com/rapid-city-draft-comprehensive-plan Commenting: https://plan.konveio.com/rapid-city-draft-comprehensive-plan-open-house-boards The draft document will remain on the web site till the 12th of Sept. It is sent for rewrite after that. - [Sierra Club's meeting on timber resources 9/18/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sierra-clubs-meeting-on-timber-resources-9-18-25/) - Black Hills Group of the Sierra Club 'smeeting on timber resources Outdoor Campus - West, Rapid City: Thursday, September 18 @ 6:30 p.m. - Mary Zimmerman will lead a discussion on "The Decline of the Black Hills Timber Resource" We are not sure how long the meeting will last, but everyone has to be gone from - [PHAS September Board meeting 9/10/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-september-board-meeting-9-10-25/) - PHAS (Prairie Hills Audubon Society) September Board meeting by Zoom 9/10/25 PHAS has board meetings once a month and these are supposed to be on the eve of the second Wednesday . These are open to PHAS members and others by invitation. We anticipate a board meeting on Wednesday the 10th of Sept. by Zoom, - [Clean up Rapid Creek volunteer event](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-volunteer-event/) - Clean up Rapid Creek volunteer event on Saturday September 13th. This clean up often happens on second Saturday of the month. The assembly location is often the parking lot behind Little Caesars off West Main in Rapid City and the time might be 9 am, but please verify with Black Hills Fly Fishers, Bill Young - [SD Game, Fish and Parks September Commission meeting - Hybrid meeting in Rapid City & Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-september-commission-meeting-hybrid-meeting-in-rapid-city-zoom/) - Sept 4th, 2025 -Commission approved the hunting season proposed by staff SD Game, Fish and Parks September Hybrid Commission meeting in Rapid City and Zoom. It was at Outdoor Campus West as this is the normal location when they meet in Rapid City (please verify). For more info. visit this web site when close to - [Deadline to Submit Written Comments to SDGFP Commission for their September mee](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-their-september-mee/) - On Sept 4th the Commission voted to approve the proposed season, as recommended by staff. Deadline to Submit Written Comments to SDGFP Commission for their September meeting was just before midnight MT on Sunday August 31st, Late comments are given to the Commissioners next month. Opponents to the Season got the most comments in - - [SD Ornithologist Union Fall Meeting at Sioux Falls 10/3/2025 - 10/5/2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-union-fall-meeting-at-sioux-falls-10-3-2025-10-5-2025/) - SD Ornithologist Union Fall meeting of SDOU at Sioux Falls 10/3/2025 - 10/5/2025 SDOU holds two meetings each year. The meetings are held in various places throughout the state and provide opportunity for sharing information and fun. The autumn meeting program includes presentations on ornithology and related natural history topics. The spring meeting emphasizes field - [Lawrence County Board of Adjustment/Commission hearing - Sand/Gravel](https://phas-wsd.org/event/lawrence-county-board-of-adjustment-commission-hearing-sand-gravel/) - Tuesday, August 26th, 9 am Lawrence County Board of Adjustment hearing on Sand/Gravel Mine proposal - at the Lawrence County Public Safety & Services Center, on a new 10 acre (101 acre max) Sand and Gravel mine proposal - This is a hybrid hearing and can be attended remotely - https://meet.goto.com/152688557 Oral testimony is allowed, - [PHAS meeting on Regional Predators, Zoom 8/27/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-meeting-on-regional-predators-zoom-8-27-25/) - PHAS Zoom meeting on Regional Predators, Wednesday August 27th, at 6:30-8:30 pm MT Zoom links are below - scroll down Agenda 1) SD biennial mt. lion season proposal,- - TAKE ACTION- written comment deadline 8/31/25, hybrid hearing 9/4/25 (remote testimony allowed) PHAS alerts written comments - https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-their-september-mee/ oral testimony - https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-september-commission-meeting-hybrid-meeting-in-rapid-city-zoom/ 2) Update on mt lion - [Deadline to comment on Forest Service Reorganization](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-forest-service-reorganization/) - USDA Opened a Public Comment Period on Department Reorganization Plan Link to plan - https://www.usda.gov/sites/default/files/documents/sm-1078-015.pdf Quote from the Dept of Agriculture: "(Washington, D.C., August 1, 2025) – U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced today the opening of a 30-day public comment period for stakeholders to provide feedback on the Department’s reorganization plan, as outlined in the Secretary’s memorandum (PDF, - ["The Importance of Resilient Watersheds" Journey Museum Theater, Rapid City. 8/20/25 7 pm MT](https://phas-wsd.org/event/the-importance-of-resilient-watersheds-journey-museum-theater-rapid-city-8-20-25-7-pm-mt/) - August 20, Wednesday, 7 pm: Dr Ellen Wohl "The Importance of Resilient Watersheds" Journey Museum Theater, Rapid City. This virtual presentation is free and open to the public. A prolific writer, Dr. Wohl’s work has dramatically influenced and guided river management and restoration worldwide. Co-sponsored by many groups. We don't know how long the meeting will last - [Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting 8/21-8/22](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-game-and-parks-commission-meeting-8-21-8-22/) - Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting, Mid-plains Community College Conference Room 1205 E 3 rd Street McCook, NE Friday, Friday, August 22, 2025, 8:00 AM Public Hearing - on Cougar & other seasons at 8:15 Am Thursday August 21st, afternoon 1 pm - There are also informational and strategic planning meetings on Thursday afternoon (scroll down to - [Deadline for written Comments to Nebraska G&P Commission's August Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-to-nebraska-gp-commissions-august-meeting/) - Deadline for written Comments to Nebraska G&P Commission's August Meeting is 1 pm Central time 8/20/25. Send to Sheri Henderson -- go to our announcement of meeting on August 21st-22 or June Commission meeting for more details on the issues. August notice: > https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-game-and-parks-commission-meeting-8-21-8-22/ Link to PHAS comments on the originally proposed cougar season (NEG&P June - [Earth Justice virtual town hall on Trump's threats to Roadless Rule 8/27/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-justice-webinar-on-trumps-threats-to-roadless-rule-8-27-25/) - Earth Justice virtual town hall on Trump's threats to Roadless Rule "People for Public Land": Action hour to Protect The Roadless Rule, Earth Justice writes: "The most important land protection measure of our lifetimes — The Roadless Rule — is under attack. The Roadless Rule has protected 58 million acres of our forest lands for more than - [The Next Fight For Wildlife - Virtual Call to Action to protect ESA - Webinar](https://phas-wsd.org/event/the-next-fight-for-wildlife-virtual-call-to-action-to-protect-esa-webinar/) - The Next Fight For Wildlife - Virtual Call to Action to protect ESA - Webinar Sponsored by Endangered Species Coalition Date & Time Tuesday, Aug 19, 2025 10:00 AM in MT Description Politicians in the U.S. House of Representatives are up to sneaky tactics. Snuck into a high stakes government funding bill, H.R. 4754, are sections to - [Hearing before the Board of Minerals and Environment on Craven Canyon Mineral Exploration 8/20-8/21-](https://phas-wsd.org/event/hearing-before-the-board-of-minerals-and-environment-on-craven-canyon-mineral-exploration-8-20-8-21/) - Pre-trail hearing before the Board of Minerals and Environment on approval (or not) of Craven Canyon Mineral Exploration 8/21/2025. There are 35 intervenors, including two tribal governments. Currently, the pre-hearing conference is scheduled to occur at 11 am CDT/10 AM MDT on August 21, 2025. The it will be held here in Pierre and also - [DRA webinar on CO2 Pipelines given recent Federal rules/laws](https://phas-wsd.org/event/dra-webinar-on-co2-pipelines-given-recent-federal-rules-laws/) - Webinar - Thursday August 14th 6PM CT "Charting the Next Steps in the Fight Against Carbon Capture" Message from DRA quoted below: "Friends and Allies, Congress’s massive budget bill gifted carbon capture companies a bigger taxpayer subsidy and fresh tax loopholes, but our work alongside other communities nationwide helped keep them from gutting local safety and - [PHAS August Board Meeting - August 13th,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-august-board-meeting-august-13th/) - PHAS August Board Meeting - August 13th, PHAS board meetings are supposed to be the evening of the 2nd Wednesday of the month. They are generally on this day, but can be moved if we know in advance that a quorum won't be achieved. PHAS board meetings are held by Zoom and normally start at - [Deadline for scoping comments on BLM proposed RMP amendments to enable coal mining in Powder River Basin](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-scoping-comments-on-blm-proposed-rmp-amendments-to-enable-coal-mining-in-powder-river-basin/) - Deadline for scoping comments on BLM proposed RMP amendments to enable coal mining in Powder River Basin. Link to federal register notice: https://public-inspection.federalregister.gov/2025-12672.pdf Earth Justice objects to this amendment & has a pre-fab comment letter on this project on their action alerts web page. https://earthjustice.org/action/this-coal-rich-area-was-protected-from-new-mining-but-now-the-trump-administration-wants-to-reverse-course?ms=web Quotes from Notice: " The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - [Deadline to comment on adverse rule-making about Alaska wild areas 8/4/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-adverse-rule-making-about-alaska-wild-areas-8-4-25/) - Deadline to comment on adverse rule-making about Alaska wild areas - BLM proposes to rescind the- “Management and Protection of the National Petroleum Reserve in Alaska” final rule. Comments must be received by August 4th, 2025 EarthJustice has a pre-fab online comment letter on drilling in arctic: https://earthjustice.org/action/the-western-arctic-is-under-threat-protect-one-of-the-most-important-ecosystems-on-earth?ms=web Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. In the Searchbox, enter - [Comment Deadline - National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-national-emission-standards-for-hazardous-air-pollutants-coal-and-oil-fired-electric-utility-steam-generating-units/) - National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants: Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric Utility Steam Generating Units Comment Period Ends: Aug 11, 2025 at 11:59 PM EDT EarthJustice has a prefab comment letter on this rule proposal: https://earthjustice.org/action/this-crucial-air-pollution-rule-is-under-attack?ms=web To view rule: https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OAR-2018-0794-6978 Quote from federal web page: "In this action, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is - [Federal House of Representatives returns from recess](https://phas-wsd.org/event/federal-house-of-representatives-returns-from-recess/) - Federal House of Representatives returns from August recess WE are not sure of time-of-day - so just guesses at 8 am https://www.house.gov/legislative-activity - [Comment Deadline on U.S. EPA's proposal to repeal all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-u-s-epas-proposal-to-repeal-all-greenhouse-gas-ghg-emissions-standards-for-fossil-fuel-fired-power-plants/) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to repeal all greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions standards for fossil fuel-fired power plants. Comments must be received on or before August 7, 2025. Link: https://www.regulations.gov/document/EPA-HQ-OAR-2025-0124-0001 Docket: https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EPA-HQ-OAR-2025-0124 The EPA is proposing that the Clean Air Act (CAA) requires it to make a finding that GHG emissions from - [Deadline to Comment on agencies such as Dept of Agriculture or Dept of Interior rewrite of NEPA Rules](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-agencies-such-as-dept-of-agriculture-or-dept-of-interior-rewrite-of-nepa-rules/) - Trump started revising CEQ rules earlier in the year - saying CEQ rules don’t apply anymore and each agency needs to write their own new versions https://ceq.doe.gov/docs/laws-regulations/CEQ-Interim-Final-Rule-Pre-publication-Version.pdf So the agencies have been doing that and Federal Register has recently published them These rules are effective July 3rd, but comments are due August 4th . We - [Deadline to comment on - Mandatory Regulatory Reviews to Unleash American Energy and Improve Government Efficiency -Rulemaking](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-mandatory-regulatory-reviews-to-unleash-american-energy-and-improve-government-efficiency-rulemaking/) - 8/4/25 is Deadline for Mandatory Regulatory Reviews to Unleash American Energy and Improve Government Efficiency -Link to rulemaking docket: https://www.regulations.gov/document/PHMSA-2025-0050-0001 This is an opportunity for advocates of less regulation of pipelines in America to submit suggestions for less regulation of pipelines. We suggest advocates more regulation write in and ask for more regulations. Quote - [Comment Deadline on Air Quality Construction Permit for Black Hills Power, in Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-air-quality-construction-permit-for-black-hills-power-in-rapid-city/) - Black Hills Power, Inc proposes to rescind their PSD permit and construct new dual fuel engines and emergency units with an air quality construction permit. DANR recommends approval of an air quality construction permit and to rescind the PSD permit. Comment or the intervention deadline is 8/11/2025. That is COB . Public Notice -mhttps://danr.sd.gov/Environment/AirQuality/PN/BHPLpn.pdf - [Deadline for groups to sign on to EarthJustice letter in opposition to Trump's rewrite of CEQ rules](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-groups-to-sign-on-to-earthjustice-letter-in-opposition-to-trumps-rewrite-of-ceq-rules/) - Deadline for groups to sign on to EarthJustice letter in opposition to Trump's rewrite of CEQ rules is - Thursday July 31st COB. If a group or individual wants a copy of the letter contact Nancy at 605-787-6466 or phas.wsd@rapidnet.com and I will forward it to you. It is however for groups to sign (not - [Open House at the Great Plains Botanic Garden in Hermosa, SD 6/6-6/7 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/open-house-at-the-great-plains-botanic-garden-in-hermosa-sd-6-6-6-7-2025/) - Friday & Saturday - June 6 & 7, 9:am-4:pm Open House at the Great Plains Botanic Garden. This event will be cancelled in case of serious rain making the grounds muddy. Find Garden a short distance east of Hwy 79 five miles south of Hermosa SD. The physical address is 14229 Windbreak Road, Hermosa, SD. - [BHNF Forest Service Advisory Board meeting might happen](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting-might-happen/) - BHNF Forest Service Advisory Board meeting might happen Please verify when close to the date - [Comment deadline for revised logging proposal at Buffalo project BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-for-revised-logging-proposal-at-buffalo-project-bhnf/) - Forest Service says: Due to changes in the planning process and proposed action for this project, an additional comment period will be conducted. . Additional information is available on the Buffalo project website: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/projects/67248 In notice says: " The 30-day public comment period for the Buffalo project was initiated on March 4, 2025, via a - [The Next Fight for Wildlife and Wild Places - Call to Action (Zoom webinar)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/the-next-fight-for-wildlife-and-wild-places-call-to-action-zoom-meeting/) - Topic The Next Fight for Wildlife and Wild Places - Call to Action Date & Time Selected Sessions: Jul 24, 2025 06:00 PM MT Description Congressional leaders are working on a sneaky way to take away protections for the wildlife and wild places we love. This is a serious moment. Gray wolves and grizzly bears - [Visit to Beaver Dam Analog Project in Green Gulch, Northern Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/visit-to-beaver-dam-analog-project-in-green-gulch-northern-hills/) - Visit to Beaver Dam Analog Project (BDA) Sites in Green Gulch, Northern Hills and learn about beaver dam analogs (BDA). July 19th is a group visit to show beaver dam analogs built in Green Gulch over several years by volunteers and the Forest Service and Black Hills Fly Fishers. This is an ongoing project; more - ["Threats to Public Lands", Sierra Club Hybrid Meeting at OCW](https://phas-wsd.org/event/threats-to-public-lands-sierra-club-hybrid-meeting-at-ocw/) - THREATS TO PUBLIC LANDS BLACK HILLS GROUP | SOUTH DAKOTA SIERRA CLUB PRESENTATION BY CHERYL SCHREIER Cheryl retired as Superintendent of Mount Rushmore National Memorial in 2019. In her nearly 40 years with the National Park Service, she served as superintendent of Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Knife River Indian Villages National Historic Site, - [Spearfish Creek Watershed Festival July 26th,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/spearfish-creek-watershed-festival-july-26th/) - Spearfish Creek Watershed Festival July 26th, Link to learn more: https://visitspearfish.com/events/spearfish-creek-watershed-festival Come celebrate Spearfish Creek and learn about the watershed from organizations that are working with and within it. 1. TOUR the Spearfish Hydro Plant. 2. A volunteer community CREEK CLEANUP. 3. Watershed FESTIVAL activities and education fair at Meier Park (right across the street - [SD GFP Commission's July hybrid meeting - 7/10/25-7/11/25, Zoom & Yankton](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-commissions-july-hybrid-meeting-7-10-25-7-11-25-zoom-yankton/) - SD GFP Commission's July hybrid meeting - 7/10/25-7/11/25 It will be by zoom, teleconference and in person in Yankton. When we are closer to the meeting date, meeting information will be posted at this site https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ July 10, 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. CT | July 11, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. CT NFAA Easton Yankton Archery - [Contact Dusty Johnson to oppose 2 bills (HR 281 & HR 839 ) about Grizzly Bear Delisting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/contact-dusty-johnson-to-oppose-2-bills-hr-281-hr-839-about-grizzly-bear-delisting/) - Contact Dusty Johnson to oppose 2 bills (H.R. 281 & H.R. 839 ) about Grizzly Bear Delisting and preventing federal land managers from banning lead used in hunting/fishing on their properties. Dusty Johnson's phone number in DC is (202) 225-2801 Dusty Johnson is on the House Agriculture and Natural Resources committee, which will meet on - [Comments due on Ponderosa mining project to BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-ponderosa-mining-project-to-bhnf/) - Ponderosa Exploration Drilling Project #64551 Scoping notice was published 7/20/25 by Black Hills National Forest. Comments are requested through 7/21/2025 11:59:59 PM (Mountain Standard Time). https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=64551 The Northern Hills District of Black Hills National Forest has released information for the proposed Ponderosa gold drilling project, with a 30-day comment period. Your comments are due by - [Deadline to request opportunity to testify at Wyoming G&F Commission July meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-request-opportunity-to-testify-at-wyoming-gf-commission-july-meeting/) - Deadline to request opportunity to testify at Wyoming G&F Commission July meeting (with extension) The deadline register to testify orally about Wyo. Mt lions/wolves hunt seasons at Wyoming GF Commission was Thursday July 10th ,however we have been given an extension by Toni Bell so it is now until Friday 7/11th/25 at COB - which - [Nation wide Protests - "Good Trouble Lives On" in Spearfish & Rapid City Thursday eve](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nation-wide-protests-good-trouble-lives-on-in-spearfish-rapid-city-thursday-eve/) - Nationwide Protests - "Good Trouble Lives On" -happening locally in Spearfish & Rapid City Thursday eve https://goodtroubleliveson.org/?SQF_SOURCE=indivisible Thu, Jul 17 5:00 PM — 6:30 PM MDT Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701 Rapid City, SD 57701 ======================== Thu, Jul 17 6:30 PM — 7:30 PM MDT Why We Fight Spearfish, SD 57783 Organized by Indivisible & - [Wyoming Game and Fish Commission July 15-16/ 2025 meeting in Evanston (hybrid)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-game-and-fish-commission-july-15-16-2025-meeting-in-evanston-hybrid/) - Wyoming Game and Fish Commission July 15-16th, meeting in Evanston & Zoom - check here for the agenda 15-16 ://wgfd.wyo.gov/commission At this meeting they will discuss and vote on proposed changes to mountain lion and wolf hunting seasons. You can attend virtually and make an appointment to testify, if you do it many days in - [PHAS's July Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phass-july-board-meeting/) - PHAS's July Board Meeting. Members are welcome at PHAS Board Meetings that are held on Zoom, non-members need an invitation. . Folks need to call Nancy for details, 605-787-6466 or e-mail has.wsd@rapidnet.com. PHAS Board meetings are normally on the eve of the second Wednesday of the month, unless a quorum can't be attained on that - [Kick out the Clowns & No Kings Nationwide Protest, Rapid City 2 local events 12-3:30 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/kick-out-the-clowns-nationwide-protest-rapid-city-event/) - "Kick out the Clowns" & "No Kings" Nationwide Protests, Rapid City - 2 local events-12 pm -3:30pm - a bunch in SD https://action.womensmarch.com/events/rapid-city-kick-out-the-clowns-end-the-greatest-shit-show-on-earth?akid=22578.3878946.hIHdfi ================================= "No Kings" protest starts at 12 pm 12 pm-1:30 -pm Location 300 6th Street Rapid City, South Dakota, 57701 ========================== "Kick out the Clowns" protest starts at 1:30 pm Rapid City, - [NE Game and Parks Commission June 12-13th, 2025 Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/ne-game-and-parks-commission-june-12-13th-meeting/) - NE Game and Parks Commission June 12-13th, 2025 Meeting NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS COMMISSION, County Inn and Suites Chimney Rock Room 664, Chase Blvd., Sidney, NE Friday, June 13, 2025 Sidney is presently located at the junction of U.S. Route 385 with I-80, and its location approximately halfway between Cheyenne, Wyoming, and North Platte, Nebraska, Mountain lions are on - [Comments due to NE Game and Parks on changes to Mt Lion Season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-to-ne-game-and-parks-on-changes-to-mt-lion-season/) - Comments due to NE Game and Parks on changes to Mt Lion Season Comments are due at 1 pm CT to NE Game and Parks on changes to their mt lion hunting season. They are sent to Sheri Henderson. - of NE G&Ps Go to our June 12-13th events/deadline calendar posting for all the - ["No Kings" protest in Spearfish, SD June 14th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/no-kings-protest-in-spearfish-sd-june-14th/) - Time Saturday, June 14 11am – 12:30pm MDT Location North Main Street & West Jackson Street Spearfish, SD 57783 Link to web page: https://www.mobilize.us/nokings/event/786835/?utm_source=indivisible Quote from the above web page: "About this event "In America, we don’t put up with would-be kings. NO KINGS is a national day of action and mass mobilization - [Comment deadlines June 10th Wyoming Game & Fish changes to Mt Lion and Wolf hunting seasons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadlines-june-10th-wyoming-game-fish-changes-to-mt-lion-and-wolf-hunting-seasons/) - CHEYENNE — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department has opened a comment period to gather public input on the following regulations: LIST OF REGULATIONS BEING CHANGED/REVIEWED AT JULY COMMISSION MEETING Chapter 22, Watercraft Regulation. Chapter 42, Mountain Lion Hunting Seasons. https://wgfd.wyo.gov/media/32271/download?inline https://wgfapps.wyo.gov/WGFD_WebSurvey/CommentOnly.aspx Chapter 44, Regulation for Issuance of Licenses, - [SDSU Native Plant Sale Spearfish, SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdsu-native-plant-sale-spearfish-sd/) - June 7, 10 am - 3 pm: The SDSU Native Plant Initiative will be selling native plants in Spearfish at the Snapper’s Club, - [SD Game Fish & Park's June hybrid Commission meeting Aberdeen and Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-june-hybrid-commission-meeting-aberdeen-and-zoom/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks June Commission hybrid meeting, in Aberdeen and Zoom, Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. The Dakota Event Center is located at 720 Lamont St. S in Aberdeen. This meeting will be held via Zoom/conference call and livestream. The meeting will begin Thursday, June 5 beginning at 1 pm CDT the public - [Deadline to Comment on ND Mt Lion & Furbearer (beaver & otter)seasons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/19020/) - June 14, 2025 @ 11:30 pm - 11:59 pm There is actually no specific day for the deadline to comment to ND on their furbearer regulations that we know of – , so I just picked June 14th,. The Department will send their recommendations to the Governor on July 17th. This gives staff 3 days to read - [Deadline to comment on the SD GFP's Draft rewrite of their Wildlife Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-the-sd-gfps-draft-rewrite-of-their-wildlife-action-plan/) - June 20th is a "sort of" Deadline to comment on the SD GFP's staff on their Draft rewrite of their Wildlife Action Plan. We call it a "sort of" as the Commission will act to approve it, likely at the July or September Commission meeting The federal government requires states to do this plan - [Deadline for written comments to the SDGFP Commission June meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission-june-meeting/) - The written comment deadline for SDGFP Commission meetings is 72 hours before the day of the meeting, which normally are on Thursdays, Sunday, June 1st just before midnight CT is the June Written comment deadline. You go to SDGFP web site, under Commission drop down menu https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/ to the submit public comment portal https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/and submit comments - [Scoping Comments due 6/20/25 Triple Seven Vegetation Management Project - Near Black Hawk,. BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comments-due-6-20-25-triple-seven-vegetation-management-project-near-black-hawk-bhnf/) - The Mystic District of the Black Hills National Forest has initiated public scoping for the Triple Seven Vegetation Management Project. This project is near Black Hawk, SD. Scoping documents can be found at the following web address: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r02/blackhills/projects/68023. Electronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the Comment Reviewing Officer via email at (comments-rocky-mounta...@usda.gov) with - [Comment deadline 6/13/25 on Nelson Hazardous Fuels Reduction Bearlodge Ranger District](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-6-13-25-on-nelson-hazardous-fuels-reduction-bearlodge-ranger-district/) - Comment deadline 6/13/25 on Nelson Hazardous Fuels Reduction Bearlodge Ranger District https://usfs-public.app.box.com/file/1864467479126 Quote from the Forest Service notice: "The U.S. Forest Service is proposing to reduce fire hazard on seven isolated parcels of National Forest lands adjacent to the Bear Lodge Mountains in Crook County, Wyoming. High fuel loading on these lands poses a risk - [Deadline to Comment on the draft “North American River Otter Action Plan, 2025-2029."](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-the-draft-north-american-river-otter-action-plan-2025-2029/) - Deadline May 23 @ 10:59 pm MT, 11:59 CT South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on the draft “North American River Otter Action Plan, 2025-2029.” The 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 - [Corrected Deadline to comment on definition of "harm"](https://phas-wsd.org/event/corrected-deadline-to-comment-on-definition-of-harm/) - 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. This is the link to the sign on letter that the National Audubon Society offers. (You go on-line and submit a pre-fab letter) https://act.audubon.org/a/protect-esa-2025 This - [Deadline to Comment on Grizzly Bear ESA listing Rule - USFWS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-grizzly-bear-esa-listing-rule/) - Deadline to Comment on Grizzly Bear ESA listing Rule, Sat May 17th, 2025 For info. visit https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/01/15/2025-00329/endangered-and-threatened-wildlife-and-plants-grizzly-bear-listing-on-the-list-of-endangered-and The USFWS writes "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 - [Cherry Stem Parking Project Comment Deadline- near agate beds at BGNG,NNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/cherry-stem-parking-project-comment-deadline-near-agate-beds-at-bgngnnf/) - Deadline for scoping comments on proposed parking lots near agate beds BGNG,NNF is May 30th Buffalo Gap National Grassland's Cherry Stem Parking Project Scoping Use of a categorical exclusion is planned. Forest Service writes: "The purpose of this project is to designate parking areas near high-use recreation sites. The need that is driving this - [Endangered Species Day Celebration](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-celebration/) - Friday, May 16th, 2025 Every 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, - [SD GFP Parks Free Weekend: Free Entry & No Fishing License Required (May 16–18)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-parks-free-weekend-free-entry-no-fishing-license-required-may-16-18/) - SD GFP Parks Free Weekend: Free Entry & No Fishing License Required (May 16–18) This 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 - [Scoping comments due on Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project, BGNG NNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comments-due-on-imlay-west-allotment-improvement-project-bgng-nnf/) - Scoping comments due on Imlay West Allotment Improvement Project, NNF Quotes from Forest Service letter: " Project Area The 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. - [Deadline to comment on SDGFP proposed Beaver Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sdgfp-proposed-beaver-action-plan/) - Deadline to comment on SDGFP proposed Beaver Action Plan. This 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 - [Comments due on SDGFP Beaver Action Plan July 2nd, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-sdgfp-beaver-action-plan-july-2nd-2025/) - Comments due on SDGFP Beaver Action Plan July 2nd, 2025 Here is a link to the plan. https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/beaverActionPLan-May_2025_Commission_Book_-2-1.pdf You normally need to post comments to the SDGFP Commission public comment page or postal mail to SDGFP staff, but the comment directions have not be posted yet, I have just been told the written comment deadline - [Deadline to Intervene in Project to explore for uranium above Craven Canyon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-intervene-in-project-to-explore-for-uranium-above-craven-canyon/) - DEADLINE TO SUBMIT COMMENT OR INTERVENE IS MAY 14. Deadline 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 - [PHAS May 2025 Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-may-2025-board-meeting/) - PHAS May 2025 Board meeting, 6:30 pm Wed. 5/14/25 Contact Nancy for info. 605-787-2806, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com, Open to members - others by invitation - [International Migratory Bird Day](https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-migratory-bird-day/) - International Migratory Bird Day is the second Saturday in May. May 10th A local event is planned to celebrate IMBD, but will likely be on the third weekend, at Bear Butte State Park. PHAS has a field trip to La Creek NWR every May, it is usually on the first or second Saturday in May. - [Extended Deadline to Comment on Exploration for Graphite Mine BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/extended-deadline-to-comment-on-exploration-for-graphite-mine-bhnf/) - 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 Pete Lien and Sons Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project. https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=67838 The scoping comment period for this project is April 9, 2025 - May 9, 2025. Project web page and - [Deadline for scoping comments on Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-scoping-comments-on-rochford-mineral-exploratory-drilling-project/) - May 9th was the former deadline to send comments. . THIS DEADLINE HAS BEEN EXTENDED A WEEK to Friday the 16th Pete Lien and Sons Rochford Mineral Exploratory Drilling Project. https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/CommentInput?Project=67838 The scoping comment period for this project is April 9, 2025 - May 9, 2025. Electronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the - [SD Game, Fish and Parks May Commission hybrid meeting, in Custer and Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-hybrid-meeting-in-custer-and-zoom/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks May Commission hybrid meeting, in Custer and Zoom, When close to the date visit this page for agenda and documents presented to Commission: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Agenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_Public_May_2025.pdf Date and Time: May 8, 2025, from 1-5 pm MT | May 9, 2025, from 8 am-12 pm MT Meeting Location: Custer State Park - [Deadline (5/17/25) to comment on USFWS rule change on Endangered Species](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-5-17-25-to-comment-on-usfws-rule-change-on-endangered-species/) - Our statement that the deadline to comment on USFWS rule change on Endangered species is 5/17/25 was wrong - it is really May 19th, 2025. We were off by 2 days. This is an extremely bad rule proposal & must be opposed. For more than 40 years, the harm definition has protected endangered species - [SDSU Native Plant sale, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdsu-native-plant-sale-rapid-city/) - SDSU Native Plant sale, Gardens behind Canyon Lake Activity Center, Rapid City, June 8th, 2025 https://www.facebook.com/events/canyon-lake-activity-center/rapid-city-garden-club-hosting-sdsu-native-plant-sale/563122586809562/ Native Plant's Sale and Free Gardening Seminar--- 11am Pollinator Habitat--- 1pm Planting for Birds---2pm Germinating Native Seeds - [Beaver Ecology Lecture](https://phas-wsd.org/event/beaver-ecology-lecture/) - Beaver Ecology Lecture - Dr. Emily Fairfax presenting Journey Museum 7 pm 6/18/25 We don't know end time, but have guessed at 9 pm - [Pennington County Master Gardener's Annual Plant share](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-master-gardeners-annual-plant-share/) - 5/17/25 Pennington County Master Gardener's Annual Plant share, at 8am, Walter Taylor building - Central States Fairground We are not sure how long it runs have guessed at 8 am- 5 pm - [Idea Wild Auction at Journey Museum](https://phas-wsd.org/event/idea-wild-auction-at-journey-museum/) - Idea Wild Auction at Journey Museum This event starts at 5 pm, we don't know when it ends 30th Anniversary benefit auction ideawild@ideawild.org https://ideawild.org/events/ - [IMPEACH, CONVICT, REMOVE Rally by Indivisible - 2 pm, May 3rd in Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/impeach-convict-remove-rally-by-indivisible-2-pm-may-3rd-in-rapid-city/) - May 3 @ 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm UTC-6 IMPEACH, CONVICT, REMOVE Rally City Hall 300 6th St, Rapid City, SD, United States Indivisible Facebook page writes: "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 - [Written Comment Deadline SDGFP Commission May Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-sdgfp-commission-may-meeting/) - Written Comment Deadline for SDGFP Commission's May Meeting It is before midnight MT on Sunday night 5/4/25 - the web site to post comments to is: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. Commission 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/ - [Field trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-to-la-creek-national-wildlife-refuge-2/) - 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 - [Deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for July meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-july-meeting/) - Deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for July meeting is before midnight on the Sunday before the Thursday meeting. There is a public comment portal on the SDGFP Commission web page Commission’s submit public comment link – https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ Unless you want to communicate directly with each Commissioner (those comments will not be - [Deadline to file against Wharf Ground Water Discharge Plan Renewal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-file-against-wharf-ground-water-discharge-plan-renewal/) - This is a direct quote from the DANR's Notice: Notice of Recommendation on an Application for a Groundwater Discharge Plan Renewal "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 - [Water and Natural Resources Board May 1st meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-and-natural-resources-board-may-1st-meeting/) - Upcoming Meetings 05/01/2025 | May Special Meeting Start Date/Time: 05/01/2025 10:30 AM End Date/Time: 05/01/2025 01:00 PM Time Zone: Central Standard Time Description: Location: DANR - Foss Building - Matthew's Training Center Documents: Description File Type Upload Date Agenda Agenda 4/24/2025 2:52:06 PM Full Packet Document 4/24/2025 2:52:23 PM Links: Listen Live Audio Files*: There - [Water Management Board Meeting May 5 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-board-meeting-may-5-2025/) - Water Management Board Meeting May 5 2025 https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 05/07/2025 | Water Management Board Start Date/Time: 05/07/2025 09:30 AM End Date/Time: 05/07/2025 12:00 PM Time Zone: Central Standard Time Description: May 7, 2025 WMB Meeting Location: DANR - Foss Building – Matthew Training Center Documents: Description File Type Upload Date Agenda Agenda 4/28/2025 11:16:13 AM Board - [Native American Fish and Wildlife Society 2025 Annual National Conference in Wyoming](https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-american-fish-and-wildlife-society-2025-annual-national-conference-in-wyoming/) - 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. Agenda: https://www.nafws.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/2025-National-Conference-Agenda.-DRAFT-4.24.25.pdf Early Bird Registration Fees (Until March 28, 2025): Non-member – - [3 days of free entrance to SDGFP Parks](https://phas-wsd.org/event/3-days-of-free-entrance-to-sdgfp-parks/) - From May 16-18, entrance into all South Dakota State Parks is free and no fishing license is required (limits and regulations still apply). We are not sure when Parks open and let people enter and when they each close so we have them opening at 12:01 am and closing at midnight - but each park - [Follow up meeting to fall Anti-mining summit meeting for BlackHills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/follow-up-meeting-to-fall-anti-mining-summit-meeting-for-blackhills/) - Protecting the Black Hills from Mining Summit, Follow up Meeting, May 9th, 10 am-4 pm MT, Check-in starts at 9:30 am Space is limited you must pre-register to attend Go to https://wp.me/P8vQtg-4H5 or https://bhcleanwateralliance.org/summit_followup_may2025/ - [Black Hills Photo Club Contest deadline - "For the Birds"](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-photo-club-contest-deadline-for-the-birds/) - Black Hills Photo Club Contest deadline - For the Birds Friday, May 30, 2025 12:00 AM 9:00 PM June - The summer will be "For the Birds" For info https://www.blackhillsphotographyclub.com/events/winter-wonderland-p286k-tctac Competitions are for club members only, but guests are welcome to check out BHPC themes and attend meetings where submissions are shown! The club meets monthly on - [Greenways Days Rapid City 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/greenways-days-rapid-city-2025/) - Greenways Days Rapid City 2025, June 13th-June 15th Visit this link for more information https://friendsofrcparks.com/greenway-days/ This is Outdoor Adventures for all ages Friday, June 13 to Sunday, June 15, 2025 with partnership organizations such as Frisbee Golf Tournament, Black Hills Running Company, Rapid City Public Library, Journey Museum Creek Cleanup, The Monument Greenway Storyboard, Black Hills Paddlers, - [Clean Up Rapid Creek event along rapid Creek](https://phas-wsd.org/event/clean-up-rapid-creek-event-along-rapid-creek/) - On Saturday, the group 50501 will join Clean Up Rapid Creek at the Cherry Avenue Bridge at 10 a.m. to help clean the shores of Rapid Creek. This is part of nationwide protest/service effort. Article - SD: https://www.dakotanewsnow.com/2025/04/18/day-action-demonstrations-planned-across-south-dakota/ Map of events-USA: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1f-30Rsg6N_ONQAulO-yVXTKpZxXchRRB2kD3Zhkpe_A/preview Article: https://www.newsweek.com/anti-trump-protests-us-map-list-2061036 We don't know how long the event will last, but - [April 14th (or 13th) is the deadline to comment on ACE rules for Energy Emergency process for Sec 404 of the Clean Water Act](https://phas-wsd.org/event/april-14th-or-13th-is-the-deadline-to-comment-on-ace-rules-for-energy-emergency-process-for-sec-404-of-the-clean-water-act/) - April 14th (or 13th) is the deadline to comment on Army Corps of Engineer's (ACE) rules for Energy Emergency process for Sec 404 of the Clean Water Act Special Public Notice National Energy Emergency E.O. 14156 - use of emergency processing procedures for Energy Emergency permits and use of 36 CFR 800.12(b)(2) The Omaha District [ACE] posted - [Deadline to comment on BHNF's Frass Forest Health Project Environmental Assessment;](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-bhnfs-frass-forest-health-project-environmental-assessment/) - Deadline to comment on BHNF's Frass Forest Health Project Environmental Assessment; "This project is to primarily salvage dead/dying timber and includes the installation of wildfire fuel breaks on National Forest Service lands in an area to the east of Pringle, SD, in Custer County, SD." or "Project to primarily salvage harvest beetle infected and/or killed - [Collaborating for Biodiversity Deadline for Artwork submissions is April 23rd](https://phas-wsd.org/event/collaborating-for-biodiversity-deadline-for-artwork-submissions-is-april-23rd/) - Collaborating for Biodiversity's deadline for art submissions is April 23rd Collaborating for Biodiversity is a K-12 youth art project celebrating species protected by the Endangered Species Act. You are invited to submit artworks created in collaboration with two or more youth artists. We’ve created Collaborating for Biodiversity in honor of the 20th Anniversary of Endangered Species Day, - [Endangered Species Chalk Art Competition](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-chalk-art-competition/) - Endangered Species Chalk Art Competition The competition will occur from Thursday, May 1, 2025 to Sunday, May 18th. Friday, May 16th is Endangered Species Day https://www.endangered.org/endangered-species-chalk-art-event/ People draw pictures of Endangered Species on side walks, parking lots , roads, garage floors etc. you take a photo of your chalk art and post to https://form.jotform.com/250779081878069 There - [Deadline for extended comment period on Monarch Butterfly's ESA listing proposal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-extended-comment-period-on-monarch-butterflys-esa-listing-proposal/) - Deadline for an extended comment period on Monarch Butterfly's ESA listing proposal Deadline of new comment period on monarch butterfly proposed listing, is May 19th, On March 18th, the USFWS extended the previous comment period for another 60 days. Officials say the proposed rule includes species-specific protections and flexibilities to encourage conservation of the - [PHAS Monthly Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-board-meeting/) - PHAS Monthly Board Meeting, these are held by Zoom at 6:30 pm. They are open to members and non-member friends by invitation. Contact Nancy if you want to come 605-787-6466, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com. These are supposed to occur on the second Wednesday of the month but can be moved to different day if quorum can't be attained, - [Climate Watch Spring Season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-spring-season/) - Climate Watch Spring Season Climate 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) . Like the Christmas bird count this is a chance to help create “citizen science” for birds. Climate Watch focuses - [West River Spring [Bird] Migration Count](https://phas-wsd.org/event/west-river-spring-bird-migration-count/) - West River Spring [Bird] Migration Count The 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 - [International Beaver Day - April 7th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-beaver-day-april-7th/) - International Beaver Day is celebrated annually on April 7. The holiday was created in 2009 by Beavers Wetlands & Wildlife (B.W.W.,) a non-profit organization with members in the United States, Canada, and other countries. Beavers are a unique and important keystone species, having a great impact on the ecosystem. - [Western SD Hydrology Conference 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/western-sd-hydrology-conference-2025/) - The 2025 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference will be held on Thursday April 10, 2025, at the Monument in Rapid City - 8am - 6pm MDT Registration information: Registration will open on February 5, 2025, at the conference Eventbrite website. Professional development hours will be available to interested parcipants for sessions attended. Registration fees include lunch - [50501 Protest Rapid City, near City Hall 12-2 pm "Remove, Reverse, Reclaim](https://phas-wsd.org/event/50501-protest-rapid-city-near-city-hall-12-2-pmremove-reverse-reclaim/) - 50501 Protest in Rapid City, near City Hall 12-2 pm, Title "Remove, Reverse, Reclaim Quote from promotion: "Unite against oppression, dictatorship Rapid City will join with cities throughout the nation to defend freedom and protect our future at a peaceful protest, from noon-2 pm Saturday, April 5, on public sidewalks outside City Hall on Omaha - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission April Meeting at Pierre, SD and Zoom link](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-april-meeting-at-pierre-sd-and-zoom-link/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Hybrid Commission April Meeting at Pierre, SD and via Zoom link The meeting will start at 1 pm CT on Thursday and end at noon CT (or earlier) on Friday. Zoom Webinar: Click here to join the meeting , Meeting ID: 912 6417 6710, Passcode: 970458, Call In: +16699009128,,91264176710# US, - [National Park Week - week long events](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-park-week-week-long-events/) - National Park Week - week long events National Park Week (April 19-27) is a time to celebrate and enjoy our national parks, with many parks offering special events and activities. Feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited in national parks, as it disrupts their natural behavior and can be harmful. National Park Week Events: Free Entrance: Many national parks - ["Hands Off" mobilization - National Protests/events on 4/5/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/handsoff-mobilization-national-protests-events-on-4-5-25/) - NATIONAL DAY OF ACTION - SATURDAY, APRIL 5 "Hands Off" mobilization - National Protests/events on 4/5/25- Quote from the organizing web page: "Donald Trump and Elon Musk think this country belongs to them. They're taking everything they can get their hands on, and daring the world to stop them. On Saturday, April 5th, we're taking - [Some Municipal and School Board elections can occur on 4/8/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/some-municipal-and-school-board-elections-can-occur-on-4-8-25/) - In SD, Municipal and School Board elections can occur on three days (4/8/25, 6/3/25, 6/17/25) , depending on the City or School Boards choices from the date options the SOS offers. https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/assets/2025MunicipalElectionCalendar.pdf https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/assets/2025%20Documents/2025SchoolElectionCalendar.pdf In Lawrence County - Spearfish, Lead & Deadwood municipal elections happen and also Lead-Deadwood School Board Elections. I don't know all the other - [SD Ornithologist Union Biennial Spring Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-union-biennial-spring-meeting/) - SD Ornithologist Union Biennial Spring Meeting This 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. There is a fantastic array of field trips scheduled in all three states, a Friday - [Wyoming Hunting seasons comment deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-hunting-seasons-comment-deadline/) - The public comment period for Chapters 2 (General Hunting) , 5 (Antelope) , 6 (Deer), 7 (Elk), 8 (Moose), 9 (Bighorn Sheep and Mountain Goat), 11 (Upland Bird and Small Game), 14 (Migratory Game Bird & Light Goose), 15 (Wild Bison) and 20 (Wild Turkey) is now open through 5:00 p.m. on April 2, 2025. - [BHNF Buffalo Forest Health project's scoping deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-buffalo-vegetation-management-projects-scoping-deadline/) - Notice was published in the Pioneer on March 4th. BHNF Buffalo Forest Health project's scoping deadline would thus be Thursday April 3rd. A detailed project description and project maps are available for review on the project website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67248. The preferred method is to submit comments by visiting the Buffalo project website (https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=67248) and clicking - [Deadline to comment on Trump CEQ Rules (NEPA) Evisceration](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-trump-ceq-rules-nepa-evisceration/) - Deadline to comment on Trump CEQ Rules (NEPA) Evisceration 3/27/25 For more information go to rule making proposal - https://www.regulations.gov/document/CEQ-2025-0002-0001 Temporary Guidance after CEQ rules revoked- https://ceq.doe.gov/docs/ceq-regulations-and-guidance/CEQ-Memo-Implementation-of-NEPA-02.19.2025.pdf Link to Earth Justice's pre-fab on-line comment letter (simple to send) https://earthjustice.org/action/polluting-industries-are-trying-to-silence-communities?ms=web The National Audubon Society has a pre-fab on-line letter you can send on rule making (simple to - [PHAS members working meeting - eve March 28th Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-members-working-meeting-_-march-28th-zoom/) - PHAS members working/discussion meeting March 28th evening by Zoom This meeting will be by Zoom and will start at 6:30 pm MT, This will be to discuss actions needing to be taken on various campaigns of PHAS and any conservation concerns brought forward by members/friends. It is not a meeting with much for formal presentations - [Trial about requiring referendum on Zoning Ordinance 24-05](https://phas-wsd.org/event/trial-about-requiring-referendum-on-zoning-ordinance-24-05/) - Trial about requiring referendum on Zoning Ordinance 24-05 It is at the Deadwood Court House at 9 am, however it is suggested folks arrive 15-30 minutes early. We don't know how long it will last, but have guessed at 2 hours. It used to be that in Lawrence County, SD, conditional use permits (CUPs) were decided - [Sierra Club's Lobbyist's review of 2025 SD Legislature](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sierra-clubs-lobbyists-review-of-2025-sd-legislature/) - Sierra Club's Lobbyist's review of 2025 SD Legislature This will be by Zoom at 6:00 pm MT , The National Sierra Club’s state liaison to our region is Eric Willadsen, and he may be on the program, too. There is a Zoom link. [https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85694938981] - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting, Pierre, SD and Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-sd-and-zoom/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting, Pierre, SD and Zoom, March 6-7 The meeting started at 1:00 pm CT on Thursday and was supposed to have ended by 12 pm CT on Friday. The Agenda was published on the GFP Commission "Current Meeting Overview" web page a few days before the meeting and will - [Written Comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission meeting on Thursday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-for-the-sdgfp-commission-meeting-on-thursday/) - March 30th is the written Comment deadline for the SDGFP Commission meeting that will occur on Thursday, April 3rd, 2025. Comments are due just before midnight the Sunday night (3/30/25) before the Commission Commission's submit public comment link - https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ Unless you want to communicate directly with each Commissioner (those comments will not be in - [Bear Butte Forum in Sturgis](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bear-butte-forum-in-sturgis/) - Bear Butte Forum in Sturgis This is an annual event where tribal folks are invited to meet with GFP about the management of Bear Butte, Non-tribal folks are also welcome. I have not seen the time and location but it is normally at the Sturgis Community Center from 8:30 to noon in one of the - [Objection deadline for North Sand Environmental Assessment, BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/objection-deadline-for-north-sand-environmental-assessment-bhnf/) - Objection deadline for FONSI on North Sand Forest Management Environmental Assessment, BHNF is just before midnight on 4/29/25 https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/file/1805706402518 For more information visit the project web page - https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/folder/246546688222 - [International Bird Day Celebration for Western SD - Bird Bash at Bear Butte](https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-bird-day-celebration-for-western-sd-bird-bash-at-bear-butte/) - International Bird Day Event Celebration for Western SD This event is at Bear Butte State Park - Bear Butte State Park Education Center, Sturgis, SD, 8 am - 3 pm MT It is organized/sponsored by Audubon Great Plains, American Bird Conservancy, Bird Conservancy of the Rockies, Black Hills Raptor Center, The Nature Conservancy, SDGFP, NRCS, - [PHAS Board Meeting for March](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-board-meeting-for-march/) - PHAS Board Meeting for March will be March 20th, at 6:30 by Zoom. PHAS Board Meetings are open to members, if you want to come - please call or e-mail Nancy Hilding to get the Zoom links. Nancy Hilding 605-787-6466, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com, - [Black Hills Area Botany and Ecology Workshop - March 7, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-area-botany-and-ecology-workshop-march-7-2025/) - March 7: Black Hills Area Botany and Ecology Workshop 2025. Here is the link to watch the recordings of the event - https://tnc.zoom.us/rec/play/iZvXHZFpbiknY_sI6ZWP1EVQf9K_hR5CMVGVfh1_Ak4O_NdQahModF1P-07rS7yLPnqvj_iSZveyKN6B._SVQyuFFP7AbBstS?accessLevel=meeting&canPlayFromShare=true&from=share_recording_detail&continueMode=true&componentName=rec-play&originRequestUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ftnc.zoom.us%2Frec%2Fshare%2FKJiRJyEgdcGdN4PQe1Mjr9zgMaNYQSZHxZ6KdIjxKN33qwj1wzaFDswvDXmp8H1n.6RU4L4fndLBKt2G0 Draft schedule: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Sj4xAW2zq1fA8YKma_Y2Ga4IGYJ42Lf7/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=108837412589411517394&rtpof=true&sd=true The workshop took place on-site at The Outdoor Campus - West, 4130 Adventure Trail, Rapid City, SD, and on-line via Zoom, Please register at this link, whether you will attend in person - [BHs Raptor Center Annual Spaghetti Feed, April 26th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhs-raptor-center-annual-spaghetti-feed-april-26th/) - Fly in for a family night of great food and raptors! This is Black Hills Raptor Center's annual family friendly, spaghetti dinner and silent auction! April 26th - food served 4:30-7:00 pm and and three raptor programs will be presented during the course of the evening. $10 fee asked for 1 dinner, Family is $30. - [Wyoming Game & Fish Sundance/Newcastle public meeting on hunting season proposals](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-game-fish-sundance-newcastle-public-meeting-on-hunting-season-proposals/) - Wyoming Game & Fish Sundance public meeting on hunting season proposals You are invited to one or more of the following meetings: March 19, 2025 6:00 PM Casper Casper Game and Fish Regional office (3030 Energy Lane) March 20, 2025 6:00 PM Glenrock Converse County Library (506 S 4th St) March 26, 2025 6:00 - [Black Hills National Forest, National Forest Advisory Board May Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-national-forest-advisory-board-may-meeting/) - Black Hills National Forest, National Forest Advisory Board, Wednesday, May 21st Meeting Times: Begin at 1 p.m. and end no later than 4:30 p.m. Location: Mystic Ranger District Office, 8221 Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 The public can attend, but can't speak unless ask to speak 3 days in advance Written comments and requests for time for - [SD Weed & Pest Control Commission April Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-weed-pest-control-commission-meeting/) - SD Weed & Pest Control Commission April Meeting in Pierre at Capitol Lake Visitors Center Start Date/Time: 04/09/2025 01:00 PM CT End Date/Time: 04/09/2025 05:00 PM CT https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=109 - [Board of Minerals and Environment Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-and-environment-meeting/) - Board of Minerals and Environment's March Meeting 03/20/2025 10:00 AM-12 PM CT, Telephone Conference Call Link to Agenda - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/Agenda%20March%2020%202025%20BME%20(3).pdf ITEMS Transfer of Small Scale Mine Permit 417 from Shirley and Andrew Krejci to Andrew Krejci – Eric Holm Annual update of post-closure financial assurance for Homestake Mining Company, Mine Permits 332 and 456 and Mine Permit - [World Water Day - Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-rapid-city/) - World Water Day - Rapid City March 22nd, 1:00-4:00 pm Hay camp Brewing 601 Kansas City St. Rapid City Entertainment by Alex Massa’s Water Music, Red Boy Means, and others, along with engaging speakers, door prizes, and a delicious light meal from The Hangry Buffalo! There is an annual fund-raising Silent Auction for Black Hills - [2025 SD Division of Izaak Walton League of America Convention in Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/17750/) - The 2025 SD Izaak Walton League Convention will be held in Rapid City this year on April 25-27 , 2025 Convention will be held at the Rushmore Hotel located at 445 Mt. Rushmore Road downtown Rapid City. Link to agenda - https://phas-wsd.org/wp-content/uploads/IKEs-2025-State-Conv-Agenda.docx The deadline to register is 4/10/25. Registration is $75, which includes some meals. - [Earth Day 2025, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-day-2025-rapid-city/) - Earth Day 2025, Rapid City at Western Dakota Tech, 10 am -4 pm - [Written Comment Deadline SD GFP Commission's March meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comment-deadline-sd-gfp-commissions-march-meeting/) - The written comment deadline for the SD GFP Commission's March meeting is the Sunday night before the Thursday meeting> Comments are due just before midnight CT. The web site to post comments to is: https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. They have a rule change proposal to expand access by hound hunters of mountain lions to public lands on the - [Norbeck Society meeting on “Providing for Birds & Conserving Biodiversity.” Australian speaker](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-meeting-on-providing-for-birds-conserving-biodiversity-australian-speaker/) - Norbeck Society meeting - topic: “ Providing for Birds & Conserving Biodiversity” on Thursday 2/20/25, 5:50 pm MT Jayden Gunn, Central NSW Woodland Birds Project Coordinator, BirdLife Australia will gives the talk This is a hybrid meeting: in person or zoom (link below)! Please join the Norbeck Society for an evening with Jayden Gunn - [SD Izaak Walton League State Division Annual Convention, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-izaak-walton-league-state-division-annual-convention-rapid-city/) - SD Izaak Walton League State Division Annual Convention, Rapid City The Rapid City Chapter of the Izaak Walton League, will be hosting the 2025 SD State Div. Convention on April 25-27 at the Rushmore Inn in downtown Rapid City. They have rooms available at a reasonable discounted rate. Fore more details request the Convention - [Deadline to comment on the proposed listing of the Monarch Butterfly under the ESA](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-the-proposed-listing-of-the-monarch-butterfly-under-the-esa/) - Deadline to comment on the proposed listing of the Monarch Butterfly under the ESA On December 10, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s (FWS) proposed that the monarch butterfly be listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. A 90-day public comment period on the proposal is open until March 12. The final decision - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting Jan 9th-10th, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-jan-9th-10th-2025/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting Jan 9th-10th, 2025, Hybrid meeting > Pierre, Ramkota Convention Center and Zoom Date and Time: January 9, 2025, from 1-5 pm CST | January 10, 2025, from 8 am-12 pm CST Zoom Webinar: Click here to join the meeting Meeting ID: 912 6417 6710 Passcode: 970458 Call In: - [Scoping Comment Deadline Sawbuck Forest Management Project- BHNF - 2/20/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-sawbuck-forest-management-project-bhnf-2-20-25/) - Scoping Comment Deadline Sawbuck Forest Management Project- BHNF - 2/20/25 The Sawbuck Forest Management Project area lies approximately 13 miles west of Hill City, South Dakota. The proposed vegetation management surrounds Pe' Sla. The FS is proposing conifer thinning, timber stand improvement, prescribed fire, planting efforts, as well as enhancements to watersheds, riparian areas, and wildlife - [Deadline for Comments on the North Sand Vegetation Management Preliminary EA - BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-comments-on-the-north-sand-vegetation-management-preliminary-ea-bhnf/) - Deadline for Comments on the North Sand Vegetation Management Preliminary EA - BHNF - 2/20/25 This is located six to ten miles south of Beulah, Wyoming. It is north of the Sand Creek Roadless Area in the Bearlodge Ranger District. For more information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=65540 Additional informa-tion regarding this proposedaction can be obtained fromElizabeth Krueger, ResourcePlanner, at - [Webinar on Keystone Effects of Prairie Dog Ecosystem on Grassland Birds](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-on-keystone-effects-of-prairie-dog-ecosystem-on-grassland-birds/) - Webinar on Keystone Effects of Prairie Dog Ecosystem on Grassland Birds at 12 pm MST For info on webinar: https://plainsconservation.org/keystone-effects-of-prairie-dogs-on-grassland-birds-current-knowledge-and-future-directions/ "Keystone species are central to the ecology and conservation of grassland birds. But although the role of fire and bison has been well-studied, less is known about how prairie dogs affect grassland birds. In this - [Meeting by organizers of referendum on Lawrence County Zoning changes](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meeting-by-organizers-of-referendum-on-lawrence-county-zoning-changes/) - Meeting at which organizers of referendum on Lawrence County Zoning changes (to put Conditional Use Permits (CUPs) under authority of Board of Adjustments, not the Commission) will speak. An informational meeting is being held this Thursday (1/9) at the VFW in Spearfish starting at 5:30pm. The VFW is located at 3102 E Fairgrounds Loop - - [The date the National Audubon Society will announce rules for its' 2025 photography competition](https://phas-wsd.org/event/the-date-the-national-audubon-society-will-announce-rules-for-its-2025-photography-competition/) - This is the date the National Audubon Society will start and also will have announced its' rules for its' 2025 photography competition. The contest is open to photography and video submissions From January 15th until March 5, 2025 at 12 p.m. (noon) U.S. Eastern Time; 11 a.m. CST; 10 a.m. MST; and 9 a.m. PST. - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel 2/15/25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel/) - Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel will be Saturday, February 15th, 2025 from 2:00 to 4:30 pm. It will be a hybrid meeting and a Zoom link offered. This event is co-sponsored by Prairie Hills Audubon Society, Rapid City Chapter of Dakota Rural Action and the Piedmont Valley American Legion Post 311. Legislators from District - [March for Democracy, Rapid City, Rescheduled Date is Jan 25th 10 am-12 pm MT](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-for-democracy-rapid-city-rescheduled-date-is-jan-25th-10-am-12-pm-mt/) - March for Democracy Rescheduled Date is Saturday Jan 25th The March for Democracy, scheduled for previous week was postponed due to weather. It will be held Saturday, Jan 25, at 10am. Meet at the Rapid City Memorial Park band shell at 10am. March begins at 10:15 am MT- approximately 1 mile walk. Signs encouraged, - organizers suggest - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society January 29th, members Zoom Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-january-29th-members-zoom-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) Our members Zoom Meeting January 2025 Wednesday, January 29th, 6:30 pm MT Joshua Lefers and other Audubon Great Plains staff will be talking about National Audubon Society's programs in SD, ND and NE. The Audubon Great Plains staff will update us on National Audubon Society’s (NAS) "working lands” program and National - [Deadline to submit comments to NAS 2025 Photo contest](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-comments-to-nas-2025-photo-contest/) - National Audubon Society has a photography contest every spring, which entry period normally starts some time in January. In 2025 it starts on January 15th, 2025 and may ends March 5th.. https://www.audubon.org/photography/awards/official-contest-rules Mail entries must be postmarked on March 5th, 2025. Entries submitted on-line must be received by 10 am MST - [Public Comments Sought for "Fort Project" on Bearlodge Ranger District](https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-comments-sought-for-fort-project-on-bearlodge-ranger-district/) - Sundance, Wyo., — The Black Hills National Forest is proposing treatments on National Forest land eight miles northwest of Sundance, WY, and eight miles southeast of Huelett, WY through commercial timber harvest, small-tree thinning, mastication, tree planting, watershed improvements, and prescribed fire. The Fort project area includes Blacktail Creek, Lytle Creek, Taylor Divide, Hershey - [Meeting on “How to Use the LRC Website and MyLRC+” - SD Legislative Training](https://phas-wsd.org/event/16497/) - SD Advocacy Network for Women is doing a training series on the SD legislature Did you miss the January 7th video conferencing presentation? Here’s your link to the recording of Betty Oldenkamp’s session on “How to Use the LRC Website and MyLRC+” It is about an hour long. https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/11WzjCEkgh4oAsQYB5xvT666JiA_Qtfqe?usp=drive_link - [Training meeting about the SD Legislature - The 2025 Legislative Calendar](https://phas-wsd.org/event/training-meeting-about-the-sd-legislature-the-2025-legislative-calendar/) - SD Advocacy Network for Women is hosting a series of webinars in January 2025 on how to engage with the legislature Legislative Essentials,-,All you need to know to increase your advocacy impact is at your fingertips in the three-part Legislative Essentials training series. Each session is one hour long and begins at 7:00 PM Central and - [Sierra Club meeting on the 2025 legislative session and environmental bills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sierra-club-meeting-on-the-2025-legislative-session-and-environmental-bills/) - Sierra Club meeting on the 2025 legislative session and environmental bills The Black Hills Group of the South Dakota Sierra Club is hosting a program with Seth Tupper, Editor in Chief of South Dakota Searchlight, at 6 p.m., Thursday, January 23, 2025 at the Outdoor Campus West. Tupper will speak on environment topics in - [March for Democracy, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-for-democracy-rapid-city/) - March for Democracy, January 18th, 10 am -12 am, Meet at the Bandshell in Memorial Park off Fifth St and Omaha, March begins at 10:15 am MT - for about a 1 mile walk Guest Speakers TBA Signs are encouraged - promoters say: "Stand for Something Rather Than Being Against Something" - [Deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for their January 25 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-their-january-25-meeting/) - Sunday night just before midnight CT is the deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for their January 9-10, 2025 meeting. Go to our event calendar for January 9-10 to learn more about the upcoming meeting. The Commission normally meets on the first Thursday of the month, unless holidays interfere (they normally skip - [Deadline to return notarized petitions on referring Lawrence County's Zoning Ordinance's 24-05 Changes](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-return-notarized-petitions-on-referring-lawrence-countys-zoning-ordinances-24-05-changes/) - The 18th of December is the deadline to return the notarized petitions with signatures, to the organizers of petition drive (who will deliver the set to the County). The referendum petition, would refer Lawrence County's recent Zoning Ordinance's 24-05 . Organizers have to return the cluster of notarized petitions to the County by COB on - [Treaty Council Meeting - Oceti Sakourin Treaty Conference](https://phas-wsd.org/event/treaty-council-meeting/) - Oceti Sakourin Treaty Conference Dec 17th-19th, 2024 at the Holiday Inn near the Civic Center, Downtown, Rapid City. For info, Phillip Two Eagles of Rosebud Sioux Tribe is arranging it. (pd2eagle@yahoo.com) https://sicangudata.org/2024_oceti_sakowin_treaty_conference Deadline to reserve rooms at cheaper rate with Holiday Inn, was November 20th, 2024. The official registration fee is $250 Link to the - [Great Backyard Bird Count 2025, Feb. 14th-17th, 2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-backyard-bird-count-2025-feb-14th-17th-2025/) - Great Backyard Bird Count 2025, Feb. 14th-17th, 2025. Watch birds for 15 minutes or more, at least once over the four days, February 14–17, 2025. Identify all the birds you see or hear within your planned time/location and use the best tool for sharing your bird sightings, which can be done digitally. For details visit: https://www.birdcount.org/ There are some community - [Climate Watch Winter Season Jan. 15th-February 15th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-winter-season-jan-15th-february-15th/) - Climate Watch's Winter Season is Jan. 15th-February 15th. This is a National Audubon Society community science project where birders adopt a square and bird in it and send reports to the National Audubon Society. It is designed to collect data on climate change's impacts to certain birds. It happens twice a year in the winter - [Deadline to File Protest on BLM's Decision on Greater Sage Grouse Amendments to RMPs](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-file-protest-on-blms-decision-on-greater-sage-grouse-amendments-to-rmps/) - Deadline to File Protest on BLM's Decision on Greater Sage Grouse Amendments to RMPs Link to the FEIS https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/politics/biden-administration-tightens-sage-grouse-protections-ahead-of-second-trump-term/ar-AA1tKRLm The Federal Register notice ran on November 15, which would mean the protest is due December 15th, which is a Sunday. There is no postal delivery on Sundays so the deadline thus becomes Monday (the Post - [Christmas Bird Counts 2024-2025](https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-counts-2024-2025/) - 125th Annual Christmas Bird Counts 2024-2025 The Christmas Bird Counts (CBCs) run from December 14th to January 5th of every year. This year, in western SD: Rapid City, Sturgis & Pierre CBCs are Dec 14th, Wind Cave & Hot Springs are Dec 15th., Shadehill is Dec. 17th, Bison is Dec. 19th, Badlands is Dec. 27th, - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society's December Meeting on Mining by Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-societys-december-meeting-on-mining-by-zoom/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society's (PHAS) December Meeting will be on mining threats to the area, by Zoom, Lilias's Presentation's Title: 2024 Updates on Exploration/Mining Projects Description: "Things are moving very fast around water and mining issues in the Black Hills. This is your chance to catch up on what's going on at the end of - [Lawrence County Commission 2nd Reading of Ordinance 24-05 - Place CUPs under Board of Adjustment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/lawrence-county-commission-2nd-reading-of-ordinance-24-05/) - Lawrence County Commission 2nd Reading of Ordinance 24-05. - Nov 26th @ 9:15 am. Oppose Lawrence County Commission adopting Ordinance - 24-05. POST MEETING UPDATE: The Lawrence County Commission passed Ordinance 24-05 on Nov 26th. Local citizens are collecting signatures on a petition to refer the decision. Go to our post on Dec 18th, for details - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society December Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-december-board-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) Board Meetings are normally the second Wednesday of the month at 6:30 pm MT, if there will be a quorum of board members. If a quorum will be lacking, we move the date, which then might be the second Thursday or third Wednesday/Thursday. These meetings are open to members and others - [Deadline to Submit written comments to the SDGFP Commission for their Dec meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-the-sdgfp-commission-for-their-dec-meeting/) - Deadline to submit written comments to the SDGFP Commission for their Dec meeting is Sunday night just before midnight CT Agenda of Commission meeting on Dec 5th http://AGENDA https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_-_December_5,_2024_Public_Copy.pdf The Commission normally meets on the first Thursday of the month, unless holidays interfere (they normally skip meeting in August and February ). The written comment - [SD Game Fish and Parks Commission Hybrid meeting - likely in Pierre](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-hybrid-meeting-likely-in-pierre/) - SD Game Fish and Parks Commission Hybrid meeting - in Pierre, December 5th There will be face-to-face and Zoom attendance. Folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm MT in person or by Zoom or phone on rule finalizations and/or at the Open Forum . Visit this web page for more details when - [Water Management Board's December meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-boards-december-meeting/) - Water Management Board's December meeting A meeting is scheduled for the Water Management Board on 12/4/2024 9:30:00 AM CT. Please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal to learn more about past and upcoming meetings! https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/ https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 - [Water Management Board December Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/water-management-board-december-meeting/) - A meeting is scheduled for the Water Management Board on 12/4/2024 9:30:00 AM CT. Please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal to learn more about past and upcoming meetings! https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/ Water Management Board meeting's web page: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 - [SD Mineral and Environment Board's November Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-mineral-and-environment-boards-november-meeting/) - SD Mineral and Environment Board's November Meeting Board of Minerals and Environment Nov 21st, 2024 meeting https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=67 Accepting Wharf's reclamation surety and post closure financial assurance increases & conversion of limestone mines from permits to licenses are on the agenda. AGENDA https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/Agenda November 21 2024.pdf BOARD PACKET is available on the Boards and Commissions - [Scoping Comments Due on Ridgeback Vegetation Management - BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comments-due-on-ridgeback-vegetation-management-bhnf/) - Scoping Comments Due on Ridgeback Vegetation Management - BHNF Mystic Ranger District The BHNF will treat approximately 2,937 acres in an area about 3 miles east of Keystone Download the scoping letter file:///Users/mac/Downloads/Scoping%20Letter%20-%20Ridgeback%20Vegetation%20Managment%20Project.pdf Electronic comments are preferred and must be submitted to the Comment Reviewing Officer online at https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public/Commentlnput?project=67 l l 3. An automated - [PHAS November Board meeting postponed](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-november-board-meeting-postponed/) - PHAS (Prairie Hills Audubon Society) November Board meeting (Nov 13th) is postponed. We normally meet the 2nd Wednesday evening by Zoom, however a quorum could not be confirmed for November 13th so a new date will be chosen - hopefully within 10 days. Members are welcome at PHAS Board meetings, contact Nancy 605-787-6466 or phas.wsd@rapidnet.com - [Deadline to Comment on Mineral Withdrawal for Pactola Area in BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-mineral-withdrawal-for-pactola-area-in-bhnf/) - This was the deadline to Comment on Mineral Withdrawal for Pactola Area in BHNF, however the Forest Service gave us a one week extension and the deadline is now the 28th of October. Prairie Hills Audubon Society supports the proposed mineral withdrawal. Here is a link to Black Hills Clean Water Alliance web page on - [Pactola Rapid Creek Mineral Withdrawal Comment Deadline Extended - New Deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pactola-rapid-creek-mineral-withdrawal-comment-deadline-extended-new-deadline/) - The Forest Service extended their deadline to Monday, October 28th for the Pactola-Rapid Creek Watershed Withdrawal comment period. HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR COMMENT TO THE FOREST SERVICE. Go to this link https://cara.fs2c.usda.gov/Public//CommentInput?Project=63876 Fill out the online form they provide. Include your first and last name, address, etc. Please be sure to say anywhere in your comment, - [Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting-2/) - The Secretary of Agriculture has finally approved the appointments to the Black Hills National Forest Advisory Board. They will have a meeting November 20th, You can see more at this link Black Hills National Forest - Advisory Committees (usda.gov) Times: Begin at 1 p.m. and end no later than 4:30 p.m. Location: Mystic Ranger District Office, 8221 - [Deadline to submit written comments to SD GFP Commission before Nov meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-written-comments-to-sd-gfp-commission-before-nov-meeting/) - Deadline to submit written comments to SD GFP Commission before Nov. meeting. The Commission normally meets on the first Thursday of the month, unless holidays interfere (they normally skip meeting in August and February ). The written comment deadline is midnight of the Sunday before meeting, in the time Zone the meeting happens in, which - [SD Game, Fish and Parks November hybrid meeting - likely in Pierre,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-november-hybrid-meeting-likely-in-pierre/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks November hybrid meeting - likely in Pierre, There will be face-to-face and Zoom attendance. Folks can testify for 3 minutes at 1 pm MT (2 pm CT) in person or by Zoom or phone on rule finalizations and/or at the Open Forum . Visit this web page for more - [Dakota Rural Action Annual Meeting in Sioux Falls Oct 25th-26th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/dakota-rural-action-annual-meeting-in-sioux-falls-oct-25th-26th/) - Dakota Rural Action Annual Meeting in Sioux Falls Oct 25th-26th October 25 @ 1:00 pm - October 26 @ 12:30 pm MDT $45 Dakota Rural Action’s 37th Annual Meeting is being held at the Sioux Falls History Club on October 25th and 26th! For more information: https://www.dakotarural.org/event/37th-annual-meeting-taking-charge-building-together/ Registration: https://secure.everyaction.com/nD6f_bKDh06WlkNIat9vvw2 - [Field Trip on Forestry Basics with Dave Mertz in Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-on-forestry-basics-with-dave-mertz-in-black-hills/) - Friday, October 18, 9:00 a.m. - noon Forestry Basics Field Trip – back by popular demand! with retired BHNF Natural Resource Staff Officer, Dave Mertz Join us for a field trip to learn about Forestry and see examples of prescribed burning, thinning, and overstory removal. This is great opportunity to understand terminology and concepts that guide - [Owl-O-Ween event at the Black Hills Raptor Center Oct 26th afternoon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/owl-o-ween-event-at-the-black-hills-raptor-center-oct-26th-afternoon/) - Register for Owl-O-Ween The Black Hills Raptor Center is proud to present their annual Owl-O-Ween fundraiser on Saturday, Oct. 26! There are a limited number of reservations available between 12-4 pm MT, so please register on our website to join in on the family fun. Here's what the afternoon will include: Trunk-or-treating (a.k.a., lots of - [Black Hills Clean Water Alliance Monthly Virtual Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-clean-water-alliance-monthly-virtual-meeting/) - Black Hills Clean Water Alliance Monthly Meeting, Saturday Oct 12th, morning by Zoom at 10 am We are not sure how long the meeting will last and thus we guessed at 11:30 am for end point Updates will include: Pactola mineral withdrawal Lithium projects Chord uranium project And More! Join BHCWA this Saturday morning to - ["Comment Jam" event for support of Pactola Watershed Mineral Withdrawal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-jam-event-for-support-of-pactola-watershed-mineral-withdrawal/) - "Comment Jam" event for Pactola Watershed Mineral Withdrawal Tuesday, Oct. 8th, Rapid Creek Watershed Action is holding a "Comment Jam" event from 5:30-8pm at Hay Camp Brewing Co. with live music, food, presentations, and tools to help you write and submit a brief comment in support of the withdrawal. More info at rapidcreekwatershed.org - [Forest Service Virtual Meeting on Pactola Withdrawal - eve Oct.7th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/forest-service-meeting-on-pactola-withdrawal/) - Forest Service Meeting on Pactola Withdrawal Prairie Hills Audubon Society supports this withdrawal Pactola Reservoir-Rapid Creek Watershed Withdrawal Public Information Meeting Monday, October 7, 2024 6:30 p.m. MDT The Forest Service will host the virtual public meeting through Microsoft Teams. To join the meeting, click on the following link: Pactola Reservoir-Rapid Creek Watershed Withdrawal – Public - [Deadline for Auditor to receive voter registration to vote on Nov. 5th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-auditor-to-receive-voter-registration-to-vote-on-nov-5th/) - October 21st 5 pm is the deadline for the Auditor of your county to receive your voter registration, if you are not already registered. You can go into the Auditor's office or mail far enough in advance for her/him to receive it on Oct. 21st. The mail has gotten slower now-a-days if it needs to - [Election Day - Vote for candidates and ballot measures - vote NO on Referred Law 21](https://phas-wsd.org/event/election-day-vote-for-candidates-and-ballot-measures-vote-no-on-referred-law-21/) - Election day is Nov 5th REFERRED LAW 21 At our July 2024 Board Meeting, the PHAS Board of Directors endorsed the referendum of Senate Bill 201. We opposed SB 201 during the legislature. The referendum is called Referred Law 21. This is related to the fight in eastern SD over CO2 pipelines and local - [October Game, Fish and Parks Commission Hybrid Meeting in Huron](https://phas-wsd.org/event/october-game-fish-and-parks-commission-hybrid-meeting-in-huron/) - October Game, Fish and Parks Commission Hybrid Meeting in Huron (Huron Events Center,) There will be face-to-face and Zoom attendance. Details on and documents related to the meeting will be published here when close to the meeting date - watch for the Commission Book to be published on Wednesday 10/2/24, This has the public comments - [Norbeck Society Monthly meeting on Outdoor Recreation & Wildland Management,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-monthly-meeting-on-outdoor-recreation-wildland-management/) - Norbeck Society Monthly meeting on Outdoor Recreation & Wildland Management, Thursday, October 24, 6:00 p.m. Norbeck Society Presents: “Fair allocation of recreation resources in an era of increasing demand” an evening Zoom with Dr. Will Rice, Assistant Professor, Outdoor Recreation & Wildland Management, University of Montana. Dr. Will Rice is Assistant Professor of Outdoor Recreation and Wildland Management in - [PHAS meeting - topic - SD Mountain Lions and GFP management plans by Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-meeting-topic-sd-mountain-lions-and-gfp-management-plans-by-zoom/) - PHAS meeting - topic - SD Mountain Lions and SD Game, Fish and Parks management plans for them Wednesday, Sept 25th, 6:30 pm MT by Zoom Nancy Hilding of PHAS and Josh Rosenau of the Mountain Lion Foundation will present topic, other(s) may join as presenters but they are not firmly confirmed. THIS MEETING - [BHNF virtual meeting on Pactola Mineral Withdrawal Environmental Assessment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-virtual-meeting-on-pactola-mineral-withdrawal-environmental-assessment/) - BHNF virtual meeting on Pactola Mineral Withdrawal Environmental Assessment THIS MEETING WAS CANCELLED LAST MINUTE DUE TO TECHNICAL DIFFICULTIES AND WILL BE RESCHEDULED Public Meeting The USDA Forest Service will host a virtual public meeting at 6 p.m. MDT on Wednesday, September 25. The meeting will include a short presentation about the withdrawal application and - [BH Clean Water Alliance's, Rapid Creek Watershed's, Sierra Club Meeting - Mining in Black Hills "Important Meeting"](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bh-clean-water-alliances-and-rapid-creek-watersheds-meeting-mining-in-black-hills-important-meeting/) - BH Clean Water Alliance's, Rapid Creek Watershed's & Sierra Club Meeting - Mining in Black Hills "Important Meeting" September 23rd & pm Monday at Outdoor Campus West (OCW) , Rapid City on Aventure Trail in northwestern side of Rapid City. While the announcement doesn't say this, the Forest Service recently released the NEPA document on - [Forum and Panel Discussion of Referred Law 21, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/forum-and-panel-discussion-of-referred-law-21-rapid-city/) - There is a moderated Public Forum and Panel Discussion of Referred Law 21. It is at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel in the Washington Room. Doors open at 6 pm and Forum is from 6:30 to 8:30 pm MT. This event is sponsored by Citizens for Liberty. See the attached poster for details. At - [Deadline for Written Comments for the SDGFP Commission's Oct. Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-for-the-sdgfp-commissions-oct-meeting/) - Deadline for Written Comments for the SDGFP Commission's Oct. Meeting is just before midnight CT on Sunday Oct 29th We are asking folks to comment in opposition to the draft Mt. Lion Action Plan. They amended the draft plan in Sept to make it worse. Their change will allow annual killing of more lions. They - [Comment Deadline SD Game, Fish and Parks Mt Lion Action Plan (2nd iteration)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-sd-game-fish-and-parks-mt-lion-action-plan-2nd-iteration/) - Comment Deadline to SD Game, Fish and Parks on Draft Mt Lion Action Plan (the revised - 2nd iteration) is Wednesday Sept 25th just before midnight CT. The Oct 2024 revised version of the Mt Lion Action Plan can be found here: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Lion_Action_Plan_Oct2024.pdf At September Commission meeting some Commissioners wanted population objectives lowered, so they - [SD Ornithologist Union's Fall Meeting - in Spearfish at BHSU, Sept 27th-29th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-unions-fall-meeting-in-spearfish-at-bhsu-sept-27th-29th/) - SD Ornithologist Union's Fall Meeting - in Spearfish at BHSU, Sept 27th-29th The meeting will be held on the campus of Black Hills State University, 1200 University Street, Spearfish (see schedule for specific locations). The Friday evening speaker is Ruben Mares talking about "Aspen Restoration on the Northern Hills Ranger District". The banquet keynote is - [National Old-Growth Amendment Comment On-line Workshop on submitting comments to the FS on Old Growth due 9/20/24](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-old-growth-amendment-comment-on-line-workshop-on-submitting-comments-to-the-fs-on-old-growth-due-9-20-24/) - Sept 17th, 6:30 pm Mt - On Line Workshop on submitting comments to the National Forest on Old Growth due 9/20/24 This meeting is passed but a you-tube video recording of it exists - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXPKllTjrmw The U.S. Forest Service has proposed a policy that could reduce the logging and destruction of old-growth trees in national - [Deadline to Comment on Forest Service's DEIS on Old Growth - Amendments to Forest Plans](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-forest-services-deis-on-old-growth-amendments-to-forest-plans/) - The United States Department of Agriculture has prepared a draft environmental impact statement (DEIS) for Amendments to Land Management Plans to Address Old-growth Forests Across the National Forest System. The Forest Service's proposed old-growth amendment amends over 120 land management plans through one analysis and decision. The proposed amendment is intended to provide a consistent - [Black Hills National Forest - Advisory Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting/) - Black Hills National Forest - Advisory Board meeting likely at Mystic Ranger District from 1 pm to 4:30 pm. 9/16/24 - THIS MEETING IS CANCELLED AS THEY WAIT FOR BOARD MEMBERS TO BE APPOINTED BY UPPER LEVELS OF THE FOREST SERVICE. This happens periodically, as the Board has to appointed periodically and it takes a - [Help with Beaver Dam Analog Construction in Northern BHs Saturday, Sept 14th & Sunday 15th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/help-with-beaver-dam-analog-construction-saturday-sept-14th/) - Build like a beaver and restore habitat ------ What? Come play in the creek and help support watershed restoration! Beaver Dam Analogs (BDA) are habitat restoration methods utilizing natural material to simulate a real beaver dam. Beaver dams help clean water, provide fish habitat and support wildlife. Volunteers will be tasked with hammering stakes into - [Information Meeting on Proposed Mining near Custer (F3)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/information-meeting-on-proposed-mining-near-custer-f3/) - Information Meeting on proposed mining near Custer (F3), - the meeting is sponsored by Black Hills Preservation Project, September 18, 2024 7:00 PM MT, Custer High School Auditorium We don't know how long the meeting will last, but have guessed it will end at 9 pm MT For more information contact Gary Placo - (605) 673-2197‬, - [BH's Environmental Coalition quarterly movie - "Biggest Little Farm"](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhs-environmental-coalition-quarterly-movie-biggest-little-farm/) - Biggest Little Farm Movie Screening at the Dahl Friday, September 20, 2024 at 06:00 PM Link: https://www.blackhills.earth/biggest_little_farm_at_the_dahl Social starts at 6pm with music by Shane Skinner and treats for you to enjoy. Music starts at 6pm and the movie begins at 7. The event is free and open to all! "THE BIGGEST LITTLE FARM - [Norbeck Society Annual Meeting Picnic](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-annual-meeting-picnic-2/) - September 8: 12 noon – Norbeck Society annual meeting and potluck picnic Where: The Chalet, 9203 South High Meadows Drive, High Meadows. Directions: From Sturgis Road (Hwy 79), between Black Hawk and Piedmont, on the north edge of Summerset, turn west onto High Meadows Road. Continue up the gravel road keeping right up the hill - [Comment deadline to SDGFP on draft Mountain Lion Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-to-sdgfp-on-draft-mountain-lion-action-plan/) - August 16th is the written comment deadline for SDGFP on their draft Mountain Lion Action Plan, however the Commission will make the decision on it at their Sept 5-6th Commission meeting. There are other later opportunities for written & oral comments associated with that meeting. See also our calendar's notice of July 10th-11th and September - [Deadline to send written Comments to SD GFP Commission for September Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sd-gfp-commission-for-september-meeting/) - Before midnight MT is the deadline to send written Comments to SD GFP Commission for their September Meeting. If folks missed the comment deadlines of August 14th, 16th and 20th on various wildlife action plans, we suggest people still send in comments before this August 1st deadline, as a copy of these comments will still - [SD Game Fish and Parks Commission Sept Hybrid Meeting- Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-hybrid-meeting/) - SD Game Fish and Parks Commission September's Hybrid Meeting is to be in Rapid City, SD More information will be posted here: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/, but normally when closer to the date (maybe the Friday orvMonday before the meeting.) To see rule change proposals or petitions download the Commission Book once published. ========== September 5, 1 p.m. - - [Wild 12 - 1 2 TH W O R L D W I L D E R N ESS CONGRESS - Rapid City, SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wild-12-1-2-th-w-o-r-l-d-w-i-l-d-e-r-n-ess-congress-rapid-city-sd/) - Wild 12 - The 12th World Wilderness Congress, held in Rapid City, both at the Dahl and the "Monument (Civic Center)" here's the link for the event: https://wild.org/wild12/ To download document with information on speakers and schedule (the schedule is on page 18-31) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Bl83-tt0Hc7v6-FVeNeQBMPQ56fw78Fg/view It starts on Sunday the 25th of August at 5 pm - [Bioblitz for counting Bumble bees](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bioblitz-for-counting-bumble-bees/) - Please join other volunteers for the 6th Annual Backyard bumble bee count will take place July 23-August 1, 2024! Each bumble bee record submitted during the Backyard Bumble Bee Count helps researchers learn more about how bumble bees are doing and how to protect them and the environment we share. All observations collected July 23- - [CUP for wind/solar facility west of Badlands NP - Pennington City Planning Com](https://phas-wsd.org/event/cup-for-wind-solar-facility-near-conata-basin-pennington-city-planning-com/) - The review of the CUP application for a wind and solar facility near Conata Basin was continued from July 22nd to August 26th meetings of the Pennington County Planning Commission. We are not yet sure of the time the CUP will be on the agenda, but we assume the meeting starts at 9 am. - [Pennington County Planning Commission hearing on Wind/Solar Farm west of Badlands NP](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-planning-commission-hearing-on-wind-solar-farm-near-conata-basin/) - Pennington County Planning Commissioners Meeting Monday, July 22 at 9:00 am Pennington County Administration Building in the Commissioners Meeting Room Downstairs 130 Kansas City Street The people that own the old Lemley Ranch are wanting to put in a wind and solar farm south of Buzz Johnson’s and on Highway 44 northwest and west of - [He Sapa Tribal Mining Summit](https://phas-wsd.org/event/he-sapa-tribal-mining-summit/) - He Sapa Tribal Mining - Protecting the Black Hills From Mining - Summit The basic information is that it's on August 20 - 22 at Storm Mountain Retreat Center near Rockerville. More details are pending. We are just guessing at the time-of-day for the event. Check Black Hills Clean Water Alliance web site or facebook - [Deadline to comment on SDGFP's draft Antelope Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sdgfps-draft-antelope-action-plan/) - Deadline 8/14/24 to comment on SDGFP's draft Antelope Action Plan Pronghorn Antelope Action Plan South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on a draft Pronghorn Antelope Action Plan. The draft Pronghorn Antelope Action plan, 2024-2028, is a document that will be used by GFP to guide pronghorn antelope management in South Dakota - [Deadline to comment on SDGFP's species list for revision of Wildlife Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sdgfs-species-list-for-revision-of-wildlife-action-plan/) - Wildlife Action Plan South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on a draft species list associated with the South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan. The South Dakota Wildlife Action Plan was last updated in 2015 and is revised every 10 years. This strategic planning document is designed to address the needs of South - [Tree protection event, beaver/human conflict mitigation, Rapid City,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/tree-protection-event-beaver-human-conflict-mitigation-rapid-city/) - Tree damage mitigation along Rapid Creek in Rapid City, Event sponsored by Black Hills Fly Fishers (BHFF) Join BHFF July 27th to paint trees with sandy paint to deter beaver from killing specific trees. This is for mitigation of beaver/human conflicts and also habitat restoration. Civic Center parking lot, east side. 9am. For info: blackhillsflyfishers@gmail.com - [Beaver dam analog building project, northern Black Hills -](https://phas-wsd.org/event/beaver-dam-analog-building-project-northern-black-hills/) - Saturday and Sunday, July 20-21st. Join Black Hills Fly Fishers to help build beaver dam analogs in Silver Creek. Join for for as many hours/days as you can. Some volunteers plan on camping up at Silver Creek Saturday night to work both days. BDA is an acronym for Beaver Dam Analog, a habitat restoration method - [Comment Deadline, BHNF Vegetation Management Project, Antelope Canyon](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-bhnf-vegetation-management-project-antelope-canyon/) - Decision Memo was signed on July 11th, 8 days after close of comment period. file:///Users/mac/Downloads/Decision_Memo_Signed_AntelopeCanyon20240711.pdf Quotes from FS scoping packet: "The Antelope Canyon project area is located approximately 15 miles south of the city of Custer, SD, and 7 miles northwest of Hot Springs, SD. The eastern boundary of the project area borders Wind Cave - [Meeting on F3 Gold Exploration near Custer](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meeting-on-f3-gold-exploration-near-custer/) - There is a meeting arranged by opponents of F3 Gold Exploration, near Custer SD. The exploration has been approved - the Forest Service issued a Decision Memo to approve exploration, in later June 2024 and the exploration will occur on Forest Service lands The meeting is at 5:30 pm at the Custer Library. We actually - [Black Hills National Forest - Advisory Board Meeting - CANCELLED](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-advisory-board/) - Black Hills National Forest - Advisory Board July 2024 meeting IS CANCELLED It likely would have been at Mystic Ranger District from 1 pm to 4:30 pm. New terms for NFAB members have begun, but the members have not yet been appointed for new term. Check for updates: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114550 - [SD Game, Fish and Parks July Hybrid Commission Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-july-commission-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's July Meeting is in Sioux Falls, Thursday-Friday, July 11-12th, 2024, at Good Earth State Park, Results - Mt Lions: The GFP staff presented the Draft Mt. Lion Action Plan and a powerpoint about their mt. lion public opinion survey. The draft Action Plan did not change the population objective - [Nebraska Game and Parks Commission June 20-21st, 2024 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-game-and-parks-commission-june-20-21st-2024-meeting/) - Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has a June 20-21st 2024 meeting at Ogallala RESULTS: https://outdoornebraska.gov/about/press-events/news/commissioners-approve-a-2025-mountain-lion-season/ Meeting at Petrified Wood Gallery, 418 E 1st St.,Ogallala, NE, 69153 Visit this web site when close to the date for the agenda. At this site the Commission agenda is posted online before each meeting. and minutes from previous meetings - [Deadline to comment on SD ambient air quality monitoring plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-sd-ambient-air-quality-monitoring-plan/) - DANR develops an annual ambient air monitoring network plan which is a review of the ambient air monitoring network each year. The 2024 Annual Plan is open for public comment through June 22, 2024. Link to proposed Ambient Air Monitoring Annual plan, https://danr.sd.gov/Environment/AirQuality/AirMonitoring/docs/Annual%20Plan%202024.pdf Link to submit comments https://danr.sd.gov/public/comment.aspx?d_comment=06/22/2024&name=South%20Dakota%27s%202024%20Ambient%20Air%20Monitoring%20Annual%20Plan&pntype=aq_nplan&description=DANR%20develops%20an%20annual%20ambient%20air%20monitoring%20network%20plan%20which%20is%20a%20review%20of%20the%20ambient%20air%20monitoring%20network%20each%20year.%20%20The%202024%20Annual%20Plan%20is%20open%20for%20public%20comment%20through%20June%2022,%202024. We are not sure of the time - [Elaine Ebbert Wonder-Crawl at Dugout Gulch, BHNF, Wyoming, a tributary east of Sand Creek](https://phas-wsd.org/event/elaine-ebbert-wonder-crawl-at-dugout-gulch-bhnf-wyoming-a-tributary-east-of-sand-creek/) - This is an annual Norbeck Society event - the 15th year it happens. June 29th. 9:30 am Prepare for several hours of easy walking with many stops. Bring your own snacks, lunch, and beverages, sunscreen, good hiking footwear, and plant books. Distance 1 – 5 miles. No dogs please. Dugout Gulch is a Black Hills - [Deadline to Vote for the Norbeck Society in Thriving Communities Initiative poll](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-vote-for-the-norbeck-society-in-thriving-communities-initiative-poll/) - The Deadline is before July 1st. Norbeck Society friends and members are strongly encouraged to go to Thriving Communities Initiative - Black Hills Area Community Foundation (bhacf.org) and vote for “Beautiful Black Hills” which, if chosen, gives the Norbeck Society an avenue to pursue a grant. The Norbeck Society steering committee has met with the - [Deadline to comment on BLM's greater sage grouse RMP amendment's DEIS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-blms-greater-sage-grouse-rmp-amendments-deis/) - Deadline to comment on BLM's greater sage grouse RMP amendment's DEIS (3 volumes) is June 13th, 2024. They are giving us 90 days. The time of day deadline is mountain time, just before midnight on the 13th. Watch for updates on the time zone the midnight deadline will fall in. The US Geological Survey found - [June 10th, PHAS meeting on the BLM's proposed amendments to their RMPs for greater sage grouse](https://phas-wsd.org/event/june-10th-phas-meeting-on-the-blms-proposed-amendments-to-their-rmps-for-greater-sage-grouse/) - Monday, June 10th, 6:30 pm MT by Zoom, PHAS meeting on the BLM's proposed amendments to their Resource Management Plans for the greater sage grouse. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9yRmVON3VPU0dRZz09 Meeting ID: 854 3392 0233 Passcode: 534620 --- PHAS meetings are recorded and the link to the meeting recordings are posted to our recordings web page, normally - [Meade County Commission reconsiders the Meade County Comprehensive Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-commission-reconsiders-the-meade-county-comprehensive-plan/) - Meade County Commission will reconsider the Meade County Comprehensive Plan with a hearing before the County Commission at at 10 am Tuesday June 11th. Nancy Hilding for PHAS attended the 6/3/24 hearing before the Planning Commission and testified to failure to having goals and policies to protect historic and cultural properties, in its' land use Goals - [BHNF Seeking Public Comments on Davis Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-seeking-public-comments-on-davis-hazardous-fuels-reduction-project/) - Sundance, WY, May 10, 2024 – The Black Hills National Forest is proposing to reduce fire hazard in the Moskee area of the Black Hills in Crook County, WY. High fuel loading in this area poses a risk to surrounding lands and communities. The Forest Service is proposing to treat up to 1,304 acres - [Deadline to Comment on BHNF Zeppelin Forest Health Project Draft Environmental Assesment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-bhnf-zeppelin-forest-health-project-draft-environmental-assesment/) - The Black Hills National Forest, Northern Hills Ranger District (NHRD), has announced the availability of the draft environmental assessment (EA) for the Zeppelin Forest Health Project (Zeppelin Project), located west of Piedmont, SD, north of Dalton Lake, east of Vanocker Canyon Highway, and south of Elk Creek. You can view the draft EA on the - [Deadline for petitions contesting the BME recommendation on bentonite mine - Bentonite Performance Minerals, LLC](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-petitions-contesting-the-bme-recommendation-on-bentonite-mine-bentonite-performance-minerals-llc/) - Quote from DANR public notice: https://danr.sd.gov/Press/docs/publicnotices/MineralsMining/BPMSecurityNOF2.pdf "Bentonite Performance Minerals, LLC, 554 US Highway 212, Belle Fourche, South Dakota 57717, hereby gives notice that an application for a permit to mine bentonite has been filed with the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources for its proposed Security Project. ... The application is available for review - [Wharf Ground Water Discharge Plan Renewal and Water Quality Variance review- Intervenor filing deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wharf-ground-water-discharge-plan-renewal-and-water-quality-variance-review-intervenor-filing-deadline/) - Wharf Ground Water Discharge Plan Renewal and Water Quality Variance review- Intervenor filing deadline Wharf Ross Valley Ground Water Discharge Plan Renewal and Water Quality Variance review. Lawrence County 6/17/2024 Quote from DANR: "Any interested person may file a petition to initiate a contested case and request a hearing on the Ground Water Discharge Plan renewal - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission June Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-june-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's June Hybrid Meeting - June 6th-7th 2024, in Yankton, at the NFAA Easton Yankton Archery Center SDGFP Commission continued with its' normal meeting policies, -- folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm CT in person or by Zoom or phone. Visit this web page closer to the - [Documentary shown - "On Common Ground"](https://phas-wsd.org/event/documentary-shown-on-common-ground/) - Documentary shown - "On Common Ground" at the Dahl Fine Arts Center, Rapid City, This movie is a screening of a new documentary about regenerative farming. Event presented by Isaak Walton League, supported by Citizen's Climate Lobby, Black Hills Environmental Protection. Social at 6 pm, movie at 7 pm MT. We are not sure how - [South Dakota Wildlife Federation Annual Board Meeting, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-wildlife-federation-annual-board-meeting-rapid-city/) - South Dakota Wildlife Federation (SDWF) Annual Board Meeting, Rapid City Saturday Aug 17th Saturday night there will be a banquet and small auction. All SDWF or Black Hills Sportsmen (BHSM ) members are free to attend, The door will open at 6pm at the Hilton Garden Inn. There will be door prizes and conservation awards will - [Review of Meade County Draft Comprehensive Plan by Meade Planning Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/review-of-meade-county-draft-comprehensive-plan-by-meade-planning-commission/) - Review of Meade County Draft Comprehensive Plan by Planning Commission, Monday June 3rd, 2024, - a public hearing at 2 pm at the Meade County Office Building (Erskine Bldg) on 1300 Sherman St. In the earlier spring (April 1st, 2024) , the Planning Commission moved forward a Draft Comprehensive Plan to the Meade County Commission - [Annual Great Plains Conservation Network Meeting & Tour of Southern Plains Land Trust - Colorado](https://phas-wsd.org/event/annual-great-plains-conservation-network-meeting-tour-of-southern-plains-land-trust-colorado/) - This year’s annual GPCN Steering Committee Meeting will take place on June 20-21 at Heartland Ranch in southeastern Colorado. Heartland is a 43,000-acre nature preserve protected by the Southern Plains Land Trust (SPLT). Located 35 miles southwest of Lamar in Bent County, Heartland is home to a growing conservation herd of American bison, as well - [Deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission June 2024 Meeting - Act to Protect Raccoons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-june-meeting/) - Midnight CT is the deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission June 2024 Meeting - Act to Protect Raccoons Sunday June 2nd at just before Midnight CT is the deadline to send written comments in to SDGFP for inclusion in the public record of the meeting. If comments are late they go into the - [National Trails Day - June 1st, Saturday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-trails-day-june-1st-saturday/) - National Trails Day - is June 1st, Saturday, Many NGOs or state and federal agencies are sponsoring hiking events nationwide. At this web page you can search for an event near you: https://americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/find-an-event/ It finds 6 hikes within 50 miles and 7 hikes within 100 miles of Rapid City We assume there may be some - [Native Plant Road Show - by SDSU Native Plant Initiative - Spearfish](https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-plant-road-show-by-sdsu-native-plant-initiative/) - Plant sale event to be held Saturday, June 1, 10 am-3pm at The Snapper's Club in Spearfish, courtesy of Beautify Spearfish. Native plants will be sold. (sales via cash or check only) - [Native Plant Road Show, Courtesy of SDSU Native Plant Initiative - Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-plant-road-show-courtesy-of-sdsu-native-plant-initiative-rapid-city/) - Native Plant Road Show, Courtesy of SDSU Native Plant Initiative - Rapid City Sunday, June 2, 10 am - 2 pm at Jolly Lane Greenhouse, Rapid City Native plants will be sold. On Saturday 6/1/24, they will be in Spearfish - [SD Ornithologist Union's Spring Meeting - Custer, SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-unions-spring-meeting-custer-sd/) - SD Ornithologist Union's Spring Meeting - Custer, SD Custer SD May 31-June 2, 2024, All gatherings will be at the Custer County Annex Building*, 447 Crook St. Custer SD, in the Pine room. For more information: https://sdou.org/SDOU/NextMeeting.aspx Friday evening 5 pm- 7 pm registration/social then: 7pm-8 pm Friday with a presentation ( by well known - [Comments due > increase cougar harvest limits - western Wyoming](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-increase-cougar-harvest-limits-western-wyoming/) - Changes to Wyoming's cougar hunting are proposed: Wyoming is supposed to change its' mountain lion hunting seasons every 3 years, which it last did in 2022, however 1 year later it is proposing changes, which are off cycle. Wyoming is now proposing a significant increase in hunting, in four - [Deadline to Comment on Nebraska Game and Parks proposed rule changes to Mt. Lion season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-nebraska-game-and-parks-proposed-rule-changes-to-mt-lion-season/) - Wednesday June 19th, at 1 pm CT, is the deadline to submit written comments on Nebraska Game and Park's proposed rule changes to its' mt. lion seasons in Pine Ridge, Niobrara and Wildcat Hills Units. Go to our events calendar web page for Thursday June 20- Friday 21 for more information. Thursday/Friday are the dates - [Comment Deadline on Furbearer Season (mountain lions & beaver), ND](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-furbearer-season-mountain-lions-beaver-nd/) - There is actually no specific day for the deadline to comment to ND on their furbearer regulations except - "late June", so I just picked June 25th, for late June. The Department sends recommendations to the Governor who issues a proclamation about the hunting seasons in mid July. ND has a 365 day (year long) - [SD Game Fish and Parks May Commission meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-meeting-2/) - At the SDGFP Commission meeting on May 2nd, 2024. We submitted 3 petitions for rule making , these were rejected. Here is an Argus Leader Article about that: https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/might-south-dakota-beavers-receive-some-protections/ar-AA1o43Yx We will right more about what other thins happened later. ================================ SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's May Meeting was in Custer State Park, Thursday-Friday, May - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission December Hybrid Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-december-hybrid-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission December Hybrid Meeting, likely in Pierre There will be face-to-face and Zoom attendance. Folks can testify for 3 minutes at 1 pm MT in person or by Zoom or phone on rule finalizations and/or at the Open Forum . Visit this web page for more details when close - [Mt Lion Networking Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/mt-lion-networking-meeting/) - This "Mt Lion Networking Meeting" is a limited attendance meeting. If you are a volunteer of an environmental or animal welfare group, or want to be such & want to be working to protect & recover mountain lions in SD - contact Nancy Hilding of Prairie Hills Audubon Society & ask for an invitation to - [Open House by the Great Plains Plant Society in Hermosa](https://phas-wsd.org/event/open-house-by-the-great-plains-plant-society-in-hermosa/) - Open House by the Great Plains Plant Society in Hermosa at their botanical garden Friday & Saturday - June 7 & 8, 9:am–4:pm Great Plains Botanic Garden is a short distance east of Hwy 79 five miles south of Hermosa SD. The physical address is 14229 Windbreak Road, Hermosa, SD. From Hwy 79 go five - [Great Plains Native Plant Society Field Trip Bear Butte/Ft. Meade Area](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-plains-native-plant-society-field-trip-bear-butte-ft-meade-area/) - Great Plains Native Plant Society Field Trip Bear Butte/Ft. Meade Area Participants will see most of the plants within the Bear Butte Historic Preserve, which contains a part of the grounds of the historic Ft. Meade that is currently being archeologically documented. After an introductory presentation by Ross Lamphere of the BBCHP Association, our member - [Great Plains Native Plant Society Annual Meeting - Hermosa](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-plains-native-plant-society-annual-meeting-hermosa/) - Great Plains Native Plant Society Annual Meeting - Hermosa For more information: https://www.gpnps.org/events.php RSVP by May 13 Trip leader: Cindy Reed 605-890-0150 c.reed@gpnps.org - [Black Hills National Forest - Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting-3/) - Black Hills National Forest - Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting, 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – May 15, 2024 Location: Mystic Ranger District Office, 8221 Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 Agenda - https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1175302.pdf Current NFAB members - https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1039321.pdf Meetings: Meetings are open to the Public. The agenda will include time for people to make oral - [Endangered Species Day Celebration - 2024](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-celebration-2024/) - Above photo is of Noreen, who is one of three cloned black footed ferrets, photo taken by Kika Tuff Endangered 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 - [Endangered Species Week Chalk drawing competition](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-week-chalk-drawing-competition/) - Endangered Species Week Chalk drawing competition The competition will occur from Saturday, May 11th, 2024 to Sunday, May 19th. Friday, May 17th is Endangered Species Day In honor of Endangered Species Day, Endangered Species Coalition is holding a nationwide, all-ages chalk art competition that anyone can participate in, from wherever you live. This event will - [Comments due on Davis Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project, BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-davis-hazardous-fuels-reduction-project-bhnf/) - Comments due on Davis Hazardous Fuels Reduction Project, BHNF A new project is proposed on the Black Hills National Forest in northeastern Wyoming. The project is in the Moskee and Grand Canyon areas of the Bearlodge Ranger District. The Davis Hazardous Fuels Reduction project includes pine thinning and mechanical and manual fuel reduction. Project - [Climate Watch, Spring/Summer season 5/15/24-6/15/24](https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-spring-summer-season/) - Climate Watch is Audubon’s biannual community science program that enlists volunteer bird-lovers across North America to tally for twelve target bird species Climate Watch – Summer Season – May 15th-June 15th, 2024 Climate Watch Climate Watch is sponsored by the National Audubon Society (NAS) & takes place during two distinct seasons—winter (January 15-February 15) and summer (May - [Migratory Bird Day](https://phas-wsd.org/event/migratory-bird-day/) - Migratory Bird Day - May 11, 2024 This year Migratory Bird Day will be in both the spring and fall - see also October 12th, 2024 This year’s theme is “Protect Insects, Protect Birds.” From the cornucopia of caterpillars that nourish young chicks in the spring to the droves of winged insects that supply valuable - [Norbeck Society Zoom Meeting on American Goshawk in the Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-zoom-meeting-on-american-goshawk-in-the-black-hills/) - Thursday, May 9, 6:00: Join Norbeck Society for a Public Zoom meeting. Norbeck Presents an evening with Patricia Kennedy, Jason Bruggeman & David Anderson: “Declining American Goshawk nest site habitat suitability in the Black Hills National Forest.” Their peer-reviewed research was published recently in the Journal of Raptor Research. https://raptorresearchfoundation.org/publications/ You may read the researchers’ - [Comment Deadline extended on USFWS rule changes to ensure BIDEH on their Refuges](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-extended-on-usfws-rule-changes-to-ensure-bideh-on-their-refuges/) - Comment deadline extended 60 days, on USFWS proposed rule changes to ensure that the biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health (BIDEH) of the National Wildlife Refuge System (Refuge System) are maintained, and where appropriate, restored and enhanced, in accordance with the National Wildlife Refuge System Improvement Act of 1997. For more information: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/03/05/2024-04583/national-wildlife-refuge-system-biological-integrity-diversity-and-environmental-health-extension-of Blog post - [La Creek National Wildlife Refuge Annual Fieldtrip](https://phas-wsd.org/event/la-creek-national-wildlife-refuge-annual-fieldtrip/) - La Creek National Wildlife Refuge Annual Field trip Every year we jointly sponsor a field trip to the La Creek National Wildlife Refuge with the Sierra Club on either the first or second Saturday in May. Folks car pool in Rapid City in the early morning of Saturday May 4th from 7:30-8:00 am MT, leaving - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-board-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society Board Meetings are normally the second Wednesday of the month in the evening by Zoom. They tend to start at 6 or 6:30 pm MT. Exact start time will be chosen closer to the date. They are open to Prairie Hills Audubon Society's members and others by invitation. Contact Nancy Hilding - [SD Water Management Board May 2024 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-may-2024-meeting/) - A meeting is scheduled for the SD Water Management Board on 5/8/2024 9:30:00 AM CT. To learn more about past and upcoming meetings please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/ For 5/8/24 meeting visit: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 Agenda - https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202405Agenda1%20(1).pdf Live audio of the meeting is available at https://www.sd.net - [Meade County Commission Hearing on Comprehensive Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-commission-hearing-on-comprehensive-plan/) - County Commissioner will have the public hearing on Tuesday, May 14, 2024, at 10:00am at the Meade County Commission room to consider adoption of the Meade County Comprehensive Plan. The purpose of the public hearing is to accept public comments on the proposed comprehensive plan. Written comments meant for all Commissioners can be sent to rhea crane - [BLM Virtual Meeting on DEISs on Greater Sage Grouse Management](https://phas-wsd.org/event/blm-virtual-meeting-on-deiss-on-greater-sage-grouse-management/) - BLM will host 13 public meetings to present information and answer questions on the draft environmental impact statement and proposed alternatives for strengthening conservation of greater sage-grouse on public lands. https://www.blm.gov/announcement/april-2024-blm-hold-virtual-and-person-public-meetings-greater-sage-grouse-management BLM will hold two virtual meetings online on >>>Tuesday, April 9 at 1 p.m. MDT and Thursday, April 25 at 6 p.m. MDT. Register for one - [Native American Fish and Wildlife Society, Great Plains Regional Conference](https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-american-fish-and-wildlife-society-great-plains-regional-conference-2/) - Native American Fish & Wildlife Society Great Plains Regional Conference April 17-18, 2024 Big Horn Resort – Billings, MT Non-member $200.00 (Includes $ 50.00 Membership Fee) Current Member (Tribe and Individual) Registration Fee: $150.00 https://www.nafws.org/product/2024-great-plains-regional-conference/ Agenda - https://www.nafws.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Great-Plains-Agenda-2024-4.3.pdf - [Bear Butte Forum 2024](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bear-butte-forum-2024/) - Bear Butte Forum is an annual meeting between SDGFP staff from Bear Butte State Park and Native American folks to discuss the management of the state park. Bear Butte is a sacred site for many Native American Tribes. It will be April 27th, 2024. Non-native people are welcome to come. It is traditionally held - [Izaak Walton League's SD Division Annual Meeting, in North Sioux City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/izaak-walton-leagues-sd-division-annual-meeting-in-north-sioux-city/) - Izaak Walton League's SD Division Annual Meeting, in North Sioux City We are not yet sure of the exact start and end times, but the meetings normally run from a social on Friday night to Sunday afternoon lunch, Some meals severed. Registration is normally required, see Kelly J. Kistner, IWLA SD Division President, kelly_kistner@hotmail.com April 26, 27, - [Scoping comments on North Sand Vegetation Management Project (near Sand Creek Roadless area)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comments-on-north-sand-vegetation-management-project-near-sand-creek-roadless-area/) - Opportunity for public comment would be due on April 27 but that is a Saturday so they are actually on due Monday the 29th: North Sand Vegetation Management: Black Hills National Forest - Projects (usda.gov) https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/folder/246546688222 Map: https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/file/1474922331799 It is in the Bearlodge Ranger District along Sand Creek and near Dugout Gulch. This beautiful area is - [Earth-day Movie - Purple Mountains](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-day-movie-purple-mountain/) - Earth-day Movie - "Purple Mountains" a 53 minute film on "one man's journey to find common ground in the Mountains, one voter at a time" - for more info: https://www.purplemountainsfilm.com/ Dahl Fine Arts Center, Rapid City Social hour 6-7 pm MT Film starts at 7 pm Sponsored by Citizen's Climate Lobby, several groups & schools will - [Comment deadline on Deer, Bobcat and Pheasant Management Action Plans, SDGFP](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-deer-bobcat-and-pheasant-management-action-plans-sdgfp/) - Comment deadline on Deer, Bobcat and Pheasant Management Action Plans, SDGFP. It says the deadline is April 19th, without a time-of-day note, so we assume that is just before midnight CT on 4/19/24, but we will check with SDGFP to verify that time-of-day end point. Public notice: https://gfp.sd.gov/news/detail/1599/ South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) - [Hearing on Draft Comprehensive Plan for Meade County, Meade County Planning Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/review-of-draft-comprehensive-plan-for-meade-county-meade-county-planning-commission/) - Hearing on Draft Comprehensive Plan for Meade County, Meade County Planning Commission, Monday, April 1st 2024 The Planning Commission Public Hearing is scheduled for: Monday, April 1, 2024 at 3:00pm Meade County Commission Room (1300 Sherman St. Sturgis, SD) (605) 347-3818 Link to download draft plan: https://static1.squarespace.com/static/61a79945f91fb63fe590c49d/t/65a1a8fe3c94fc49094d6cc6/1705093383152/Meade+County+Draft+01-11-2024+2.0.pdf Planning Commission 4/1/24 Agenda should be on this - [Scoping Comments due date for Mitchell Dam project, BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-due-date-on-scoping-comments-for-mitchell-dam-project-bhnf/) - April 1st, scoping comments are due for Mitchell Dam project, Black Hills National Forest (BHNF). Scoping deadlines are a little flexible, if you miss the deadline date, you can still send them in late (but do that ASAP). They hope to make a decision by May 1st. The proposed project is to either decommission (remove) - [Oral Arguments before SD Supreme Court on the dispute about DANR permitting waste water dumping in French Creek](https://phas-wsd.org/event/oral-arguments-before-sd-supreme-court-on-the-dispute-about-danr-permitting-waste-water-dumping-in-french-creek/) - Oral Arguments before SD Supreme Court on the dispute from local landowners over DANR permitting waste water dumping in French Creek. Case number is - Appeal No. 30495. Oral argument has been set for April 25th at 9:45 a.m. (CT). We are not sure how long the hearing will last. They broadcast live audio of - [PHAS's March Members Meeting on Osprey and American Dipper in the Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phass-march-members-meeting-on-osprey-and-american-dipper-in-the-black-hills/) - PHAS's March Members Meeting will be on beaver dam analogs in the Black Hills National Forest. A Black Hills National Forest employees (Melissa Dempsey and Matt Scott) will join us and tell us about volunteer help they need with building beaver dam analogs (imitation beaver dams) in the northern Hills. SD Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) - [Deadline to submit Initiative and Constitutional Amendment petitions to SD SOS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-initiative-and-constitutional-amendment-petitions-to-sd-sos/) - Deadline to submit Initiative and Constitutional Amendment petitions to SD SOS in Pierre, on May 7th, 5 pm CT. For info: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/ballot-question-information/default.aspx Potential Ballot Questions 2024: https://sdsos.gov/elections-voting/upcoming-elections/general-information/2024/2024-ballot-questions.aspx - [March Forest Service Advisory Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting/) - March Forest Service Advisory Board meeting Forest Service Office – Mystic Ranger District Office 8221Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – March 20, 2024 Time Agenda items include; Legislative Updates – Federal and State Length of Stay on Forest Mitchell Dam Project BHNF Forest Plan Revision For more information: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114550 - [2024 Western SD Hydrology Conference](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2024-western-sd-hydrology-conference/) - 2024 Western SD Hydrology Conference - Thursday 4/18/24 at the Monument in Rapid City. Contact Galen Hoogestraat for more information- ghoogest@usgs.gov - Registration is open for the 2024 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference held April 18, 2024 at the Monument in Rapid City. A preliminary program (agenda) is.... posted on the conference registration website: REGISTER - [Some Municipal and School Board elections in SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/some-municipal-and-school-board-elections-in-sd/) - Some municipal and school board elections in SD will occur on this day (4/9/24) others can occur on the primary day in June - first Tuesday after the first Monday (Tuesday 6/4/24) or on third Tuesday in June (Tuesday 6/18/24). The cities/school boards have a choice of 3 dates, but most choose the first - [Deadline for candidates to submit some candidate nominating petitions in SD](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-candidates-to-submit-candidate-nominating-petitions/) - March 26th is the deadline for candidates for election to statewide offices, county offices & some municipal and school board elections to submit candidate nominating petitions. Municipalities and school boards can select from 3 options for election dates and thus can have one of three candidate nominating petition submission deadlines. Go to the SD Secretary - [Public meeting on Mitchell Dam Project in Hill City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-meeting-on-mitchell-dam-project-in-hill-city/) - Public meeting on Mitchell Dam Project at the Community Center in Hill City, March 13th 6-8pm https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD1166271 The Black Hills National Forest is proposing a project to address the deferred maintenance of the dam at Mitchell Lake, located on Spring Creek just east of Hill City along Highway 16. The project is called the - [Deadline for objections to Spruce Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-objections-to-spruce-project/) - Deadline for objections to Spruce Project of the Black Hills National Forest. To download documents: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61599 Spruce Vegetation Management Project “A project to treat mixed conifer stands across the Black Hills National Forest System lands with the objective of increasing overall forest resiliency and reducing undesirable fire behavior." "Objections, including attachments, must be addressed - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission's March Hybrid Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commissions-march-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's March Meeting is in Pierre, Thursday-Friday, March 7-8th 2024, at Missouri River Events Center. SDGFP Commission continues in 2024 with its' normal meeting policies from 2023, -- folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm CT in person or by Zoom or phone. Visit this web page close - [World Water Day 2024 Celebration in Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-2024-celebration-in-rapid-city/) - World Water Day's (WWD) 2024’s THEME IS “Water for Peace.” "Water can create peace or spark conflict. When water is scarce or polluted, or when people have unequal, or no access, tensions can rise between communities and countries." – United Nations March 23 from 1-4 pm (MT) at Aby’s on 406 5th, St. in Rapid - [Deadline to comment on Draft 2024 SD Integrated Report for Surface Water Quality Assessment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-draft-2024-sd-integrated-report-for-surface-water-quality-assessment/) - March 5th is the deadline to comment on Draft 2024 SD Integrated Report for Surface Water Quality Assessment (Integrated Report), See Dept. Of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) notice page at https://danr.sd.gov/public/ Public notice on this deadline is here https://danr.sd.gov/officeofwater/surfacewaterquality/pn/2024IR_PNLetter.pdf The Integrated Report is required under the federal Clean Water Act. This report combines the - [Rapid City Chapter, Izaak Walton League, hybrid membership meeting on legislature and Missouri River](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-chapter-izaak-walton-league-hybrid-membership-meeting-on-legislature-and-missouri-river/) - Paul Lepisto is the guest speaker at the Rapid City Chapter, Izaak Walton League (Ikes), membership meeting, 6:30 pm Wednesday 3/6/24 at Outdoor Campus West . Paul is the Ikes representative for the Missouri River Initiative (MRI) panel and also the SD Division's lobbyist. Paul will give the Ikes a rundown on what his roll - [Written Comments due to SDGFP Commission Sunday before their March meeting.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/written-comments-due-to-sdgfp-commission-before-their-march-meeting/) - The deadline to send in written Comments to the SDGFP Commission before their March Meeting is just before midnight CT on Sunday night. You can still attend remotely and testify by Zoom on Thursday 3/7/24 or send comments to them individually. But to get them in the public record, you need to send about 3.5 - [Grant deadline for Chapter Grant Applications to be submitted to NAS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/grant-deadline-for-chapter-grant-applications-to-be-submitted-to-nas/) - PHAS can apply for grants to the National Audubon Society for projects ranging in award from $1,000-$15,000 dollars. Projects must meet various terms and goals set by the National Audubon Society. If any one has an ideas for a project they want to volunteer to work on, that needs money...contact a board member of PHAS - [Comment deadline to USFWS on the proposed biological integrity, diversity, and environmental health (BIDEH) rules of our national wildlife refuges](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-usfws-proposed-rule-about-predator-hunting-other-issues-on-wildlife-refuges/) - March 4th is the deadline to submit comments on USFWS proposed rule about predator hunting and other issues on National Wildlife Refuges. We assume comments must be posted on-line just before 10 pm MT, or midnight CT. Or if sending by postal mail, postmarked on 3/4/24. For the federal register notice ... https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2024/02/02/2024-02076/national-wildlife-refuge-system-biological-integrity-diversity-and-environmental-health Quotes from - [SD Water Management Board March Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-march-meeting/) - A meeting is scheduled for the Water Management Board on 3/6/2024 9:30:00 AM. Please visit the Boards and Commissions Portal to learn more about past and upcoming meetings! (3/6/2024, 8:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Agenda: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/3.6.2024%20WMB%20Agenda.pdf https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/ live audio: https://www.sd.net/mtc/ Includes Appointment of Rapid Valley Water Master – Nakaila Steen Includes: Consider Water Permit - [2024 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2024-black-hills-area-botany-ecology-workshop/) - The 2024 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop will be Friday, March 1, 2024, at the Outdoor Campus West in Rapid City, SD. Emphasis will be on the in-person event, but sponsors will offer remote participation (via Zoom) to both speakers and watchers. Therefore, sponsors will ask you to register in advance in order - [Earth Day Expo in Rapid City - Western Dakota Tech](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-day-celebration-in-rapid-city-western-dakota-tech/) - Earth Day Celebration in Rapid City - at Western Dakota Tech. On April 20, 2024 from 10am-4pm, the Rapid City Sustainability Committee, Dakota Rural Action, and Western Dakota Technical College will again be hosting the 2024 Earth Day Expo to be held on the WDTC Campus. These organizations are happy to have the opportunity to host this - [Hearing on Uranium exploitation policies with Indigenous people Inter-American Commission on Human Rights,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/hearing-on-uranium-exploitation-policies-with-indigenous-people-inter-american-commission-on-human-rights/) - IACHR GRANTS THEMATIC HEARING ON IMPACTS TO INDIGENOUS PEOPLES’ HUMAN RIGHTS FROM URANIUM EXPLOITATION Historic Hearing to be Held in Washington, D.C. Weds, Feb. 28th at 11am EST/9am MST What: Inter-American Commission on Human Rights’ Thematic Hearing Where: IACHR/OAS, 1889 F St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 When: Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at 11am EST/9am MST Who: Members of the - [SD Sierra Club Lobbyist Reports on Legislature at Zoom meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-sierra-club-lobbyist-reports-on-legislature-at-zoom-meeting/) - SD Sierra Club Lobbyist (Guy Larson) will report on 2024 legislature at a Zoom meeting. Thursday evening, Feb. 22, at 7:00 PM Central / 6 PM Mountain. You have to e-mail him for a link: whiterabbetguy@gmail.com - [PHAS February Member's meeting - National Audubon Society reports on their activities in SD, ND & NE](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-february-members-meeting-national-audubon-society-reports-on-their-activities-in-sd-nd-ne/) - PHAS February Member's meeting - National Audubon Society staff reports on their activities in SD, ND & NE Monday, February 26th, 6:30-9:00 by Zoom. (Scroll down for Zoom details). Audubon Great Plains (AGP) staff will join PHAS to update the group on AGP conservation programs across the three states of South Dakota, North Dakota - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Legislative Cracker Barrel Feb. 17th, 2024, 1:30 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-legislative-cracker-barrel-feb-17th-2024/) - Foothills Area Hybrid Cracker Barrel, Piedmont, SD, 2/17/2024 When - Saturday, February 17th, 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm Where – Piedmont American Legion Post Who - Legislators for Districts 29 and 33 have been invited. What is a Cracker Barrel? - It's a moderated question and answer session where the public can ask their elected representative questions - [Comments due on the Bluelead Vegetation Management Project Black Hills National Forest](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-on-the-bluelead-vegetation-project-black-hills-national-forest/) - Scoping comments are due on Feb 28th, 11;59 pm on the Bluelead Vegetation Management Project, Mystic Ranger District, Black Hills National Forest, for details and map visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=65527 - [Comments due Northwest Forest Management Project - Black Hills National Forest](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-northwest-forest-management-project-black-hills-national-forest/) - The Forest Service writes: "A new project is proposed on seven isolated parcels of National Forest land adjacent to the Bear Lodge Mountains, Black Hills National Forest. High fuel loading on these lands poses a risk to surrounding lands and communities. Proposed activities include thinning and removal of ponderosa pine trees. Project information, collaboration - [Norbeck Society November Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-november-meeting/) - Thursday, February 8, 6:00 public Zoom meeting: Norbeck Society presents Martha Geores: “Community Ownership & Sustaining the Black Hills National Forest” (poster attached to email. Martha’s book, “Common Ground: The Struggle for Ownership of the Black Hills National Forest” is available at the RC Library – 2 copies) Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 - [National Audubon Society's Annual Photo Contest Entry Period](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-audubon-societys-annual-photo-contest-entry-period/) - Audubon’s Annual Photo Contest Entry Period (recycles every year) This event recycles every year, in a similar time frame & mode. - you were able to submit photos/videos between January 10th, 2024 at 12 pm-February 28th, 2024 at 12 pm. https://www.audubon.org/get-outside/audubon-photography-awards-2024-official-rules Judges awarded eight prizes to photographers and videographers in 2023: the Grand Prize, Professional Prize, Amateur - [First Rapid City Legislative Cracker Barrel](https://phas-wsd.org/event/first-rapid-city-legislative-cracker-barrel/) - The first Rapid City Legislative Cracker Barrel is January 27th at Western Dakota Tech, 9 am - 11 am. This is sponsored by Elevate Rapid City. Go to our web page on cracker barrels to learn about statewide cracker barrels & the next Rapid City ones - https://phas-wsd.org/sd-legislative-cracker-barrels-2022/ - [SD Legislature Floor votes Monday on HB 1043 (lithium tax) & SB 14 (expand hunt coyotes w/ snowmobiles)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-legislature-floor-votes-monday-on-hb-1043-lithium-tax-sb-14-expand-hunt-coyotes-w-snowmobiles/) - Below find alerts on bills related to environment on the floors (Senate & house) Monday **Senate Bill 14, Would permit taking of coyotes by invitees of landowner from snowmobiles in certain conditions – hunting from snowmobiles is currently not for any species except for coyotes & then only by landowner. PHAS OPPOSES THIS BILL. . In Senate Agriculture - [Senate Floor Vote on SB 14 (was postponed from Monday to Tuesday)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/house-floor-vote-on-sb-14-was-postponed-from-monday-to-tuesday/) - SB 14 (expanding conditional hunting of coyotes from snow mobiles) was removed from the Consent Calendar (thanks to Sen. Nesiba) and the Senate floor vote on SB 14 was postponed from Monday to Tuesday. Senate starts meeting at 2 pm CT on Tuesday and the bill is early on the agenda, Go Back to previous - [SD Legislature - Floor votes HB 1071 (SD DANR would replace NRC)& Committee vote SB 14 (shooting coyotes from snowmobile)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-legislature-committee-floor-votes-hb-1071-sb-14/) - ================================ HOUSE BILLS -------------------------------------------------------------HB 1071, Take action - ask your legislator to oppose HB 1071 - https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/24868 - HB 1071 would let the Governor make agreements with the federal government to extend state authority over uranium mining and milling & other processes with radioactive material . An agreement under this bill would eliminate the Nuclear - [House State Affairs hearing on HB 1071](https://phas-wsd.org/event/house-state-affairs-hearing-on-hb-1071/) - House State Affairs hearing on HB 1071 https://sdlegislature.gov/Session/Bill/24868 Committee: House State Affairs Room: Room 414 Date: Wednesday, January 17, 2024 Time: 7:45 AM-9:45 AM You can testify remotely if you ask the committee at least 24 hours in advance to be scheduled to testify and for a link. You can send written comments in before - [SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's January Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-commissions-january-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's January Meeting is in Pierre, Thursday-Friday, January 11-12, 2024, at Matthews Training Center. Folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm CT in person or by Zoom or phone. Visit this web page closer to the meeting date for more details: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Agenda link: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/Commission_Agenda_-_Jan_11-12,_2024_Public_Copy.pdf?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=gfp-commission-updates&utm_content=GFP+to+Hold+January+Meeting Zoom meeting link; https://state-sd.zoom.us/j/92827772568?pwd=cHByUFlQNi8rRXJ0dGlEazNRbjBqZz09#success To - [Great Back Yard Bird Count](https://phas-wsd.org/event/back-yard-bird-count/) - February 16-19th, 2024, Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) This event repeats annually. This next year it is February 16th-19th 2024. In February the world comes together for the love of birds. https://www.birdcount.org, or https://www.audubon.org/conservation/about-great-backyard-bird-count The Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) is a free, fun, and easy event that engages bird watchers of all ages in counting birds - [Climate Watch Winter Season - January 15th-February 15th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-winter-season-january-15th-february-15th/) - Climate Watch Winter Season - January 15th-February 15th Climate Watch – The summer and winter seasons repeat each year. Climate 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) . Like the - [Scoping Comment Deadline for Parmalee Timber Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-comment-deadline-for-parmalee-timber-project/) - The Hell Canyon Ranger District is proposing a vegetation management project, Parmlee Project Your comments would be most helpful if received by January 5, 2024. The preferred method to comment is via email at: comments-rocky-mountain-black-hills-hell-canyon@usda.gov Other ways to comment include by phone: 605-673-9200, you can hand deliver your comments at the District office at: 1019 - [Triple G/Rallo’s Roost Placer Mining Project Approved](https://phas-wsd.org/event/triple-g-rallos-roost-placer-mining-project-approved/) - The Triple G/Rallo’s Roost Placer Mining Project Decision Memo was signed December 6, 2023. A copy of the final Decision Memo is available on the Black Hills National Forest website at the following web address: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=53352 This Placer mining project is along Rapid Creek between Pactola and Rapid City. This decision is not subject to - [Objection Deadline Golden Crest Exploratory Drilling Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/objection-deadline-golden-crest-exploratory-drilling-project/) - Objection Deadline Golden Crest Exploratory Drilling Project is Friday, January 26th, 2024, 45 days after it was published in RCJ newspaper on Dec 12th, 2023. To have legal standing to object (formally) you must have commented during scoping or draft EA review. Clean Water Alliance and other groups will be doing alerts on this objection - [Christmas Bird Count Season 2023-2024](https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-count-season/) - Christmas Bird Count Season runs from December 14th, 2023 to January 5th, 2024. This years summary (2023-2024) of Christmas Bird Counts in SD and near-by areas of surrounding states can be found on this PHAS web page: https://phas-wsd.org/citizsen-science/ You can also download a PDF of our Announcement of CBC's in SD the region around western - [SD Game, Fish and Parks April Commission Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-april-commission-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission's April Meeting is in Pierre, Thursday-Friday, April 4th-5th, 2024, at Matthew Training Center We assume that SDGFP Commission continues in 2024 with its' normal meeting policies from 2023, in which case, folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm CT in person or by Zoom or phone. Visit - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society's December Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-societys-december-board-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society's December Board Meeting will be the evening of Friday evening, December 15th, 2023 by Zoom. Prairie Hills Audubon Society's (PHAS's) Board Meetings are open to PHAS's members & folks wishing to make presentations/requests. Contact Nancy Hilding for link information - 605-787-6466, phas.wsd@rapidnet.com - [Deadline (extended) to Comment on Dakota Access Pipeline DEIS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-extended-to-comment-on-dakota-access-pipeline-deis/) - The Army Corps opened the comment period on the draft DAPL EIS on September 8, 2023. The comment period will close at 11:59 PM ET December 13, 2023. https://www.nwo.usace.army.mil/Missions/Dam-and-Lake-Projects/Oil-and-Gas-Development/Dakota-Access-Pipeline/ The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District is seeking public comments on the recently published Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Dakota Access, LLC’s - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission's December 2023 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commissions-december-2023-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission's December 2023 meeting will be in Fort Pierre at Americinn and by Zoom. Send written comments by midnight of the Sunday before. Folks can testify for 3 minutes at 2 pm CT in person or by Zoom or phone. Visit this web page closer to the meeting date for - [Deadline of the extended comment period Cutty Sark Lode Gold/Silver Exploration Mining, BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-of-the-extended-comment-period-cutty-sark-lode-gold-silver-exploration-mining-bhnf/) - The Black Hills National Forest extended the comment period on Cutty Sark mine, by 15 days to Nov 23, which was Thanksgiving, so when deadlines fall on Holidays/Weekends you go to the next working day, so deadline is likely, Monday,Nov. 27th. Go to the calendar day for the original 11/2/23 deadline for details https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-cutty-sark-lode-gold-silver-exploration-project/ - [SD Water Management Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-meeting-3/) - Below is notice if Water Management Board meeting in Pierre, at Joe Foss Building, You can participate remotely by Microsoft Teams or teleconference: December 6, 2023. Here is the link to the portal to learn about the meeting, https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 Agenda: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202312Agenda1.pdf Board Packet: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/bcuploads/202312PacketBoard.pdf - [American Bird Conservancy - Webinar on Bird Conservation](https://phas-wsd.org/event/american-bird-conservancy-webinar-on-bird-conservation/) - American Bird Conservancy's [ABC] invite to their webinar 12/5/23 is below - It will be a review of their actions for bird conservation in past year & next year Here is the link to register https://act.abcbirds.org/a/c4-2023-update Here is a copy of their invite: Join us [ABC] on Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET for a - [Black Hills National Forest Releases BHNF Forest Plan Assessments](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-releases-bhnf-forest-plan-assessments/) - On Friday, Dec 1st the Black Hills National Forest released its' Forest Plan Assessments. This is the beginning step in creating the Forest Plan Revision. Scoping will follow in the new year. The Forest has released the 20 revised forest-wide resource assessments, which will be used along with best available scientific information, and new information - [Black Hills National Forest - Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting-2/) - Black Hills National Forest - Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting is likely to occur on 1/17/24. As the date approaches, please verify that the meeting will occur, - visit BHNF web page https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114550 or email scott.j.jacobson@usda.gov - [BHNF Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting - afternoon of Wednesday Dec 6th, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-forest-service-advisory-meeting-afternoon-of-wednesday-dec-6th-rapid-city/) - Advisory Board Meeting Forest Service Office – Mystic Ranger District Office 8221Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – December 6, 2023 The National Forest Advisory Board will meet on Wednesday, December 6 at 1:00 at the Mystic District Ranger Office. The agenda is available at: fseprd1154157.pdf (usda.gov) The meeting is open - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission November 2023 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-november-2023-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission November 2023 meeting will not be held in Rapid City, but has been changed to Madison at the Prairie Shores Resort and Events, Madison, SD. It will be Thursday Nov 2nd. They will not meet on Friday as originally planned. It will be hybrid. Written comments should be - [Deadline to submit comments to SD GFP Commission for December meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-comments-to-sd-gfp-commission-for-december-meeting/) - If you want to submit comments for the public record of Dec 7th-8th Commission meeting in Ft. Pierre (and Zoom) , you must do so on-line before midnight CT. Go to our Dec 7th, SD GFP event announcement for details on how to comment & the meeting: https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commissions-december-2023-meeting/ Written comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. To be included - [PHAS's November Members meeting - Topic: Raccoons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/likely-date-phass-november-members-meeting-topic-raccoons/) - Wednesday, November 29th, 2023 , 6 pm MT -is the date of Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s November meeting by Zoom, which will be on raccoons and also towards the end of the meeting, some other meso-carnivores. We will talk about the raccoon's range, habitat, behaviors, life cycle and beneficial uses and conflicts with humans. - ["Gathering Mushrooms & Willow" - a crankie](https://phas-wsd.org/event/gathering-mushrooms-willow-a-crankie/) - "Gathering Mushrooms & Willow" - A crankie, a theater box with spools, moves an illustrated painted scroll from scene to scene as stories unfold with music (flute, sax, violin & song) & narrative. All ages $5 donation. At Aby's 406, 5th St. Rapid City, SD - [Great Plains Tribal Water Alliance Winter Water & Climate Conference December 6-7, 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-plains-tribal-water-alliance-winter-water-climate-conference-december-6-7-2023/) - Great Plains Tribal Water Alliance Winter Water & Climate Conference December 6-7, 2023 in Box Elder, at the Box Events Center. Exact time-of-day it starts or ends is not yet published, so I guessed at those start/end times www.TRIBALWATERALLIANCE.ORG, For info.: contact Reinique Black: reiniqueb@gmail.com, 605-515-1097, Registration fee is $50.00. You can pay on-line or - [BHNF Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting - to be POSTPONED](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting-2/) - Advisory Board Meeting Forest Service Office – Mystic Ranger District Office 8221Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 Was going to be at 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – November 15th, 2023 but it will be postponed, maybe to Dec. 6th, 2023 For agenda, when close to the date visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114550 - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society November Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-november-board-meeting/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) November board meeting will be Wednesday November 8th at 6 pm MT. PHAS board meetings are by Zoom and are open to members, but we don't publish the Zoom details on-line. If you are a member >> call or e-mail PHAS president Nancy Hilding to get the Zoom details - - [Comment deadline on Cutty Sark Lode Gold Silver Exploration Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-cutty-sark-lode-gold-silver-exploration-project/) - Cutty Sark Lode Gold Silver Exploration Project would be on a claim about .68 miles north of Mystic SD, in the Castle Creek drainage. This project is about a half mile west of the intersection of Castle Creek and Rapid Creek about a mile & a third north west of the Canyon City Research - [Norbeck Society November meeting on prescribed fire](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-november-meeting-on-prescribed-fire/) - Norbeck Society November meeting on prescribed fire - "What does it take to implement a prescribed fire?" Norbeck Society meets on Thursday, November 9th 6:00 p.m. Mountain Time for an evening Zoom with Chris Stover, Forest Fuels Specialist, Supervisor’s Office, Black Hills National Forest. Chris's career in Fire and Fuels is relatively unique in that - [PHAS October member's hybrid meeting on protecting French Creek water quality](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-october-members-hybrid-meeting-on-protecting-french-creek-water-quality/) - PHAS October member's hybrid meeting on protecting French Creek water quality Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s October Monthly Meeting Monday October 30th, 2023, 6 pm Hybrid meeting - Outdoor Campus West in Rapid City and Zoom Topic - Protecting French Creek from Sewage Pollution Presenter - Todd Konechne Discussion Custer City is upgrading its' sewage - [Comment Deadline - Updated EA on GFP's Shooting Range at Elk Vale Rd](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-updated-ea-on-gfps-shooting-range-at-elk-vale-rd/) - Draft Update to the Final Environmental Assessment SD Shooting Sports Complex was released by USFWS in late September 2023 Comments are due to USFWS Oct 26th at noon. Send to: Adrianna Araya, Fish and Wildlife Biologist, adrianna_araya@fws.gov or via mail to: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Attn: Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration, P.O. Box 25486, Denver, CO, - [Comment Deadline - Triple G Placer mining proposal - Rapid Creek/Johnson Siding,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-triple-g-placer-mining-proposal/) - October 26th is the Comment Deadline - Triple G Placer mining proposal It is a placer mine proposal, one mile southwest of Johnson Siding. It may be within a half mile east of Placerville Camp. Hand tools will be used and a battery powered recirculating sluice. Water will be brought from off site, but - ["Owl-o-Ween", at Black Hills Raptor Center](https://phas-wsd.org/event/owl-o-ween-at-black-hills-raptor-center/) - October 21, 2023, 12-5 pm. For guided tours of the facility you need reservations available at the top of each hour (noon to 4 pm) , RSVP to https://www.blackhillsraptorcenter.org/owl-o-ween-celebration/ (Once on-line, you can click on a chosen time frame) Black Hills Raptor Center, 15256 East Hwy 44, Rapid City Enjoy family fun, tour the facility, and meet the avian ambassadors! - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission October 2023 Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-october-meeting/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission October Meeting was in Deadwood and occurred on Thursday 5th and Friday the 6th of October 2023. It will be hybrid and Zoom links will be available. More details will be posted later, but as it gets close to the meeting - for details watch: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ Written comments are due - [12/1/23 Deadline to apply for position on the Black Hills Forest Service Advisory Board](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-apply-for-position-on-the-black-hills-forest-service-advisory-board/) - Friday, December 1st if the deadline to submit application to serve on the Forest Service Advisory Board. We are not sure if the time-of-day of the deadline is COB or just before midnight and/or received or post marked. We will find out and update this notice. Notice https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1145643.pdf Details https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/blackhills/workingtogether/advisorycommittees/?cid=stelprdb5114570 SEEKING MEMBERS FROM THE FOLLOWING - [Black Hills National Forest - Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting/) - Advisory Board Meeting Forest Service Office – Mystic Ranger District Office 8221Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 Likely at 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – October 18th, 2023 We are told that a lady from the Regional office will be there to release the final environmental assessments. This is the step needed before scoping - [Norbeck Society Annual Meeting & Picnic](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-annual-meeting-picnic/) - Sunday, October 8, 11:00 a.m. Annual Picnic at Steamboat Rock Picnic Area, Nemo Road (18 miles northwest of Rapid City or 3.4 miles southeast of Nemo). There will be a potluck and the annual report. There is plenty of room to park along the closed gate. Potluck picnic – bring a dish to share and bring a chair. - [Comment deadline on Spruce Draft Environmental Assessment, BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-spruce-draft-environmental-assessment-bhnf/) - Comment Period on Spruce Draft Environmental Assessment, BHNF originally ended on Monday, Sept 25th. The Forest Service later (on 10/2/23) granted a 4 day extension till Friday October 6th. Go to Oct. 6th calendar day alert for info on that. Comments are e-mailed to Matthew Daily for later (10/6/23) deadline Matthew.Daily@usda.gov. https://phas-wsd.org/event/spruce-comment-deadline-is-extended/ Link to view - [Deadline for written comments to SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission for November meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-to-sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-for-november-meeting/) - 10/29 is the deadline for written comments to SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission to be received by GFP. In order to be included in the public record and to be considered by the Commission. Comments must include a full name and city of residence and be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CDT on Sunday October - [Recording of Radio interview Zimmerman/Burkhart- on Black Hills in the Balance - SDPB](https://phas-wsd.org/event/recording-of-radio-interview-zimmerman-burkhart-on-black-hills-in-the-balance-sdpb/) - Recording of a radio interview of Mary Zimmerman/Beth Burkhart-(of the Norbeck Society) on "Black Hills in the Balance" - SDPB https://listen.sdpb.org/rural-life-and-history/2023-09-20/black-hills-in-the-balance - [Dakota Rural Action Annual Meeting, Hot Springs](https://phas-wsd.org/event/dakota-rural-action-annual-meeting-hot-springs/) - October 20th and 21st, Dakota Rural Action will hold its 2023 Annual Meeting in Hot Springs at the Red River Rock Resort. This year the Annual Meeting is free for members to attend. Friday 10 am-4 pm, 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm, Sat 10 am -3 pm For more info: https://www.dakotarural.org/2023-annual-meeting/ - [Spruce comment deadline is extended](https://phas-wsd.org/event/spruce-comment-deadline-is-extended/) - Comment deadline on Spruce project was extended until Friday, October 06, 2023 at 11:59 p.m. MT. This is because the webpage for the project (including the commenting portal) was not working for part of Friday, all of Saturday and Sunday and part of Monday, when comments were due on Monday the 25th. This was a nation wide - [Norbeck Society Zoom meeting on Milkweed Hybridization](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-zoom-meeting-on-milkweed-hybridization/) - Thursday, October 12, 6:00 p.m. - Norbeck Presents an evening Zoom with National Science Foundation grant recipient Dr. Carrie Olson-Manning, Associate Professor of Biology & Computer Science, Augustana University: “The Science of Milkweed Hybridization: What happens to genomes and biochemical networks when species hybridize?” Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 - [Deadline to Send Written Comments to SDGFP Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission/) - Just before midnight MT is the legal deadline to send written comments to the SDGFP. Even though it is illegal when meeting occurs in MT location, SDGFP's Artificial Intelligence may cut off the comment period at midnight CT. If they don't include your comment sent before midnight 11:59 MT, it is illegal and you can - [Field Trip on Forestry Basics](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-on-forestry-basics/) - Field Trip on Forestry Basics Monday, Oct 16th, 2023, 9 am A car caravan will be organized in a dirt parking area along highway 385, just south of the entrance to Crazy Horse Monument & north of Custer, SD. Dave Mertz, a retired forester from the Black Hills National Forest (BHNF), will drive around the - [The Drive Electric EV Car Event - Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/the-drive-electric-ev-car-event-rapid-city/) - The City of Rapid City’s Standing Committee on Sustainability is honored to sponsor The Drive Electric EV Car Event that will be held again this year in Rapid City in conjunction with the Cruiser Car Show to be held at Main Street Square from 2-6 pm on Saturday, September 30, 2023. The EVs will be on the - [Deadline to Comment on Biden Administration's Proposed Changes to NEPA](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-biden-administrations-proposed-changes-to-nepa/) - Biden's White House's Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) issued a proposed rule-making on 31 July 2023 to implement Congress’s changes to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) recently enacted in the Fiscal Responsibility Act & also to complete Phase 2 of its' rewrite of Trump's rewrite of NEPA. The proposed rule is open for public - [Sierra Club Hybrid Meeting on Mining Threats to Rapid Creek Watershed](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sierra-club-hybrid-meeting-on-mining-threats-to-rapid-creek-watershed/) - Black Hills Group of Sierra Club is hosting a program on protecting the Rapid Creek watershed from mining and exploration -- Thursday , Oct 28th beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Outdoor Campus - West in Rapid City. Suzanne Martley (an environmental attorney) will lead the discussion. This is a hybrid meeting ....Suzanne will be online by 6:15 - [BLM's Proposed On-Shore Oil/Gas Leasing Rule Reform Comment Deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/blms-proposed-on-shore-oil-gas-leasing-rule-reform-comment-deadline/) - Under direction of the Biden administration BLM is planning to do long overdue changes to its' oil and gas leasing rules. Bonding rates and rules haven’t been updated in 60 years and are insufficient to cover the costs to clean up spills and abandoned wells. New bonding proposals in proposed rule will better protect taxpayers from - [National Audubon Society National Leadership Conference - Estes Park](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-audubon-society-national-leadership-conference-estes-park/) - National Audubon Society National Chapter meeting in Estes Park, Colorado, Audubon Leadership Conference, November 2-5, 2023 YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, Colorado, USA It starts at noon on Thursday and ends Sunday Morning at 9:30 am Event Home page https://web.cvent.com/event/a4a5611a-1a4c-4c5c-83a2-ead1340869bd/summary?emci=929f483d-ec48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&emdi=06bc6151-fa48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&ceid=403117 Agenda https://web.cvent.com/event/a4a5611a-1a4c-4c5c-83a2-ead1340869bd/websitePage:c9dc1695-74de-4794-a42e-587ef4d79238?emci=929f483d-ec48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&emdi=06bc6151-fa48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&ceid=403117 Scholarship page https://web.cvent.com/event/a4a5611a-1a4c-4c5c-83a2-ead1340869bd/websitePage:39b45d1d-fa14-4d59-aee8-1b246ebb59c9?emci=929f483d-ec48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&emdi=06bc6151-fa48-ee11-a3f1-00224832eb73&ceid=403117 Registration will open August 9, 2023. - [BHNF Forest Service Advisory Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-forest-service-advisory-board-meeting/) - Advisory Board Meeting Forest Service Office – Mystic Ranger District Office 8221Mount Rushmore Road, Rapid City, SD 57702 1:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – September 13, 2023 For agenda visit: https://www.fs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/fseprd1137280.pdf - [Advocate for EPA Climate Pollution Grant before Rapid City Legal and Finance Committee](https://phas-wsd.org/event/advocate-for-epa-clean-air-grant-before-rapid-city-council-meeting/) - A $1m EPA Climate Pollution Reduction planning grant has been awarded to Rapid City, but Mayor Salamun was going to send it to the City Council to have them vote on whether or not to accept the funding and move forward (the City Council already approved it on 4/3/23 so this is a "request to - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission Sept 2023 meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-sept-2023-meeting/) - REPORT AFTER MEETING Results of the Commission meeting (now past) The Commission killed the petition from the hound hunters to expand hound hunting to the rest of the Black Hills outside of Custer State Park. This will temporarily good news, is not long term good news. A bunch of the Commissioners want to expand hound - [Deadline to register to testify at Wyoming GFP Hearing on 9/13th by Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-register-to-testify-at-wyoming-gfp-hearing-by-zoom/) - Friday s the deadline to register with Wyoming Game & Fish to testify at their Commission meeting Sept 12-13. Go to Sept 12-13th event posting for details on the meeting An hour has been designated for the presentation about the off-schedule mountain lion season proposals in Wyoming on Wednesday September 13th in Gillette WY. The - [Wyoming Game & Fish Commission Meeting Gillette](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-game-fish-commission-meeting-gillette/) - Commission Meeting September 12-13, 2023 Gillette, WY The public comment period for Chapters 2, 28, and 42 (cougars) closes at 5:00 PM on August 4, 2023. https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Get-Involved/Public-Meetings Commission meeting at CAM-PLEX (Frontier Hall in Wyoming Center), 1635 Reata Drive, Gillette. Open session on Tuesday begins at about 1:30 pm and at 8 am on Wednesday. You can testify remotely by - [Deadline to Comment on DANR's Draft Integrated Report (Surface Water Quality)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-danrs-draft-integrated-report-surface-water-quality/) - Deadline to comment on the Draft Surface Water Quality Integrated Report is Saturday, As I understand it, if you have water quality information on a SD Surface water, this is your opportunity to send it to DANR so as to be included in the final report. DANR public notice page https://danr.sd.gov/public/default.aspx Public notice: https://danr.sd.gov/officeofwater/surfacewaterquality/pn/2024IRPublicNoticeletter1.pdf - [](https://phas-wsd.org/event/8503/) - It's Rapid City's 3rd Annual 5k Run/Walk for Clean Water and is being held on Saturday, August 26, 2023, at 8:00 am (MT). This special event is held to have some fun and laughs, meet new people, get some sunshine, and enjoy the beautiful, life-flowing Rapid Creek - Water Is Life. This event also helps bring awareness about the need to - [Comment Deadline on Shotgun Timber sale](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-on-shotgun-timber-sale/) - Comment Deadline on BHNF's Shotgun Timber sale was Monday, August 14th, 2023 The USDA Forest Service is conducting an analysis of the Shotgun forest management project. The project is on Bearlodge Ranger District, Black Hills National Forest, in three locations in the west-central Bear Lodge Mountains and northwestern Black Hills. The proposed action would - [Deadline to Comment on Triple R Timber Sale](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-triple-r-timber-sale/) - The Mystic District of the Black Hills National Forest has initiated public scoping for the Triple R Vegetation Management Project. Comment deadline would be 8/19/23, but that is on a Saturday, so it will be Monday 8/21/23. Send to : Scoping documents can be found at the following web address: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=64487 - [Bat Festival at Mato Tipila/Devil's Tower,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bat-festival-at-mato-tipila-devils-tower/) - Bat Festival at Mato Tipila/Devil's Tower "DEVILS TOWER, WY – On Saturday, July 22nd, the National Park Service and Devils Tower Natural History Association will host the Annual Bat Festival in the Picnic area of the Monument from 12 to 10 pm. This festival will include presentations and fun educational activities all about the amazing - [Mni Ki Wakan Summit - Indigenous Water Decade](https://phas-wsd.org/event/mni-ki-wakan-summit-indigenous-water-decade/) - MKW - Mni Ki Wakan Summit - Indigenous Water Decade, - Theme: Indigenous Water Justice, Global Collaboration & Dismantling Water Colonialism. On August 15-17, the Mni Ki Wakan Summit will be held in Rapid City, South Dakota, United States, at the Holiday Inn conference space (505 North Fifth St, Rapid City, SD 57701). Breakfast, lunch, - [Volunteer to help build beaver dam analog w/ BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/volunteer-to-help-build-beaver-dam-analog-w-bhnf/) - Volunteer to help build beaver dam analog w/ BHNF Prairie Hills Audubon Society has a major campaign to help beaver recover in the Black Hills and other parts of SD. We support building of beaver dam analogs and hope to find a bunch of members and friends to help with this project and learn about - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society Annual Meeting - Hybrid](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-annual-meeting-hybrid/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society Annual Meeting - Hybrid This meeting will start at 6 pm MT on Thursday, August 31st. It will be hybrid >> by Zoom & face-to-face at the Piedmont American Legion Post 311 - 101 Pine St, Piedmont, SD 57769. The Post is located at the corner of Sturgis Rd and - [COUGAR AND WOLF ALERT - WYOMING - Comment deadline WGF 6/3/22](https://phas-wsd.org/event/cougar-and-wolf-alert-wyoming-comment-deadline-wgf-6-3-22/) - COUGAR AND WOLF ALERT - WYOMING To PHAS members and friends IMMEDIATE ACTION NEEDED - Deadline to take action on Friday June 3rd. Wyoming's cougar & wolf rule making, Comments due June 3rd Wyoming is doing their triennial review/rewrite of their Mt Lion hunting regulations, their annual review of wolf hunting regulations and also rules on - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting for July](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-for-july/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission meeting for July Thursday 20th - Friday 21st, 2023. Ran from 1 pm to 5 pm Thursday Central Time This occurred in person in Chamberlain and by Zoom. Deadline for public's written comments to be included in the public record of this meeting (rather than the next) was just - [Deadline to comment on withdrawal of FS lands in Rapid Creek Watershed from mineral entry](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-withdrawal-of-fs-lands-in-rapid-creek-watershed-from-mineral-entry/) - June 20th is the deadline submit comments on the proposed mineral withdrawal. Mining is allowed on all Forest Service lands under the 1872 Mining Act unless land is withdrawn from mineral entry. Mining exploration & claims in the Rapid Creek drainage threaten Rapid City's & Ellsworth's water. The administration is initiating consideration of a 20-year - [Previous deadline for BLM comments on Ecosystem Resilience rules](https://phas-wsd.org/event/blm-seeks-comments-on-climate-policy-act-to-protect-mature-forests/) - This deadline has been extended to July 5th - go to July 5th event posting for update The proposed rule was originally published in the federal register on April 3rd . BLM seeks to gather input about important ways it should balance its mission to focus on cultural lands protection, conservation, recreation, wildlife, and climate - [Previous Comment Deadline - Dept of Interior Rulemaking - ecosystem resilience](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-dept-of-interior-rulemaking-ecosystem-resilience/) - The deadline has been extended to July 5th- Press release on extension: https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-extends-comment-period-proposed-public-lands-rule BLM EXTENDS COMMENT PERIOD FOR PROPOSED PUBLIC LANDS RULE WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management is extending the public comment period for the Public Lands Rule by 15 days. This brings the time collecting public feedback on the proposed rule to a total of 90 - [Pennington County Commission meeting June 20th - see mineral withdrawal resolution](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-commission-meeting-june-20th-see-mineral-withdrawal-resolution/) - Pennington County Commission at their meeting on June 20th - UPDATE: We thought the county would vote on a resolution to support the BHNF & BLM proposed mineral withdrawal around Pactola Lake & the entire drainage. However at the meeting they have proposed both a neutral and opposition resolution (opposing the withdrawal). The motion to - [Wyoming Game & Fish Commission Meeting July 18-19 Wheatland](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-game-fish-commission-meeting-july-18-19-wheatland/) - Wyoming Game & Fish Commission Meeting July 18-19 Wheatland https://wgfd.wyo.gov/Get-Involved/Public-Meetings We are not sure of exact time of day it starts & ends. Changes to watercraft, fishing & gray wolf hunting regulations will be considered. Written comment period is passed. In the area where hunting is regulated, a small but net reduction in number of - [Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting - cougar hunting rules reviewed](https://phas-wsd.org/event/montana-fish-and-wildlife-commission-meeting-cougar-hunting-rules-reviewed/) - UPDATE - In Montana, the commission authorized a 40% cut in lion populations over 6 years in one large area, and significant reductions elsewhere. The long timeline means there’s an opportunity to revisit this decision in coming years, but they seem firmly committed to reducing populations. The 40% reduction means nearly doubling quotas (86% - [Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting - cougar & otter hunting season](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-game-and-parks-commission-meeting-cougar-hunting-season/) - Alert on mountain lions and otters MOUNTAIN LIONS UPDATE: NGP Commission passed the proposed cougar hunting rule changes. https://kearneyhub.com/news/expanded-mountain-lion-season-approved-in-nebraska/article_f2a3e344-06ff-11ee-80aa-4737c86f0c64.html) ============= Nebraska Game and Parks Commission meeting at Alma, Nebraska on June 9th, will consider the annual changes to the Nebraska Mountain Lion Season (Title: 163 Chapter(s): 004 Section(s): 037). The hearing - [Deadline for written comments to NE Game and Parks Commission on cougar and otter seasons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-written-comments-to-ne-game-and-parks-commission-on-cougar-and-otter-seasons/) - Deadline for written comments to NE Game and Parks Commission that are proposed for the NE cougar and otter seasons. For more information contact Sheri Henderson at 402-471-5539 or sheri.henderson@nebraska.gov, Written comment deadline is received at 1 pm CT June 7th and you can send comments to Sheri Henderson's e-mail (sheri.henderson@nebraska.gov). Go to our posting - [6th America's Grassland Conference - NWF - Cheyenne Wyoming](https://phas-wsd.org/event/6th-americas-grassland-conference-nwf-cheyenne-wyoming/) - 6th America's Grassland Conference - Cheyenne Wyoming, the Great Plains Conservation Network's biennial meeting maybe piggy backed to this location/time-frame. We are not sure of exact start and end times of the meetings. For more information on the Conference: http://nwf.org/grasslandsconference - [Deadline to comment on BLM's Ecosystem Resilience Rule changes](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-blms-ecosystem-resilience-rule-changes/) - BLM EXTENDED THE COMMENT PERIOD WASHINGTON — The Bureau of Land Management extended the public comment period for the Public Lands Rule by 15 days. This brings the time collecting public feedback on the proposed rule to a total of 90 days. The new deadline to provide input is July 5, 2023. https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-extends-comment-period-proposed-public-lands-rule BLM seeks to gather input - [Board of Minerals & Environment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment-3/) - Tentative BME meeting schedule for the remainder of 2023: November 16, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting to confirm & get exact start & end times. Here is the link for the BME: - [Board of Minerals & environment Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment-meeting-2/) - Tentative BME meeting schedule for the remainder of 2023: October 19, 2023 November 16, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting to confirm & get exact start & end times. Here is the link for the BME: - [Board of Minerals & Environment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment-2/) - Tentative BME meeting schedule for the remainder of 2023: September 21, 2023 October 19, 2023 November 16, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting to confirm & get exact start & end times. Here is the link for the BME: - [Board of Minerals & Environment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment/) - Tentative BME meeting schedule for the remainder of 2023: August 17, 2023 September 21, 2023 October 19, 2023 November 16, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting to confirm & get exact start & end times. Here is the link for the BME: - [Board of Minerals & Environment Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/board-of-minerals-environment-meeting/) - Tentative BME meeting schedule for the remainder of 2023: July 20, 2023 August 17, 2023 September 21, 2023 October 19, 2023 November 16, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting to confirm & get exact start & end times. Here is the link for - [SD Water Management Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-meeting-2/) - Below are the Water Management Board meetings tentatively scheduled for the remainder of 2023. October 4-5, 2023 December 6-7, 2023 Please check the Boards and Commissions Portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting date to confirm. Here is the link to the portal: https://boardsandcommissions.sd.gov/Meetings.aspx?BoardID=106 - [SD Water Management Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-water-management-board-meeting/) - Below are the Water Management Board meetings tentatively scheduled for the remainder of 2023. July 12-13, 2023 October 4-5, 2023 December 6-7, 2023 We believe that the currently planned June 2023 meeting may be cancelled. Please check the Boards and Commissions Portal a week to 10 days prior to the scheduled meeting date to confirm. - [Deadline to Comment on Wharf's Surface Water Discharge Permit - DANR](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-wharfs-surface-water-discharge-permit-danr/) - Deadline to Comment on Wharf's Surface Water Discharge Permit to SD Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR). The renewal of the Surface Water Discharge permit will allow the discharge of pollutants from Wharf Resources mining operation. Discharges from this facility could enter a number of receiving waters near the mine. PHAS is concerned about SD DANR using out-dated - [Deadline to Comment on National Forest Rule making](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-national-forest-rule-making/) - The Forest Service (Agency), United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), published an advance notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register on April 21, 2023 initiating a 60-day comment period. The advance notice invited public comment on the following topic and additional questions: "Given that climate change and related stressors are resulting in increasing impacts - [BHNF National Forest Advisory Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting-2/) - June 14th is the June Forest Service Advisory Board meeting. Meetings are open to the Public. The agenda will include time for people to make oral statements of three minutes or less. Individuals wishing to make an oral statement should make a request in writing by at least three days before the meeting, to be - [Silver Creek Riparian Restoration Project - alternative comment deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/silver-creek-riparian-restoration-project-alternative-comment-deadline/) - As the scoping letter's deadline of - 30 days after May 11th - fell on a Saturday, the deadline for sending scoping comments on this project is likely Monday. This is due to Forest Service normal day-counting rules that skip over holidays & weekends. Go to our alert on June 10th to read about the - [Scoping deadline for beaver dam analog project BHNF - Silver Creek](https://phas-wsd.org/event/scoping-deadline-for-beaver-dam-analog-project-bhnf-silver-creek/) - Scoping deadline for beaver dam analog project BHNF - Silver Creek is June 10th (or 12th). PHAS supports this project - beaver dam analogs, mimic beaver dams and help to retain surface and ground water, store carbon, clean water and provide for aquatic and terrestrial habitat for other species, especially birds. They can result in - [Comments due - Draft Environmental Assessment (EA) - Golden Crest Exploration Drilling Project.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-draft-environmental-assessment-ea-golden-crest-exploration-drilling-project/) - Comments on Draft EA are due by June 8, 2023 11:59 PM MST Solitario Zinc, a Colorado company, has proposed their Golden Crest Exploration Drilling Project, located along the west side of Spearfish Canyon from well south of Cheyenne Crossing to north of Bridal Veil Falls. This project includes up to 25 core drilling sites - [SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting - June 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-june-2023/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting at Good Earth State Park- June 8th-9th 2023 The SDGFP Commission meeting will be a hybrid meeting held in Sioux Falls and on Zoom, More information about the meeting including the agenda & proposals/petitions has been posted here: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ The agenda: https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/nav/June_2023_Agenda_(Public_Copy).pdf Rules for river otter hunting/trapping, - [Birding field trip at Chadron, NE - Bird Conservancy of the Rockies](https://phas-wsd.org/event/birding-field-trip-at-chadron-ne-bird-conservancy-of-the-rockies/) - BIRDING TOURS IN NEBRASKA PANHANDLE Join Bird Conservancy of the Rockies (BCR) to get to know the winged wonders that share our home. BCR will explore a different areas of the Panhandle from April to November, covering many habitats with a chance to discover new birds each time. This program is intended for anyone interested in birding; - [PHAS networking meeting on predators & "varmints" in SD & nearby states/provinces](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-networking-meeting-on-predators-varmints-in-sd-nearby-states-provinces/) - PHAS networking meeting on predators & "varmints" in SD & nearby states/provinces. at 6 pm MT 6/4/23 This meeting is by Zoom & is a working strategy meeting where attendees discuss tasks, goals & objectives to create change in management of predators & "varmints". There are no formal presentations likely. People can bring up predators - [Comment Deadline to DANR on BHNF Beaver Dam Analog project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-to-danr-on-bhnf-beaver-dam-analog-project/) - Comment Deadline to DANR on BHNF Beaver Dam Analog project. The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) has received an application for a Water Resource Enhancement or Restoration Project approval, pursuant to Administrative Rules of South Dakota 74:51:01:60. The Black Hills National Forest is proposing to increase aquatic and riparian habitat along Silver Creek and - [National Trails Day - 3 Hikes on the BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-trails-day/) - National Trails Day is a day set aside to celebrate America’s trail systems and their countless supporters and volunteers. For more information about this national event, visit www.americanhiking.org. Several SD state parks will be hosting trail-related events that day. SD GFP Custer State Park's Little Devils Tower Hike: https://gfp.sd.gov/events/detail/2366/ The Black - [Deadline scoping comments on Pactola Lake Aquatic Habitat Improvement project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-scoping-comments-on-pactola-lake-aquatic-habitat-improvement-project/) - Midnight on June 12th, is the suggested scoping comment deadline for the Pactola Lake Aquatic Habitat Improvement Project of the Black Hills National Forest (BHNF) - visit https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/folder/210766728183 https://usfs-public.app.box.com/v/PinyonPublic/file/1229845811526 - [Deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for June meet](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-june-meet/) - Submit written comments on-line before Sunday night at midnight CT When the Commission has public hearings on Thursdays (which they normally do) the deadline to submit written comments is Sunday at midnight of the time zone of the meeting. Go to the our alert on the June meetings for details - https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-june-2023/ Written comments can - [Bumble Bee Atlas Training](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bumble-bee-atlas-training/) - Bumble Bee Atlas Training at SD Game, Fish & Park's Outdoor Campus West (OCW), Rapid City, SD, May 31st. We actually don't know the start & end time of training on 5/31 - but OCW staff says the sponsors reserved the room from 8 am to 5 pm. Help create a nationwide atlas of bumble - [Intertribal Agriculture Council Great Plains Regional Summit](https://phas-wsd.org/event/intertribal-agriculture-council-great-plains-regional-summit/) - IAC Great Plains Regional Summit JUNE 6 - 7 | Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center, Pierre, SD ​We haven't seen the agenda, so we don't know the actual start and end times on each day. Informational sessions for Native American producers and Tribal entities in the Great Plains Region TOPICS: USDA programs available to tribal entities and - [Suggested scoping deadline on Lost Project timber sale at BHNF](https://phas-wsd.org/event/suggested-scoping-deadline-on-lost-project-timber-sale-at-bhnf/) - June 7th 2023 - just before midnight is the suggested deadline for scoping comments. This project is near Newcastle & Jewel Cave. A Wildfire Resilience Categorical Exclusion & Decision Memo are expected. For info.: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/blackhills/?project=64158 The preferred method to submit comments is via email at comments-rocky-mountain-black-hills-hell canyon@usda.gov .Please use "lost"in the subject line. - [World Turtle Day](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-turtle-day/) - Tuesday, May 23rd is World Turtle Day Visit Wikipedia former info. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_Turtle_Day The False Map Turtle is listed as threatened on SD's list of threatened & endangered species: https://www.sdherps.org/species/graptemys_pseudogeographica - [Endangered Species Chalk Art Event](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-chalk-art-event/) - Endangered Species Chalk Art Event The competition will take place from Friday, May 19th, 2023 to Sunday, May 21st. Friday, May 19th is Endangered Species Day. People of all ages, identities, and skill levels to participate in this competition. People can create chalk art individually or to collaborate with each other. To be eligible for - [Endangered Species Day Celebration 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/endangered-species-day-2023/) - 2023 is the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act - which President Nixon signed into law on December 28th of 1973. Endangered Species Day is set by Congress to be the third Friday in May. This our 16th year of having a multi-group sponsored Endangered Species Day Celebration in Rapid City area. This will - [Celebrate Issue of Endangered Species Commemorative Forever® Stamps](https://phas-wsd.org/event/celebrate-issue-of-postage-stamp-with-black-footed-ferret/) - Endangered Species Commemorative Forever® Stamps First-Day-of-Issue stamp ceremony on Friday, May 19, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. There will be an event in Wall, SD on Endangered Species Day, May 19th, 2023 to celebrate the issuance of a set of postage stamps featuring a set of endangered species, including the black-footed ferret. It will be sponsored - [Hearing on Wharf's application to expand their mine](https://phas-wsd.org/event/hearing-on-wharfs-application-to-expand-their-mine/) - Hearing on Wharf's application to expand their mine. May 18th and 19th - DANR - Foss Building – Matthew Training Center, Pierre, SD, Start Date/Time: 05/18/2023 10:00 AM End Date/Time: 05/19/2023 05:00 PM. Wharf has been in operation since December 1982. Previously it has been granted four additional mining permits to expand its operation: two in - [National Forest Advisory Board meeting May 17th, 1 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/national-forest-advisory-board-meeting-may-17th-1-pm/) - A National Forest Advisory Board meeting is scheduled for May 17th- 1 pm - 4:30 pm at Mystic Ranger District, 8221 Mount Rushmore Rd, Rapid City, SD 57702 Topics on the meeting agenda include Long Eared Bat Listing – Reclassified as Endangered, Black Elk Wilderness Area, Fire Season 2023, and Forest Plan Revision update. Meetings - [PHAS's Field Trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-to-la-creek-national-wildlife-refuge/) - Field Trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge, May 13th This is an annual event that Prairie Hills Audubon Society and Black Hills Group of Sierra Club sponsor every May - either the first or second weekend in May. This year it is on Saturday the 13th -- second Saturday. Every May, the second Saturday - [Treaty Summit - hosted by Oglala Sioux Tribe](https://phas-wsd.org/event/treaty-summit-hosted-by-oglala-sioux-tribe/) - 2023 Treaty Summit - hosted by Oglala Sioux Tribe's, 5th Member's Office May 17th, 18th & 19th, 9 am-5 pm at the Rushmore Plaza Holiday Inn, Rapid City, SD For more info - 5th Member Justin Pourier - , PH: 605-867-2439 CELL: 605-441-6922 Main Office OST - 605-867-5821 - [SD Game Fish and Parks May Commission Meeting - Thursday May 4th, - Friday 5th, 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-meeting-thursday-may-4th-friday-5th-2023/) - SD Game Fish and Parks May Commission Meeting Hyrid form - Thursday May 4th, - Friday 5th, 2023 May 4, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. MDT | May 5, 8 a.m.-12 p.m. MDT At the Event Barn, Custer State Park Livestream link https://www.sd.net/ Zoom Meeting Link https://state-sd.zoom.us/j/93912915359?pwd=K2FVZzdQSXJTY0NwWG5mSWpSazUwdz09 To join via conference call, dial 1 669 900 9128 - Meeting ID: 939 1291 5359 - Passcode: 0565645 The Event Barn is - [Climate Watch - Spring Season - May 15th-June 15th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/climate-watch-spring-season-may-15th-june-15th/) - Climate Watch - Spring Season - May 15th-June 15th Climate Watch – The summer and winter seasons repeat each year. Climate 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 about summer 2023, the latest season . May 15th- - [Virtual Public Meeting by BHNF & BLM on Proposed Mineral Withdrawal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/virtual-public-meeting-by-bhnf-blm-on-proposed-mineral-withdrawal/) - Black Hills National Forest and the Bureau of Land Management will host a virtual public meeting on Zoom to discuss the requested mineral withdrawal proposal. Time: May 11, 2023 10:00 AM in Mountain Time (US and Canada) Please register at https://www.zoomgov.com/meeting/register/vJItd-CvrDgpGopi4Wg6kprZZvsRWj1TL_k For more information on withdrawal proposal: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63876&exp=overview Comments are due on June 20th, 2023 and we have - [Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the new Bird Migration Explorer](https://phas-wsd.org/event/celebrate-world-migratory-bird-day-with-the-new-bird-migration-explorer/) - Celebrate World Migratory Bird Day with the new Bird Migration Explorer Thursday, May 11, 2023 10 AM - 11 AM PT / 11 AM-12 PM MT/ 1 PM - 2 PM ET/ Spring migration is fully underway and billions of birds have made or are still making their way to breeding grounds all across the Western Hemisphere. - [Comment Deadline for Cougar Hunting Rules Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-for-cougar-hunting-rules-montana-fish-and-wildlife-commission/) - HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on several proposals slated to go to the Fish and Wildlife & Parks Commission on June 8th at the MFWP headquarters in Helena, with them meeting starting at 8:30 am. The formal comment period is open through May 11 up till just before midnight. However - [Webinar - Chemical Exposures Across the Life Course, May 19](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-chemical-exposures-across-the-life-course-may-19/) - Webinar - Chemical Exposures Across the Life Course, May 19, 12:00-2:00 p.m. EDT or 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. MT Presenters: Duke University, University of Louisville, and Wayne State University SRP centers. The webinars are free and open to the public. You may register through the links below: https://www.clu-in.org/training/webinar/SRPPIR20/ NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) Progress - [International Migratory Bird Day - second Saturday in May](https://phas-wsd.org/event/international-migratory-bird-day-second-saturday-in-may/) - International Migratory Bird Day - is the second Saturday of every May. PHAS will celebrate it with our annual spring field trip to La Creek National Wildlife Refuge on 5/13/23. Link to learn about International Migratory Bird Day http://birdday.org/ - [Webinar on "Environmental Justice and Emerging Contaminants",](https://phas-wsd.org/event/webinar-on-environmental-justice-and-emerging-contaminants/) - Webinar on "Environmental Justice and Emerging Contaminants" Presenters: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, University of California, Berkeley, and University of Rhode Island SRP centers. May 12, 12:00-2:00 p.m. EDT and 10 am - 12 pm MT This is the 3rd webinar of NIEHS Superfund Research Program (SRP) Progress in Research WEBINAR SERIES. The webinars are free - [2023 West River Migration Count](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2023-west-river-migration-count/) - The West River Migration Count, takes place May 12-15, Fri - Mon. This was a national count years ago, and local folks have maintained the long-term count. The following counties participate: Harding, Butte, , Lawrence, Meade, Pennington, Custer, and Fall River. If you are interested in counting numbers of birds and species in these areas and have not already visited - [PHAS members Zoom meeting - Lilias Jarding speaking about mining threats to the Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nancy-hilding-is-inviting-you-to-a-scheduled-zoom-meeting-topic-phas-monthly-meetings-time-this-is-a-recurring-meeting-meet-anytime-join-zoom-meeting-https-us02web-zoom-us-j-85433920233pwdqmx/) - Topic: PHAS June monthly meeting - Lilias Jarding of Black Hills Clean Water Alliance, speaks on "Protecting Water in the Black Hills from Mining: Success Stories." Time: Monday, June 5th, 6:30 pm Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9yRmVON3VPU0dRZz09 Meeting ID: 854 3392 0233 Passcode: 534620 One tap mobile +16694449171,,85433920233#,,,,*534620# US +16699006833,,85433920233#,,,,*534620# US (San Jose) Dial by your - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society April monthly Zoom meeting 4/30/23](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-april-monthly-zoom-meeting-4-30-23/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society (PHAS) April monthly meeting 4/30/23 Our meeting for Sunday eve 4/30/23 will be about discussing PHAS current campaigns that are active and what actions need to be taken to move campaign objectives forward. The SD GFP Commission meets in Custer State Park's Event Barn on Thursday and Friday May 4th and - [Native American Fish and Wildlife Society - Great Plains Regional Conference](https://phas-wsd.org/event/native-american-fish-and-wildlife-society-great-plains-regional-conference/) - 2023 NAFWS Great Plains Regional Conference May 24- 25, 2022 in Deadwood, SD The 2023 Great Plains Regional Conference will be held Wednesday ,May 24- Thursday, 25, 2023, in Deadwood, SD at the Deadwood Lodge. May 23rd and 26th are reserved as travel days. Make room reservations as soon as possible to receive a special - [Deadline to send Written Comments to SDGFP Commission for May meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-to-sdgfp-commission-for-may-meeting/) - The deadline to send written comments to SDGFP Commission for the public record for May meeting -- is Sunday April 30th, just before midnight MT. This is if you post comments to the Commission's public web site. https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ Late comments go into the public record of the next meeting. You can also send comments to - [SD Ornithologist Union Spring meeting at Milbank](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-ornithologist-union-spring-meeting-at-milbank/) - The SD Ornithologist Union spring meeting will be held near Milbank, SD at "Abby on the Hill" in Marvin, SD. It is on the weekend of 5/19/2023-5/21/2023. The spring SDOU meeting focuses more on field trips. Go to their web site for more details and the schedule:. https://sdou.org/SDOU/NextMeeting.aspx - [BHNF National Forest Advisory Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting/) - May 17 is the next Forest Service Advisory Board meeting, assuming they get the meeting notice published in the Federal Register on time. Please verify the meeting before going. Virtual attendance is an option. Meetings are open to the Public. The agenda will include time for people to make oral statements of three minutes or - [Training on "Save our Streams" program of the Izaak Walton League](https://phas-wsd.org/event/training-on-save-our-streams-program-of-the-izaak-walton-league/) - Rapid City Chapter of the Izaak Walton League of America will be having a "Save Our Streams Creek Freaks" training this year! The trainings will be for one day and you have an option of going on May 31st or June 1st from 8 am to 4 pm. The event is at SDGFP's Outdoor Campus - [Deadline to File as an Intervenor in Wharf Mine Expansion Application](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-file-as-an-intervenor-in-wharf-mine-expansion-application/) - April 26th is the deadline to file as an Intervenor in the Wharf Mine's request to expand its' mining site. Intervention letters need to be sent postmarked April 26th to Wharf's attorney and sent to Roberta Hudson at DANR by midnight, I assume midnight CT. See SD Administrative Rule 74:29:01:18 for process https://sdlegislature.gov/Rules/Administrative/27571. The hearing - [John James Audubon's Birthday](https://phas-wsd.org/event/john-james-audubons-birthday/) - April 26th, is John James Audubon's birthday. The National Audubon Society and our chapter are named after him. Link to learn about his life: https://www.audubon.org/content/john-james-audubon Link to look at his paintings in his book "Birds of America": https://www.audubon.org/birds-of-america - [Leadership Forum on Mineral Withdrawal, BH Clean Water Alliance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/leadership-forum-on-mineral-withdrawal-bh-clean-water-alliance/) - 3:30 pm - 5:00 pm 4/2/23 is a leadership meeting with Bonnie Gestring. This is an opportunity for all of us working on mineral withdrawal in BHNF to regroup and share information after the April 26 public meeting -- and to get ready to move into the thick of the comment period. People should come - [Bonnie Gestring of EarthWorks speaks on Mineral Withdrawal](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bonnie-gestring-of-earthworks-speaks-on-mineral-withdrawal/) - Bonnie Gestring of EarthWorks will speak on Mineral Withdrawal in the evening - * Bonnie Gestring Presentation -- "The Real Deal with Mineral Withdrawals" - 7:00 pm at Dahl Arts Center, Rapid City. Under the 1872 mining law, the Forest Service can't say "no" to a mining proposal unless the area is withdrawn from mineral - [Comment Deadline to EPA on Lease of Gilt Edge Mine Superfund Site](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-to-epa-on-lease-of-gilt-edge-mine-superfund-site/) - Notice is hereby given by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Region 8, of a prospective lessee agreement between the United States, the State of South Dakota, Agnico Eagle Mines Limited, and Agnico Eagle (USA) Limited (collectively “Agnico”), at the Gilt Edge Mine Superfund Site in Lawrence County, South Dakota (Agreement). The agreement provides that - [Izaak Walton League - SD Division State Convention, May 5th-7th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/izaak-walton-league-sd-state-division-annual-meeting-may-5th-7th/) - Izaak Walton League of America - SD Division State Convention May 5th-7th The meeting will be at the Madison # 16 Chapter House. The address of the Clubhouse is 1001 Territorial Road, Madison, SD. Here is a link to their web page: https://www.madisonizaakwalton.com/, There is a on Friday night dinner and a Saturday lunch, a - [Rapid City Izaak Walton League Chapter Hybrid Meeting, April 19th, 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-izaak-walton-league-chapter-hybrid-meeting-april-19th-2023/) - Rapid City Izaak Walton League Hybrid Chapter Meeting, April 19th, 2023 6:30 PM at SD Game, Fish & Park's Outdoor Campus West, Rapid City Meeting agenda includes election of officers. Topic: IWLA April 19th Meeting 2023 Time: Apr 19, 2023 06:30 PM Mountain Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86892448142?pwd=bUM0V1VVdUZOZUY3dnVqOEFaTytrZz09 Meeting ID: - [May 12th, Comment Deadline scoping on Zeppelin Timber Sale](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-12th-comment-deadline-scoping-on-zeppelin-timber-sale/) - May 12th, Comment deadline for scoping on Zeppelin Timber Sale. This Zeppelin timber sale is about 2 miles northwest of Piedmont, 6 miles South of Sturgis, Scoping comments are due May 12th, Friday. Scoping deadlines are a little flexible but best to send in on time. Visit this link for details https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63845 - [BHNF - Comment deadline on 3 road & 1 trail repair projects in Northern Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-comment-deadline-on-4-road-and-trail-projects-in-northern-hills/) - 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 The 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. Three of these are about land owners - [Discussion of Meade County's wishes for Beaver Park Roadless Area](https://phas-wsd.org/event/discussion-of-meade-counties-wishes-for-beaver-park-roadless-area/) - As a subset of a Meade County Democratic Party meeting on April 20th, Bob Burns (former president of the Norbeck Society and former member of BHNF National Forest Advisory Board) will speak. The topic of Bob’s presentation/discussion will be “Meade County to ask USFS to consider management in Beaver Park.” Beaver Park is one of three Inventoried - [Bat Appreciation Day](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bat-appreciation-day/) - 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! In SD, especially the Black Hills, we have the northern long eared bat - [Gilt Edge Mine EPA Superfund Site - Agnico Eagle Mines, Ltd. Prospective Lessee Public Meeting w/ Monday sign up deadline](https://phas-wsd.org/event/gilt-edge-mine-epa-superfund-site-agnico-eagle-mines-ltd-prospective-lessee-public-meeting-w-monday-sign-up-deadline/) - Gilt Edge Mine EPA Superfund Site - Agnico Eagle Mines, Ltd. Prospective Lessee Public Zoom Meeting 4/18/23, at 4 Pm MT. The deadline for public comment on the proposed lease is 4/21/23/ You are supposed to ask to attend on Monday 4/17/23 and the EPA sends you the Zoom links. Thus I have posted the - [Wyoming Interagency Timber Industry Resource Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wyoming-interagency-timber-industry-resource-meeting/) - Wyoming Interagency Timber Industry Resource Meeting Thursday April 20th, 9 am - 3:00 pm. Lunch is provided. Location- Agricultural Resources and Learning Center, 2011 Fairgrounds Road, Casper Wyoming, 82604, Call by April 7th to reserve your spot, Kim Hemenway 307-275-6462, kim.hemenway@wyo.gov, - [Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/western-south-dakota-hydrology-conference-2023/) - 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 More details may become available as we get closer to the date. Registration fees for professionals are $75 and free for - [Comment Deadline Wharf Large Scale Mine Permit Application](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comment-deadline-wharf-large-scale-mine-permit-application/) - This is about another new expansion of about 46 acres for Wharf . Written 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 - [Norbeck Society April Zoom Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-april-zoom-meeting/) - Norbeck Society April 13 Meeting on Zoom The Society hopes you can join them for their monthly meeting Linda Black Elk, Ethnobotanist: Storytelling as Environmental Advocacy: 6 pm MDT, April 13 Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 Meeting ID: 881 7362 1695 Passcode: 577331 One tap mobile: +13052241968,,88173621695#,,,,*577331# US Dial by your location: +1 305 224 - [Comments due to SDGFP on Draft Prairie Grouse Management Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/comments-due-to-sdgfp-on-draft-prairie-grouse-management-plan/) - Comments due to SDGFP on Draft Prairie Grouse Management Plan April 10th The 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 - [Deadline Scoping Comments on Newark Exploration Project (mining)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-scoping-comments-on-newark-exploration-project-mining/) - Newark Exploration Project The 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. This 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 - [PHAS monthly meeting - On BHNF timber issues by Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-meeting-on-bhnf-timber-issues-by-zoom/) - This meeting will have as speakers Mary Zimmerman (volunteer from Norbeck Society) and Dave Mertz (retired forester, previously of BHNF). In 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 - [SDOU Field Trip at Outdoor Campus East (Sioux Falls)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdou-field-trip-at-outdoor-campus-west/) - SD Ornithologist Union (SDOU) field trip at one of the Outdoor Campuses led by Chris Anderson. > canderson1@sio.midco.net, 605-254-2550 There 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. Chris Anderson lives in Sioux Falls and has clarified - [Public Meeting on Proposed Mineral Withdrawal Rapid Creek Watershed](https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-meeting-on-proposed-mineral-withdrawal-rapid-creek-watershed/) - Public Meeting on the PROPOSED Withdrawal for Pactola Reservoir-Rapid Creek Watershed; South Dakota The USFS and the BLM will hold a joint public meeting on Wednesday, April 26, 2023, 4-8 p.m., Mountain Time (MT), at the Best Western Ramkota Hotel, Conference Hall, 2111 N. LaCrosse Street, Rapid City, South Dakota 57701. For more info.: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2023/03/21/2023-05659/notice-of-application-for-withdrawal-and-notification-of-public-meeting-pactola-reservoir-rapid - [April 2023 National Forest Advisory Board meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/april-2023-national-forest-advisory-board-meeting/) - BHNF National Forest Advisory Board’s (NFAB) April meeting 4/19/23 Normally 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 - [May 31st, Deadline to sign petition asking Biden to protect beavers on public land](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-31st-deadline-to-sign-petition-asking-biden-to-protect-beavers-on-public-land/) - ACTION NEEDED - SPRING/SUMMER 2023 Below find a link to a nationwide petition about protecting beavers on federal public (which is the short) and a longer more detailed letter (8 pages) signed by many environmental groups on same topic. Please sign the petition & read the letter. Sign Nationwide Petition on Beaver to - [Chimera Timber Sale Comment Deadline 4/7/23](https://phas-wsd.org/event/chimera-timber-sale-comment-deadline-4-7-23/) - 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. The draft EA is available for review by visiting the project website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=61689. The Forest - [Bear Butte Forum, Sturgis SD April 29th, 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bear-butte-forum-sturgis-sd-april-29th-2023/) - Bear Butte Forum April 29th, 2023, Sturgis Time 8:30 till about noon. It's at the Sturgis Community Center on 1401 Lazelle St in Sturgis, April 29th @ 8:30am It is for for Native Americans concerned about management of Bear Butte State Park to talk with the Bear Butte State Park staff. Non-indigenous folks are also welcome. Bear - [SD Game Fish and Parks April Commission Hybrid Meeting - Thursday April 13th- Friday 14th,2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-april-commission-hybrid-meeting-thursday-april-13th-friday-14th2023/) - SD Game Fish and Parks April Commission Meeting - Thursday April 13th- Friday 14th,2023 Start time 4/13 at 1 pm CT (noon MT) - End time 4/14 noon CT (and 11 am MT.) Agenda not yet published, but likely to begin at 1 pm CT on Thursday and last till 5 pm on - [March BHNF - National Forest Advisory Meeting -](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-bhnf-national-forest-advisory-meeting/) - 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 - [PHAS monthly meeting for February - Presentation by Meghan Carter, Staff for National Audubon Society's Dakotas' Office](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-meeting-for-february-meghan-carter-staff-for-national-audubon-societys-dakotas-office/) - This will be a Zoom meeting starting at 6:30 pm on Tuesday 2/28/23. Meghan 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 - [Earth Day, April 22nd, 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/earth-day-april-22nd-2023/) - On April 22, 2023 from 10am-4pm, the Rapid City Sustainability Committee, Dakota Rural Action, and Western Dakota Technical College will be hosting the 2023 Earth Day Expo and Celebration on the WDTC Campus. They are hosting this event as a part of an international sustainability partnership grant with Rapid City’s Sister City in Apolda, Germany. - [World Water Day, March 25th, Rapid City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/world-water-day-march-25th-rapid-city/) - World Water Day, Saturday, March 25th, Rapid City Abys 406 5th St. Rapid City, SD Black 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 If you would like to learn more about how you can help, please email edbhcwa@gmail.com - [2023 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2023-black-hills-area-botany-ecology-workshop/) - 2023 Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop will be March 10 at Outdoor Campus West, Rapid City. Zoom link https://tnc.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJwqdemtpzwpGNR80xThZtSl3LPTXGElCrN1 Amy at asymstad@usgs.gov sets this up. If 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 - [Great Backyard Bird Count 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-backyard-bird-count-2023/) - Connect to Birds, to Nature and with Each Other, Spend 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. Birds are everywhere, all - [March SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-sd-game-fish-parks-commission-meeting/) - 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 - [Deadline to submit photos to National Audubon Society annual photo contest](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-submit-photos-to-national-audubon-society-annual-photo-contest/) - 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 - [F.S. public meeting on proposed Newark Exploration Drilling Project-Custer](https://phas-wsd.org/event/f-s-public-meeting-on-proposed-newark-exploration-drilling-project-custer/) - The Hell Canyon Ranger District would like to invite you to a public meeting: The Hell Canyon Ranger District is seeking input on a proposed exploratory drilling project in Custer County, South Dakota. Where: Custer High School, Commons Area 1645 Wildcat Ln, Custer, SD 57730 When: February 16, 2023 (Thursday), 5:00pm-7:00pm Newark Exploration Drilling - [Norbeck Society February 16th Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-february-16th-meeting/) - 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”. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88173621695?pwd=eVlRZ3lSQ1BhUzVGUmN3akE0bTJ4QT09 Meeting ID: 881 7362 1695 Passcode: 577331 - [Piedmont (Foothills Area) Cracker Barrel](https://phas-wsd.org/event/piedmont-foothills-area-cracker-barrel/) - 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 The Piedmont (Foothills Area) cracker barrel hosts the legislators from Districts 33 and 29. 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 and a 20 or 25 minute break with snacks and then 1 hour of Q&A. Bob Burns will moderate. It is at the Piedmont American Legion Post - 2/18/23 from 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM MT. .------- This 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. -----The Post is located at 101 Pine Street and is at the intersection of Pine and Sturgis Road (North First St). It is on the southeast side of the town of Piedmont, travel about a half mile northwest of exit 46 (Elk Creek Rd Exit) on Sturgis Rd. -------This is the 13th Cracker Barrel in the Foothills Area. and we have the same 5 sponsoring NGOs. - For more information: 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, ======================= Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83023211094?pwd=RHp1ajFjYzJCQkpEcERiM2NqNWlOUT09 Meeting ID: 830 2321 1094 Passcode: 838526 One tap mobile +12532050468,,83023211094#,,,,*838526# US +12532158782,,83023211094#,,,,*838526# US (Tacoma) Dial 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) Meeting ID: 830 2321 1094 Passcode: 838526 Find your local number: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kbPOGV2GaP - [January SD Game Fish and Parks Commission Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/january-sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting/) - January SD Game Fish and Parks January 2023 Commission Meeting is on January 12- 13th. SD Game Fish & Parks Commission January Meeting Thursday January 12th - Mountain time: 12 – 4 PM MT or Central time: 1 p.m.-5 p.m. CST; Friday, January 13th 7 am-11 AM MT or 8 a.m.-12 p.m. CST: - SD - [Christmas Bird Counts December 14th thru January 5th](https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-counts-december-14th-thru-january-5th/) - CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNTS IN OUR REGION This is a list of Christmas Bird Counts in South Dakota and immediate parts of nearby states. It is created by Prairie Hills Audubon Society of Western SD. December 14th, 2022-January 5th, 2023 Christmas Bird Counts https://www.audubon.org/conservation/science/christmas-bird-count December 14th- January 5th Audubon's 123rd Annual Christmas Bird Count - [Winter Climate Watch Survey Jan 15 to Feb 15 2023](https://phas-wsd.org/event/winter-climate-watch-survey-jan-15-to-feb-15-2023/) - "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 - [South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting December 8-9, 2022 12PM MST](https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-december-8-9-2022-12pm-mst/) - 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 - [Public Hearing on Proposed Shooting Range Ordinance Meade County 10 AM Nov 22](https://phas-wsd.org/event/public-hearing-on-proposed-shooting-range-ordinance-meade-county-10-am-nov-22/) - Tuesday morning (10 am) Nov 22nd, Meade County Commission has a public hearing on a proposed shooting range ordinance for Meade County - The second reading before the Commission will be on 10 am on November 22nd, 2nd Floor of the Erskine Office Building, 1300 Sherman Street, Sturgis, SD 57785 SD GFP proposes to - [Meade County Commission Public Hearing on Proposed Shooting Range Ordinance Nov 8 10AM](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-commission-public-hearing-on-proposed-shooting-range-ordinance-nov-8-10am/) - Tuesday morning (10 am) Nov 8th, Meade County Commission has a public hearing on a proposed shooting range ordinance for Meade County - The first reading before the Commission will be on 10 am on November 8th, 2nd Floor of the Erskine Office Building, 1300 Sherman Street, Sturgis, SD 57785 SD GFP proposes to - [SD Game Fish & Parks Commission November Meeting Nov 3, 12 - 4 PM](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-commission-november-meeting-nov-3-12-4-pm/) - SD Game Fish & Parks Commission November Meeting (hybrid format) Thursday, November 3rd @ 12:00 pm MT - 4 pm MT SD Game Fish & Parks Commission November Meeting (hybrid format) At Heartland Energy, Madison | Livestream link https://www.sd.net/ Thursday Zoom 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 More - [Field Trip With Retired BHNF Natural Resource Staff Officer, Dave Mertz](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-with-retired-bhnf-natural-resource-staff-officer-dave-mertz/) - Saturday, October 29, 9:30 – 1:00 Forestry Basics – back by popular demand! Field trip with retired BHNF Natural Resource Staff Officer, Dave Mertz Prairie Hills Audubon Society is again working jointly with The Norbeck Society and the Sierra Club to sponsor a field trip to learn about Forestry. Terminology and concepts that guide forest - [South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting - October](https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-october/) - SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission will meet in Rapid City on afternoon of Thursday and Friday morning – it will be at Outdoor Campus West, Visit this web site for details: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ AGenda They only meet in the Black Hills two or three times a year…. Normally at CSP in spring and some place - [SD GFP Commission Oct. meeting - Deadline to send written comments](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-gfp-commission-oct-meeting-deadline-to-send-written-comments/) - The deadline to send comments in the SDGFP Commission for addition to the public record for the October meeting is midnight MT on Oct 2nd. Submit online at: . https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ Late comments go in the public record for November meeting. You can write Commissioners directly at any time, but it does not go into the formal - [Review of Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance Pennington County Commission, continued](https://phas-wsd.org/event/review-of-draft-hard-rock-mining-ordinance-pennington-county-commission-continued/) - Results - On Sept 6th, this review was continued indefinately. A committee comprised of 6 people from both sides of view might be created to discuss the ordinance. Review of Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance Pennington County Commission is on-going The Pennington County Commission continued the review of the draft ordinance from July 19th - [SD Game Fish & Parks Commission September Meeting (hybrid format)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-commission-september-meeting-hybrid-format/) - SD Game Fish & Parks Commission September Meeting (hybrid format) August 31-September 1 Sioux Falls/Zoom Information about meeting will be posted here close to the meeting https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ You can testify in person or by zoom or teleconference on Wednesday, probably at 2 pm CT. There will be a public hearing on proposed rule changes - [Northern Hills Forest Service Announces Solitario Zinc's Golden Crest Exploration Drilling Project - Public Comment Requested by Sept. 2nd.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/northern-hills-forest-service-announces-solitario-zincs-golden-crest-exploration-drilling-project-public-comment-requested-by-sept-2nd/) - The Northern Hills District of the US Forest Service has issued a notice that public comment is wanted on a proposed gold exploration project by Solitario Zinc called the Golden Crest Exploration Drilling Project. Solitario Zinc has asked to drill on the National Forest Systems land (NFS) for up to 25 sites on the west side of Spearfish Canyon, a - [Prairie Hills August Audubon Members Meeting - Tour Black Hills Raptor Center Sunday, August 28 at 1:00 PM](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-august-audubon-members-meeting-tour-black-hills-raptor-center-sunday-august-28-at-100-pm/) - Special Prairie Hills Audubon Monthly Meeting Sunday August 28,2022 1:00 PM Private tour of Black Hills Raptor Center for our Chapter See the birds up close and personal! Address: 15256 East Highway 44 4 miles past Rapid City Regional Airport, north side of highway. Drive yourself or meet at Knecht’s Ace Hardware parking lot at - [Black Hills Clean Water Alliance Open House - on Wednesday, August 17, at Black Hills State University's Joy Center Spearfish, SD 5:00 pm - 7:00 PM (MNT).  ](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-clean-water-alliance-open-house-on-wednesday-august-17-at-black-hills-state-universitys-joy-center-spearfish-sd-500-pm-700-pm-mnt/) - The Northern Hills District of the US Forest Service has issued a notice that public comment is wanted on a proposed gold exploration project by Solitario Zinc called the Golden Crest Exploration Drilling Project. Solitario Zinc has asked to drill on the National Forest Systems land (NFS) for up to 25 sites on the west side of Spearfish Canyon, a - [Seeking Public Input on Wolves of Michigan by August 4 and Minnesota by August 8](https://phas-wsd.org/event/seeking-public-input-on-wolves-of-michigan-by-august-4-and-minnesota-by-august-8/) - Go to this link for more info. https://wiwolvesandwildlife.org/2022/07/27/action-alert-give-your-input-on-minnesota-and-michigan-wolf-plans/ Wolves of Michigan and Minnesota Need Your Voice! The Michigan DNR is requesting public input on a draft of the state’s wolf management plan. The plan was created in 2008 and last updated in 2015, so this is a unique opportunity for advocates to make their voices - [5K Run/Walk August 27 for Black Hills Clean Water Alliance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/5k-run-walk-august-27-for-black-hills-clean-water-alliance/) - [PHAS July Members Meeting - BHNF Forest Plan Revision Assessments](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-july-members-meeting-bhnf-forest-plan-revision-assessments/) - PHAS July Members Meeting -Thursday, July 28th, 6:30 pm-9 pm Zoom meeting on BHNF Forest Plan Revision Assessments will be held from 6:30 pm to 9 pm, with Lou Conroy of the BHNF as speaker. The Norbeck Society and the Black Hills Group of the Sierra Club will co-sponsor the Zoom meeting with PHAS (Prairie - [Deadline File Objections to Jenny Gulch Mine Explore Approval by FS](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-file-objections-to-jenny-gulch-mine-explore-approval-by-fs/) - August 22nd, just before midnight is the deadline to file objections to Final EA and FONSI on Jenny Gulch Mine Exploration Project as Approved by Forest Service. 8/22 is 45 days from July 8th. Objections are due 45 days from July 8th publication in RCJ Jenny Gulch Gold Explore FEA & FONSI issued July 8th Link - [Rapid City Council Meeting August 1 at 6:30 PM - Support Resolution in Opposition to Proposed Mining at Jenny Gulch](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-council-meeting-august-1-at-630-pm-support-resolution-in-opposition-to-proposed-mining-at-jenny-gulch/) - Please testify at Rapid City Council Meeting August 1 at 6:30 PM in support of a "Resolution in Opposition to Proposed Mining at Jenny Gulch" or write/call City Council members. See contact info. of Council members: https://www.rcgov.org/departments/mayor-s-office-city-council/city-council.html Pat.Jones@rcgov.org, Jesse.Ham@rcgov.org, Ritchie.Nordstrom@rcgov.org, Bill.Evans@rcgov.org, Greg.Strommen@rcgov.org, Jason.Salamun@rcgov.org, John.Roberts@rcgov.org, Lance.Lehmann@rcgov.org, Laura.Armstrong@rcgov.org, Pat.Roseland@rcgov.org, mayorsoffice@rcgov.org This "Resolution in Opposition to Proposed Mining - [Comments on Lead & Hunting & Sport Fishing on FW Refuges due 8/8/22](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2022-2023-station-specific-hunting-and-sport-fishing-regulations-due-by-aug-8-2022/) - Monday, August 8th, - deadline for public comments on hunting/fishing and lead use in bullets and tackle on USFWS Wildlife Refuges Quote from above: "An estimated 10 - 20 million birds and other animals die each year from lead poisoning in the US per year. Lead poisoning occurs when animals scavenge on carcasses shot and contaminated - [Contact SD Senators about Recovering America's Wildlife Act](https://phas-wsd.org/event/contact-dusty-johnson-about-recovering-americas-wildlife-act/) - Recovering America's wildlife Act would appropriate almost 1.4 billion per year to states and tribes to spend on "at risk wildlife and plants". There are senate (S 2372) and house (HR 2773) bills that have both passed out of committee in 2022. It passed the House. We don't know when Senate floor votes will happen. - [Black Hills National Forest Seeks Comments on Forest Plan Revision Draft Assessments by Aug 1, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-national-forest-seeks-comments-on-forest-plan-revision-draft-assessments-by-aug-1-2022/) - Custer, SD, June 17, 2022 - The Black Hills National Forest is seeking public comment on the Forest Plan Revision Draft Assessments.Black Hills National Forest officials initiated the process to revise the current Land and Resource Management plan in October 2021, otherwise referred to as the Forest Plan. Forest Plans guide all resource management actions - [John Cooper Speaks at Black Hills Group Sierra Club Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/john-cooper-speaks-at-black-hills-group-sierra-club-meeting/) - John “Coop” Cooper, former cabinet secretary of the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks, will speak at a program on pheasant population status hosted by the Black Hills Group of the South Dakota Sierra Club at 6:30 p.m. August 18 at the Outdoor Campus West located on Adventure Trail in Rapid City (SD Game, Fish - [SD Game, Fish & Parks Photo Contest - Summer 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-photo-contest-summer-2022/) - July 25th is the deadline for SD Game, Fish and Parks to receive entries in its' "Snap Shot SD" photo contest - summer period. Photographers can enter 3 photos. Details: https://gfp.sd.gov/pages/snapshot-south-dakota/ Hyperlink to submit your photos from: https://survey123.arcgis.com/share/974b278e8ae749c3bd6e121781596252 "Deadline to submit photos for the summer period will be July 25. Voting for People's Choice will - [Pennington County continued hearing on the proposed draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-continued-hearing-on-the-proposed-draft-hard-rock-mining-ordinance/) - Where: Commission Chambers, 130 Kansas City St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA , The meeting will likely start at 9 am, but the Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance will be the last item on the agenda & likely won't be reviewed before 10:30 am (please check agenda when it is published). UPDATE FROM July 19th - [Hearing on Wyomings triennial review of cougar and wolf hunting rules- July 18-20th (July 19th)](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-send-written-comments-on-wyomings-triennial-review-of-cougar-and-wolf-hunting-rules/) - July 18-20th Commission hearing - Hyrid format Wyoming is doing their triennial review/rewrite of their Mt Lion hunting regulations, their annual review of wolf hunting regulations and also rules on take of non-game wildlife. The mountain lion and wolf and non-game sections will be reviewed on the afternoon of the 19th, maybe starting at 3:40 pm - [Pennington County Commission Hearing on Draft Hard Rock Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-commission-hearing-on-draft-hard-rock-ordinance/) - Where: Commission Chambers, 130 Kansas City St, Rapid City, SD 57701, USA (map), The meeting starts at 9 am, but the Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance is the last item on the agenda & won't be reviewed before 10:30 am. UPDATE - The Commission did not make a final decision but continued review of the - [SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission Meeting - July 7 & 8, hybrid - Spearfish & Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-parks-commission-meeting-july-7-8-hybrid-spearfish-zoom/) - SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission Meeting - July 7 & 8, hybrid meeting: face-to-face in Spearfish & Zoom. Meeting will run about 1-5 pm Thursday & 8-12 on Friday- at the Holiday Inn Spearfish-Convention Center located at 305 North 27th Street, Spearfish, SD 57783 THURSDAY - Zoom Meeting Link https://state-sd.zoom.us/j/93713121496?pwd=THN2QjNTNHpndEk3ZlRSb1g4RStwZz09 or join via conference - [Snapshot South Dakota Photo Contest Ends July 25](https://phas-wsd.org/event/snapshot-south-dakota-photo-contest-ends-july-25/) - Snapshot South Dakota Snapshot South Dakota is a department sponsored contest that is focused on capturing the beauty of our outdoor resources in South Dakota. Submit Photos 2022 Categories Wildlife Landscapes Outdoor Families Judging will consist of one “Best in Category” for each category and one overall “People’s Choice,” resulting in four winners. Rules Photographers - [June 13th - Draft Hard Rock Mining Ordinance - Continued Pennington County Planning Commission](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-23rd-draft-hard-rock-mining-ordinance-continued-pennington-county-planning-commission/) - ONGOING MEETINGS ON DRAFT HARD ROCK MINING ORDINANCE – PENNINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION UPDATE - Draft Ordinance approved by Planning Commission on 6/13/22 - Next Hearing at Pennington County Commission Meeting on July 5th June 13th @ 9:00 am - 1:00 pm It takes a while to review and write ordinances. In addition to Feb - [Pennington County Commission Hearing on Proposed Hard Rock Mining Ordinance](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pennington-county-commission-hearing-on-proposed-hard-rock-mining-ordinance/) - Pennington County Commissioners review of Hard Rock Ordinance - will be on Tuesday 7/5, Ordinance contested hearing is last item. The Commission meeting starts at 9 am, but the Hard Rock Ordinance won't be on before 10:30. It is the last item on the agenda and it will likely be considered before 3:30 pm, but - [Meade County Commission Public Hearing on Section Line Relocation at GFP proposed shooting range.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-commission-public-hearing-on-section-line-relocation-at-gfp-proposed-shooting-range/) - Meade County Commission Public Hearing on Section Line Relocation at GFP proposed shooting range (near Elk Vale Road and Elk Creek) at 1 pm on Tuesday June 28th, Go to Board docs for details and agenda of the Commission meeting, using this link. https://go.boarddocs.com/sd/meade/Board.nsf/Public 6/28 agenda is posted - go to 1 pm hearing and - [Nebraska Game and Parks Commission hearing on mountain lions and otter hunting seasons](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-game-and-parks-commission-hearing-on-mountain-lions-and-otter-hunting-seasons/) - Nebraska Game & Parks June Commission meeting - at the Holiday Inn Express 2605 Plum Creek Parkway Lexington, NE. June 17 @ 8:30 am - 5:00 pm All interested persons may attend and testify orally or by written submission at the public hearing. (June 17th, 2022) June 15th - Interested persons or organizations may submit written - [Zoom meeting on lead pollution from hunting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/zoom-meeting-on-lead-pollution-from-hunting/) - Wildlife for Future Generations, Zoom meeting. 6 pm Central Time on Thursday 6/16/22 US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) released proposed regulations that begin the process to ban lead ammo and tackle on National Wildlife Refuges across the country. The Biden Administration’s proposall lays the groundwork for additional lead prohibitions on refuges and provides a - [ND Game and Fish Dept Comment deadline (approximate) North Dakota Mountain Lions and otters sent to](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nd-game-and-fish-dept-comment-deadline-approximate-north-dakota-mountain-lions-and-otters-sent-to/) - North Dakota's Governor decides on hunting seasons after reviewing recommendations by the wildlife agency. Hunting season are set via Governor’s Proclamation (https://ndlegis.gov/cencode/t20-1c08.pdf) All proclamations are published online and can be found here https://gf.nd.gov/hunting/proclamations. The Wildlife agency will send those recommendations off in mid July. There is no formal comment deadline. We just suggest 2 - [Meeting Proposed Exploration Drilling Project Near Nemo Wednesday, June 8, 2022 from 5:30-7:30 pm](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meeting-proposed-exploration-drilling-project-near-nemo-wednesday-june-8-2022-from-530-730-pm/) - The Northern Hills Ranger District on the Black Hills National Forest is asking for public comments on a proposed exploration drilling project near Nemo, SD. The project would include up to 32 exploratory drilling sites to search for iron minerals on National Forest System (NFS) land. Each drill site would measure approximately 30X50 feet, for - [Forest Officials Seeking Public Comments on Proposed Exploration Drilling Project Near Nemo by June 22](https://phas-wsd.org/event/forest-officials-seeking-public-comments-on-proposed-exploration-drilling-project-near-nemo-by-june-22/) - Forest Officials Seeking Public Comments on Proposed Exploration Drilling Project Near Nemo The Northern Hills Ranger District on the Black Hills National Forest is asking for public comments on a proposed exploration drilling project near Nemo, SD. The project would include up to 32 exploratory drilling sites to search for iron minerals on National Forest - [](https://phas-wsd.org/event/4487/) - Test - [May 23rd Deadline to Comment on USFWS proposal to list the northern long eared bat as endangered](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-23rd-deadline-to-comment-on-usfws-proposal-to-list-the-northern-long-eared-bat-as-endangered/) - May 23rd is the deadline to Comment on USFWS proposal to list the northern long eared bat as endangered. Link to the Federal Register Notice: https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/FR-2022-03-23/pdf/2022-06168.pdf Link to USFWS press release: https://www.fws.gov/press-release/2022-03/proposal-reclassify-northern-long-eared-bat-endangered Link to 1/28/20 Judges order in a lawsuit, that forced USFWS to reconsider upgrading the bat from threatened to endangered: https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/species/mammals/northern_long-eared_bat/pdfs/Northern-Long-eared-Bat-Opinion-and-Order.pdf Center for - [2022 Endangered Species Day Celebration](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2022-endangered-species-day-celebration/) - Friday, May 20th Endangered Species Day Celebration -, by Zoom at 6:00 pm MT Scroll down for Zoom hyperlink and codes Speakers - 6 pm - Introduction by Sponsors 6:15 pm - Eileen Dowd Stukel - Senior Wildlife Diversity Biologist, SD Game, Fish and Parks - will discuss Recovering America's Wildlife Act (RAWA). RAWA exists now - [June 2022 SD Game, Fish and Parks Commission Meeting - hybrid](https://phas-wsd.org/event/june-2022-sd-game-fish-and-parks-commission-meeting-hybrid/) - The SD Game, Fish and Parks June Commission Meeting will be both by Zoom and face-to-face (In Aberdeen, SD) . The meeting will be 1 pm-5 pm MT on Thursday June 2nd, and 8 am-12 am MT on Friday June 3rd, Written comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/. The deadline to send in written comments - [Endangered Species Day National Chalk Art Contest](https://phas-wsd.org/event/4407/) - MAY 20th-22nd, 2022 National Endangered Species Day Chalk Art Contest W/ prizes In honor of Endangered Species Day, the Endangered Species Coalition is holding a nationwide, all-ages chalk art competition that anyone can participate in, from wherever you live. This event will help raise awareness of the importance of endangered wildlife, and the Coalition will - [Field Trip to LaCreek National Wildlife Refuge](https://phas-wsd.org/event/field-trip-to-lacreek-national-wildlife-refuge/) - Saturday May 7th, 2022 – Our annual field trip to Lacreek National Wildlife Refuge (near Martin, SD). Sierra Club & PHAS will be a co-sponsors of the field trip. We will meet at the Refuge Headquarter’s building at 10 am MT. CARPOOL RAPID CITY Some will also meet earlier for car-pooling in Rapid City at the East-side Family - [May 10th, Meade County Commission Meeting - Set date of hearing on Section line Relocation (shooting range),Hearings for Malt beverage licenses and Temporary Campground](https://phas-wsd.org/event/may-10th-meade-county-commission-meeting-set-date-of-hearing-on-section-line-relocation-shooting-rangehearings-for-malt-beverage-licenses-and-temporary-campground/) - May 10th, Meade County Commission Meeting - malt beverage license renewals and temporary campground permits. The hearings are expected after 10 am. Motion to set date for Section-line relocation (GFP proposed shooting range), to maybe ?June, 14th?, that discussion is before 10 am. Prairie Hills Audubon Society has opposed selling of alcohol too close to Bear - [Audubon Climate Watch May 15 to June 15, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/audubon-climate-watch-may-15-to-june-15-2022/) - Climate Watch is sponsored by the National Audubon Society (NAS) & will take place this spring: May 15-June 15 Climate Watch takes place during two distinct seasons—winter (January 15-February 15) and summer (May 15-June 15). Like the Christmas bird count this is a chance to help create “citizen science” for birds. Climate Watch focuses on these target species: - [IWLA’s South Dakota Division’s State Convention Huron - April 29th – May 1st, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/iwlas-south-dakota-divisions-state-convention-huron-april-29th-may-1st-2022/) - Izaak Walton League of America’s South Dakota Division’s State Convention Huron Events Center - April 29th – May 1st, 2022 Friday, April 29th 5-8 pm CT Social hour & brief SD IWLA Directors meeting Saturday, April 30th 8 am - 8 pm, CT, 4 presentations on 4 topics, chapter reports, lunch - [ONGOING MEETINGS ON DRAFT HARD ROCK MINING ORDINANCE – PENNINGTON COUNTY PLANNING COMMISSION](https://phas-wsd.org/event/wed-february-9-special-meeting-on-draft-hard-rock-mining-ordinance-pennington-county-planning-commission-500-pm/) - It takes a while to review and write ordinances. In addition to Feb 9th hearing, it has also since been heard on February 28th and will be heard again on March 28th, then April 25th, then May 23rd at 9 am before the same Planning Commission. When Mon, , 9am – 1pm Where Commission Chambers, 130 - [SD Game, Fish and Parks May Commission Meeting,](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-game-fish-and-parks-may-commission-meeting/) - The SD Game, Fish and Parks May Commission Meeting will be both by Zoom and face-to-face at Custer State Park events Barn, Hwy 16 A, Custer, SD . The meeting will be 1 pm-5 pm MT on Thursday May 5th, and 8 am-12 am MT on Friday May 6th, Written comments can be submitted at - [June 4th, PHAS Field Trip](https://phas-wsd.org/event/june-4th-phas-field-trip/) - Jedediah Beadle our Field-trip Chair, will lead a field trip on June 4th. Destination is undecided but we will meet at Outdoor Campus West in Rapid City at 7:30 am. Jedediah (207) 310-4665, jedediahbeadle@gmail.com; , Nancy Hilding 605-787-6466, nhilding@rapidnet.com, - [PHAS monthly meeting for April - Update on Mining Threats to the Black Hills](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-meeting-for-april-update-on-mining-threats-to-the-black-hills/) - Thursday, April 28th, 2022 6:30 pm MT - PHAS Zoom Meeting Update on Mining Threats to the Black Hills Lilias Jarding, Ph.D., Executive Director, Black Hills Clean Water Alliance. There has been a lot of new activity around potential large-scale mining in the Black Hills. There have been three new projects just in April! This presentation - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society Monthly Meeting - Late March](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-monthly-meeting-late-march/) - Topic: PHAS monthly meetings Time: Late March meeting , Thursday March 31st, 2022, 6:30 pm Speaker: Lori Brown of The Nature Conservancy (TNC) on Beaver and Beaver Dam Analogs To watch a recording of the meeting – “Riparian Resilience in Western SD Streams” and beaver and beaver dam analogs: https://vimeo.com/695026006 Join Zoom Meeting https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85433920233?pwd=QmxYUDMvMGRrNW9yRmVON3VPU0dRZz09 Meeting ID: - [March 31st - Comment Deadline DOE - Rare Earth Elements demonstration facility.](https://phas-wsd.org/event/march-31st-comment-deadline-doe-rare-earth-elements-demonstration-facility/) - The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) wants public input by Thursday, March 31st 2022 on DOE's plan to design, construct, and build-out a demonstration facility enabling domestic rare earth element (REE) and critical mineral (CM) supply chains . Under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), DOE is required to fund a Rare Earth Elements (REE) demonstration facility. The information being - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society Monthly Meeting - early March](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-society-monthly-meeting-early-march/) - Topic: PHAS Monthly Members Meetingearly March - Time: Thursday, March 10th, 2022 at 6:30 pm Speaker: Nancy Hilding will lead discussion, meeting to discuss proposed GFP Shooting Complex This meeting has happened - here is the link to the recording on the Zoom Cloud Link to recording of our PHAS meeting on the shooting range: https://us02web.zoom.us/rec/share/fzigSO30UXzwdpBtH-ZffibmOtVavO9AJH2LZJPtGHd-YDCfol2sehJd_LZW0BiB.iYuNRg2LdM8lsVwz - [USDA Forest Service Deadline for Spruce Vegetation Management Project March 25, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/usda-forest-service-deadline-for-spruce-vegetation-management-project-march-25-2022/) - The USDA Forest Service welcomes your review and comments on the Spruce VegetationManagement Project, a forest-wide project to treat white spruce (Picea glauca) stands. The Black Hills National Forest announced a scoping document for the “Spruce Vegetation Management Project,” which will involve the logging the largest spruce trees up to 25,000 acres including via 40-acre - [2022 SCORP: Public Survey for Outdoor Recreation in South Dakota](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2022-scorp-public-survey-for-outdoor-recreation-in-south-dakota/) - 2022 SCORP: Public Survey for Outdoor Recreation in South Dakota click here. . SDSU and SD GF&P are working together for the 2022 Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan and are looking for your input through their survey to help them plan for future outdoor recreation opportunities. Help the state of SD to provide the - [Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop Zoom on March 17 and Online and In Person March 18 Plus Call for Speakers](https://phas-wsd.org/event/black-hills-area-botany-ecology-workshop-zoom-on-march-17-and-online-and-in-person-march-18-plus-call-for-speakers/) - The Black Hills Area Botany & Ecology Workshop will be The afternoon of Thursday, March 17 will be all online (via zoom) and will feature contributed talks. The morning of Friday, March 18 will be online and in-person at the Outdoor Campus West in Rapid City. It will feature a symposium on Climate Resilience - [2022 Integrated report on Surface Water Quality. Deadline for comments is March 6, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/2022-integrated-report-on-surface-water-quality-deadline-for-comments-is-march-6-2022/) - The 2022 integrated report on surface water quality is out for public review. As water quality standards are a combination of beneficial use and criteria for various pollutants (criteria specifically set for that beneficial use), if folks know of water bodies whose beneficial use has not been specifically assigned, might want to complain about that. - [Great Plains Conservation Network Annual Meeting by Zoom February 25, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/great-plains-conservation-network-annual-meeting-by-zoom-february-25-2022/) - Great Plains Conservation Network Annual Meeting by Zoom February 25, 2022. Click here to register. Details similar to last years agenda. https://plainsconservation.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2021-GPCN-Annual-Conference-Agenda_post-conference.pdf - [Pactola Vegetation Management Project Comment Deadline Wed March, 2 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/pactola-vegetation-management-project-comment-deadline-wed-march-2-2022/) - Comment on - Pactola Vegetation Management Project, Comment deadline is Wednesday March, 2 Timber treatment to 2,947 acres - The Forest Service will be using a Categorical Exclusion: Section 605 of the Healthy Forests Restoration Act (HFRA)] Comment deadline is Wednesday March, 2 by e-mail for fax 11:59 pm by post, postmarked on that day - [South Dakota Legislature Session, Cracker Barrels Coffees Jan 11 to March 5 Subject to Change](https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-legislature-session-cracker-barrels-coffees-jan-11-to-march-5-subject-to-change/) - For more details go to our South Dakota Legislature Page To learn about session visit: Schedule General resource Lists of Bills Committee and Chamber members and agenda Dakota Rural Action, Sierra Club, Izaak Walton League, SD Camo-Coalition all have full or part time lobbyists. PHAS's president, Nancy Hilding does some testifying remotely. The above entities - [Audubon's Annual Photo Contest Entry Period January 12 to March 9, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/audubons-annual-photo-contest-entry-period-january-12-to-march-9-1922/) - Audubon's Annual Photo Contest Entry Period More information on our Celebrate Nature through Art Page Audubon Official Rules - [SD Legislative Cracker Barrel by Zoom Feb 5, 2022 at 2 PM Piedmont, SD Foothills Area](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-legislature-cracker-barrel-by-zoom-feb-5-2022-at-2-pm-piedmont-sd-foothills-area/) - Feb 5th, 2 pm Piedmont (Foothills Area) Cracker Barrel, by Zoom When - Saturday, February 5th, 2022, 2:00 pm - 4:00 pm MTWhere - It's Virtual - a Zoom Webinar.Who - Legislators for Districts 29 and 33 have been invited.What is a Cracker Barrel? - It's a moderated question and answer session where the public - [April 27, 2022 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference Plus Call for Speakers Deadline Feb 4](https://phas-wsd.org/event/april-27-2022-western-south-dakota-hydrology-conference-plus-call-for-speakers/) - The 2022 Western South Dakota Hydrology Conference will be held on WednesdayApril 27, 2022 at the Monument (formerly “Rushmore Plaza Civic Center”) in RapidCity. This email serves as an abstract call (speakers and posters), vendor call, and fieldtrip leader call for the 2022 conference. Registration information:Registration information will be available in February 2022 at the - [South Dakota Game Fish & Parks Commission meeting Pierre / Zoom March 3 to March 4, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/south-dakota-game-fish-parks-commission-meeting-pierre-zoom-march-3-to-march-4-2022/) - March 3-4 SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission meeting in Pierre/Zoom - [Audubon Great Backyard Bird Count Feb 18 to Feb 21, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/audubon-great-backyard-bird-count-feb-18-to-feb-21-2022/) - Audubon Great Backyard Bird Count Feb 18 to Feb 21, 2022 - [Deadline to Comment on Plan for National Guard to Assist with Shooting Range Construction Jan 28, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-to-comment-on-plan-for-national-guard-to-assist-with-shooting-range-construction-jan-28-2022/) - Deadline - January 28th, 2022 is the deadline to comment to John Kanta of SD GFP if you object to the National Guard assisting with construction of the shooting range proposal. Read more on our Action Alerts Page Email: john.kanta-state.sd.us If you don’t object by the deadline you waive the right to object A public notice - [Audubon Climate Watch January 15th-February 15th, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/audubon-climate-watch-january-15th-february-15th-2022/) - Climate Watch January 15th-February 15th, 2022 Climate 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). Like 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 - [Nebraska Audubon Crane Season Activities March 1 to April 7, 2022 Rowe Sanctuary & Kearney Library](https://phas-wsd.org/event/nebraska-audubon-crane-activities-march-1-to-april-7-2022/) - Nebraska Audubon Crane Activities March 1 to April 7, 2022 - [PHAS Monthly Zoom Meeting January 26, 2022 on Audubon Dakota Programs and Efforts](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-monthly-zoom-meeting-january-26-2022-on-audubon-dakota-programs-and-efforts/) - PHAS monthly Zoom meeting January 26th, 2022- Speaker - Meghan Carter + other staff, from Audubon Dakota, on the National Audubon Society's activities in SD and the Region/Nation Topic: Audubon Dakota - State Office Update Speakers: Megan Carter-Johnson & Amanda Booher from Audubon Dakota, The National Audubon Society's field office for SD & ND. Meghan & Amanda will - [Deadline For Comments January 5, 2022 - BHNF Timbersale](https://phas-wsd.org/event/deadline-for-comments-december-20th-2022-bhnf timbersale/) - Deadline January 5, 2022 - BHNF Timbersale The Black Hills NF issued a scoping notice for the “Woods Project” on the Bearlodge Ranger District in Wyoming. The Forest Service is proposing logging across 3,179 acres (~5 square miles) spread across a wide area which will include: 839 acres of thinning of mature trees only - [Christmas Bird Count Dec 14th Thru Jan 5, 2022](https://phas-wsd.org/event/christmas-bird-count-dec-14th-thru-jan-5-2022/) - All official counts will be held between the dates Tuesday, December 14th, 2021 through, Wednesday, January 5th, 2021. To learn more downloaded in PDF format at Scribd or Christmas Bird Counts - [SD Greater Sage Grouse Action Plan out for Comment](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sd-greater-sage-grouse-action-plan-out-for-comment/) - SD Greater Sage Grouse Action Plan out for Comment The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on the draft greater sage-grouse action plan. They have also released a new management plan revision. All individuals interested in the management of greater sage-grouse in South Dakota have from now through December - [Norbeck Society Update on State of Forest Jeff Tomac Zoom](https://phas-wsd.org/event/norbeck-society-update-on-state-of-forest-jeff-tomac-zoom/) - THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2021 AT 6 PM – 7:30 PM An Update on the State of the Forest ~ Supervisor Jeff Tomac on OHVs, Timber & Forest Planning The meeting will begin with a brief update followed by the main presentation. Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89253570312 Meeting ID: 892 5357 0312 One tap mobile: +12532158782,,89253570312# US (Tacoma) - [Oct 22 Jenny Gulch October 22, 2021 Comments Due – Jenny Gulch Gold Exploration Drilling Project](https://phas-wsd.org/event/oct-22-jenny-gulch-october-22-2021-comments-due-jenny-gulch-gold-exploration-drilling-project/) - The Draft EA is now available for the proposed Jenny Gulch Gold Exploration Drilling Project (Project). The Draft EA is currently available for a 30-day agency and public review period, with all Project materials located on the Black Hills National Forest website at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=57428. During this time, comments on the Draft EA may be submitted via US - [Rapid City Izaak Walton League Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/rapid-city-izaak-walton-league-meeting/) - Oct. 6 - Rapid City Izaak Walton League (Ike's) Meeting Izaak Walton League Rapid City Chapter meeting at 6:30pm. Meeting will be held at Outdoor Campus West and virtually. Join Zoom Meetinghttps://us06web.zoom.us/j/89844558721?pwd=cjJLSmdnUXhaSTVNQmh2S3R5ZHFBQT09 Meeting ID: 898 4455 8721Passcode: 123949One tap mobile+16699006833,,89844558721#,,,,*123949# US (San Jose)+12532158782,,89844558721#,,,,*123949# US (Tacoma) Dial by your location +1 669 900 6833 US (San - [c](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-commission-september-meetings-written-comments/) - Deadline for Written Comments - Saturday 8/28/21 at midnight MT SD GFP Commission Written Comments Written comments can be submitted at https://gfp.sd.gov/forms/positions/ or at https://rules.sd.gov/Comments.aspx?Id=669. To be included in the public record for September meeting of Commission, comments must include full name and city of residence and meet the submission deadline of seventy-two hours before the meeting - [SDGFP Commission Meeting, Rapid City Face-to-Face](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-commission-meeting-rapid-city-face-to-face/) - Wednesday September 1st (afternoon) - Thursday September 2nd (morning) is the next SD Game, Fish & Parks Commission Meeting in Rapid City at Outdoor Campus West with virtual & teleconference options More meeting details will be posted by GFP on this website just before the meeting and after the meeting: https://gfp.sd.gov/commission/information/ September 1| 1 p.m. - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s 8/28th Field Trip: Birding along Rapid Creek](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-societys-8-28th-field-trip-birding-along-rapid-creek/) - Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s Field Trip: Birding along Rapid Creek just west of Silver City Saturday, August 28th 2021 at 8:30am Folks can meet at 8:30 am - at the Deerfield Trailhead, just west of Silver City. ** Folk wishing to car pool from Rapid City gather at the north side of Founder’s Park - [Prairie Hills Audubon Society’s August Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/event/prairie-hills-audubon-societys-august-meeting/) - Topic: Mountain Lions in our Region - [5K Run/Walk for Clean Water](https://phas-wsd.org/event/5k-run-walk-for-clean-water/) - 5K Run/Walk for Clean Water, August 28th, 10 am orientation, 10:15 am Run/Walk begins Old Story Brook Island Picnic Shelter 2911 Canyon Lake Drive Cost $10.00 per adult over 12 years Light lunch to follow, bring your own cup For more info: www.bhcleanwateralliance.org Sponsored by BH-CWA, DRA-BH Chapter, Rapid Creek Watershed Action. - [SDGFP Elk Action Plan](https://phas-wsd.org/event/sdgfp-elk-action-plan/) - The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) is seeking comments on the draft elk action plan. All individuals interested in the management of elk in South Dakota have through August 16, 2021, to provide suggestions and comments on the draft action plan. A final draft of the action plan is scheduled to be presented - [Meade County Commission Proposed Shooting Range Elk Vale Road](https://phas-wsd.org/event/meade-county-commission-proposed-shooting-range-elk-vale-road/) - John Kanta at SDGFP knows about the shooting range. Engineering plans have been drawn up. As federal funds are sought, a NEPA analysis may be done. Nancy Hilding can e-mail you a PDF of thedrawings of Rapid City Firearms Range Complex SDGFP Commission's Resolution about land purchase can be found at link (The range will be in Meade not Pennington County): https://gfp.sd.gov/UserDocs/meetings/21-03_Resolution_-_Authorizing_purchase_of_Rapid_City_Shooting_Range_(3).pdf - [BHNF Moonwalk on Beavers at Jenny Gulch](https://phas-wsd.org/event/bhnf-moonwalk-on-beavers-at-jenny-gulch/) - The Black Hills National Forest will hold its second Moon Walk program of the year on Saturday, July 24 at 7:00 p.m. This will be a ½ mile educational round-trip hike. Because of limited parking, visitors are encouraged to carpool. Featured speakers Corissa Busse and Lori Brown, of The Nature Conservancy, will discuss the role - [PHAS Field Trip Birding Along Rapid Creek West of Silver City](https://phas-wsd.org/event/phas-field-trip-birding-along-rapid-creek-west-of-silver-city/) - Meet at Founder's Park in Rapid City at 7:45am (gather in north side of parking lot) to depart for Silver City. Alternatively, meet at 8:30am at Deerfield Trail's trailhead west of Silver City. ## Categories - [Uncategorized](https://phas-wsd.org/category/uncategorized/) ## Tags - [Audubon](https://phas-wsd.org/tag/audubon/) - [Wildlife](https://phas-wsd.org/tag/wildlife/) - [Mountain Lions](https://phas-wsd.org/tag/mountain-lions/) - [Birding](https://phas-wsd.org/tag/birding/) - [Fieldtrip](https://phas-wsd.org/tag/fieldtrip/) ## Event Categories - [Field Trip](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/field-trip/) - [Board Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/board-meeting/) - [Government Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/government-meeting/) - [Comment Due Dates](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/comment-due-date/) - [Miscellaneous Events](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/miscellaneous-events/) - [Membership Meeting](https://phas-wsd.org/events-alerts/category/membership-meeting/)