The day we’ve been waiting for has finally arrived!

After a year of study, the Forest Service has released the draft Environmental Assessment (EA) on the Pactola Reservoir - Rapid Creek Watershed Withdrawal (Link to Project Page).

That proposal would protect more than twenty thousand acres of our critical and beloved watershed, including Jenny Gulch, which is threatened by F3’s proposed gold exploration.

What we need to bring this 20-year protection to fruition are YOUR comments, and those of your family, friends, business associates, and everyone who loves and depends on this resource. Those comments must be submitted by Monday, October 21st (Link to Comment Page).

AND, we’re having a party!  

On Tuesday, October 8th, join us from 5:30-8pm for the “Comment Jam” with live music from Mike Lemay, tasty hors d’oeuvres from Bashful Bison Deli, and cold beverages at Hay Camp Brewing Company, 601 Kansas City St. in Rapid City.  Join us to celebrate this milestone and this important opportunity to unify our voices to say YES!  YES, we want to protect 20K+ acres for 20-years, and more.

RCWA board members and friends will be on hand to run through the high points of the Environmental Assessment and provide tools so you can  make YOUR comment in support of the withdrawal. Then, sit back and enjoy the music and socialize with folks who rely upon and care deeply about the Rapid Creek Watershed.

Can’t make it to the Comment Jam? You can download and read through the Environmental Assessment/Fonsi PDF HERE, and we’ll get in touch again in a week or so to provide TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read) details to help you make your comment if you haven’t already.  And remember, you can submit additional comments if you forgot something. 

In the meantime, here is the important information on how to comment:

• Written comments can be submitted online HERE.  Be sure to fill out the form.  Make a copy for your records.
• Comments may also be submitted by USPS mail or hand delivered to Shawn Cochran, Forest Supervisor, Black Hills National Forest, 1019 N. 5th Street, Custer, SD 57730. Be sure to provide your full name, address, and your comment.  Make a copy for your records.  Their Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:00 pm, excluding federal holidays. 
• Comments sent by email will not be accepted.

Thank you for your ongoing support! We hope to see you on October 8th!

Respectfully, 

The Rapid Creek Watershed Action Team

For more information email us at [email protected]