South Dakota Army National Guard Black Hawk helicopters will be conducting aerial water‑delivery recertification training this week in coordination with South Dakota Wildland Fire. The annual joint exercise helps crews prepare for wildfire season, and the Guard’s HH‑60M Black Hawks can drop more than500 gallons of water on targeted areas.
The training includes live aerial water‑drop practice with a simulated fire exercise on Friday, May 1st, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the west side of Angostura Reservoir near Sheps Canyon Road. Ground crews from multiple agencies will also take part.
Officials are asking the public to stay clear of the area so firefighters can train safely. Drones are strictly prohibited during the exercise and will force flight operations to shut down.
South Dakota Wildland Fire operates under the state Department of Public Safety.
