STURGIS, S.D. – The Meade County Commission has voted to oppose a proposal that could designate a portion of Little Elk Creek as a federal Wild and Scenic River.
The discussion came after former commissioner Alan Aker urged county leaders to weigh in, arguing that local government input could play an important role as the U.S. Forest Service evaluates the designation. Aker raised concerns about future land management, boundary issues, and how the designation could affect activities such as logging in the area.
Planning consultant Mitch Iverson, who works with Black Hills counties on Forest Service issues, told commissioners the proposal is still in the eligibility review stage. He noted that additional environmental analysis would likely be conducted before any final decision is made and suggested the county request further study of potential impacts on recreation and infrastructure.
Little Elk Creek is the only Meade County waterway currently under consideration, although portions of Beaver Creek, Rapid Creek, Spearfish Creek, and Iron Creek are also being evaluated elsewhere in the Black Hills.
Following the discussion, commissioners approved a motion formally opposing the possible designation. The county plans to send a letter outlining its position to the U.S. Forest Service and notify neighboring Lawrence County as well as South Dakota’s congressional delegation.
