Sheridan Lake/Spring Creek 319 Watershed Project
The Sheridan Lake 319 Watershed Project involves the implementation of a TMDL study that was completed in the same watershed. This section of this project will take on the first of six phases. In this phase a 10 year plan will be developed to address stormwater runoff, livestock use and septic failures.
Box Elder Community Trail
The City of Box Elder would like to develop a community trail that would connect many of its existing and future subdivisions. The purpose of the project will be for community development, safety, health, and wellness.
Black Hills Water Temperature Study
Numerous Streams and Lakes throughout the Black Hills are currently designated as impaired by water temperature, according to the US EPA. Data collected from the last 10 years may suggest that the designation of the Black Hills streams as cold water fisheries may be the wrong management designation. The purpose of the project is to gather existing data, analyze it and draw conclusions as to the recommended managment designation for each body of water.
Agro-Tourism
The Stockgrowers Association hosted a course: "Agro-Tourism, Your Next Cash Crop." The response was overwhelming and had people on the waiting list for the next course. The course graduated 30 individuals and created 14 new businesses. Due to this obvious need for more education in Agro-Tourism, Silvia Christen with the Stockgrowers Association contacted Black Hills RC&D to help fund more courses. At this time there has been an application submitted to Rural Development for a Rural Business Opportunity Grant.
High Tunnels Project
High tunnel structures are used to extend the growing season for fresh produce which would be a welcome addition here in South Dakota. The purpose of the project is to promote the use of high tunnels and to train future farmers and interested groups in installing and managing the high tunnel structures. In addition to working with SD Cooperative Extension Services to host workshops that will train FFA, 4-H Clubs, and the Native American Tribes, a video will be produced that shows the teaching aspects of the high tunnel construction and management. The Black Hills RC&D recently submitted a pre-proposal to SARE to fund this project.
Spearfish Food Pantry
The Spearfish food pantry had lost their previous location and have been given permission from the City to move into the old Walmart building but a renovation of the space is needed first. They have raised $45,000 to date and the total cost of the project will run $115,900. Black Hills RC&D intends to work with Rural Development and apply to grants from several foundations to supplement the remainder of the funds.