Spring Creek Watershed

The Black Hills region has drawn 1.5 to 2 million visitors annually for more than a century. In combination with heavy agricultural activity, the waterways and riparian ecosystem, quality in the area is impacted while also reducing the user’s experience. In summer 2019, The Trust for Public Land acquired several parcels near the Black Hills National Forest. With over three miles of perennial stream and wetlands, the project supports ongoing state initiatives to improve water quality in the Spring Creek watershed, a tributary of the Cheyenne River.

Protecting this watershed provides cleaner waterways for native fish species, allows for improved fire control and prevention practices, and strengthens pest management efforts against further mountain pine beetle infestations. At the same time, the public will enjoy greater recreational opportunities and new hunting and fishing access at the base of Crazy Horse Memorial.