STURGIS, S.D. – The U.S. Forest Service is considering designating a portion of Little Elk Creek in Meade County as a Wild and Scenic River, and Meade County Commissioners heard from a former commissioner today about his concerns about such a designation. Alan Aker says the commission’s opinion on the matter is important. “And my reading is that local government support or opposition is one of the things they consider as they go through their process. So, I thought it would be suitable to have you all weigh in on Meade County’s position on whether this ought to be a Wild and—well, whether it ought to be designated,” Aker told the commission. “And I don’t claim to know everything that designation would bring. I think some places would like to have that on in their county as a tourist draw.” Aker shared with the commission boundary concerns, and possible future logging in the area as points of interest. Mitch Iverson, a planning consultant representing local Black Hills counties to the Forest Service, says this is only at the eligibility stage at this point. “We’re only at the eligibility stage at this point, so they probably will carry it into the EIS at this stage,” Iverson said. “The County could request that the Forest Service pay special attention and conduct analysis to see how that’s going to affect recreational use, whether it’s at Dalton Lake or any portion, so that the Forest Service clearly discloses what those impacts would be and possible costs, if they need to improve parking or whatever they need to do.” There are other Black Hills creeks being considered, but this is the only one located in Meade County. Some of the other creeks being considered include portions of Beaver Creek, Rapid Creek, Spearfish Creek and Iron Creek. After hearing from Aker and Iverson, the commission passed a motion to take a position in opposition to the possible designation. Commissioners will send a letter to the Forest Service and also wanted to let Lawrence County and the congressional delegation know their position. Share via: Facebook Twitter LinkedIn More