Bear Butte State Park conservation easements - near Sturgis

Bear Butte is an exceptional natural landmark in western South Dakota just east of the northern Black Hills. Geologically the site was formed when rising magma forced the earth's crust to bulge. This uplift is 1,400 feet above the surrounding plains. Bear Butte has been a sacred site for Plains Indian tribes for centuries, including as many as 17 American Indian Tribes that worship routinely at the mountain. It is one of the most active Native American sacred sites in the United States and a focal point of their religious belief systems.

Unfortunately, its serenity and natural beauty are being threatened by encroaching development. The South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation needs the publicâ€™s help to purchase conservation easements from willing landowners near the Butte.

The significance of Bear Butte goes far beyond its traditional cultural and spiritual significance for Native Americans. It is a South Dakota State Park, National Natural Landmark, National Historic Landmark, a nature area, a National Recreation Trail, and an historic icon listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

In the late 1990's, commercial development related to the annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally began to expand east and north of Sturgis along highways 34 to the east and 79 to the north. Existing and proposed developments provide camping, racing, bars, retail outlets, and concerts for Rally attendees.
The area has seen the addition of several other "mega" entertainment centers aimed at providing total rally services to the largest market possible. These venues have also begun providing events and services beyond the time frame of the Rally. By 2008, development was approaching the boundaries of the Park, and private land owners nearest the Park could envision selling to a developer or entering into development themselves.

The National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 states "The preservation of irreplaceable heritage is in the public interest so that its vital legacy of cultural, educational, aesthetic, inspirational, economic, and energy benefits will be maintained and enriched for future generations of Americans." The objective of the South Dakota Parks and Wildlife Foundation is to purchase conservation easements from willing landowners adjacent to Bear Butte State Park to preserve the scenic integrity and tranquility of this unique heritage. A Federal program exists to provide matching funds for private dollars.

The more money that is raised, the more that can be protected. The most immediate need is to raise at least $350,000 to permit purchase of a conservation easement on a priority property.

Contribute online or, contact us to obtain more information.