HOT SPRINGS – The Fall River Ranger District invites the public’s input on the proposed Crowe Dam Habitat Improvement Project.

The USDA Forest Service is proposing to use prescribed fire within the Crowe Dam pasture on the Buffalo Gap National Grassland to enhance native vegetation while increasing habitat diversity for wildlife. Additionally, two administrative (not open to public use) creek crossings upstream of Crowe Dam are proposed to improve access for future management. The project is needed to manage encroachment of invasive, noxious, and nonnative vegetation.

This approximately 260-acre pasture is situated between Fall River County Road 7 and 7B. The pasture is designated as a Special Plant and Wildlife Habitat Management Area. Management is focused on maintaining and enhancing wildlife habitat and native plant communities.

For more information, or to provide input during the project’s 30-day comment period, write to: 1801 Highway 18 Truck Bypass, Hot Springs, SD 57747 Attn. District Ranger Julie Wheeler; or call: (605) 745-4107; or via project website https://www.fs.usda.gov/project/?project=63631 by clicking on “Comment/Object on Project” on the right side of the page. Additional information about the project can also be found on the project website using the link provided.