GFP News - June 21, 2012

  • Farm Island Trails Re-Open After Construction Project
  • State Park Visitors Should Leave Fireworks at Home
  • Celebrate Independence Day with S.D. State Park Events
  • Celebrate a Traditional Independence Day at Historic Fort Sisseton
  • Trolley Rides Allow Those With Physical Limitations to Experience the Mickelson Trail

Farm Island Trails Re-Open After Construction Project

PIERRE, S.D. - The trails on Farm Island Recreation Area near Pierre re-opened this week after a seven-week reconstruction project.

Trails on the island suffered extensive damage in last summer's Missouri River flooding.

"The trails look great," said Park Supervisor Ryan Raynor. "We're still finishing up some tree trimming and adding the final touches, but the trails are open."

The trails, popular with birders, bikers and hikers, are 2.2 miles long.

For more information contact Farm Island Recreation Area at 605-773-2885.

-GFP-

State Park Visitors Should Leave Fireworks at Home

PIERRE, S.D. - The upcoming Fourth of July holiday is always a busy time in South Dakota's state parks and recreation areas. As you celebrate, Game, Fish and Parks Department officials ask you to please leave fireworks at home.

According to Doug Hofer, state parks and recreation director, campgrounds are traditionally very busy with campers and other visitors enjoying the parks during the Independence Day period.

"Combining fireworks and large numbers of people creates a dangerous situation," said Hofer. "We appreciate your help to keep the parks safe and fun this Fourth of July."

Discharging fireworks is prohibited on all lands owned or leased by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks. The ban includes state parks, recreation areas, lakeside use areas, game production areas and nature areas. Discharging fireworks is also illegal within the boundaries of the Black Hills Forest Fire Protection District, national forests and national parks in South Dakota.

For more information on the South Dakota State Parks, visit www.gfp.sd.gov or call 605-773-3391.

-GFP-

Celebrate Independence Day with S.D. State Park Events

PIERRE, S.D. - The Fourth of July is always a busy time at state parks across South Dakota. If you are planning to be at a state park during the holiday period, make plans to attend one of the following events.

There is no cost to participate in any of the events, although park entrance licenses are required. Visitors are encouraged to dress according to the weather. All participants in the bike parades are encouraged to wear helmets and appropriate shoes.

For more information on activities in South Dakota state parks, visit www.gfp.sd.gov , contact the individual park office, or call 605-773-3391.

-GFP-

Celebrate a Traditional Independence Day at Historic Fort Sisseton

FORT SISSETON HISTORIC STATE PARK, S.D. - Fort Sisseton Historic State Park will be hosting its Independence Day commemoration in classic style on July 4th  from 1 to 4 p.m. CDT.

A number of activities and interpretive programs will be offered for all ages, including games and crafts, blacksmithing, soap making, and making ice cream the old-fashioned way. Throughout the day, tours will be available. The Visitor Center, Museum and Gift Shop will be open.

"This is the sixth annual Fourth of July celebration at the fort," says Park Manager Katie Ceroll. "The 2012 lineup looks great and should be a wonderful opportunity for families that are seeking a day filled with something for everyone."

There is no charge for the event; however, park entrance fees are required. For more information contact Fort Sisseton at 605-448-5474.

Fort Sisseton Historic State Park is located 10 miles southwest of Lake City, off Highway 10.

*Ceroll (sur-ROHL)

-GFP-

Trolley Rides Allow Those With Physical Limitations to Experience the Mickelson Trail

DEADWOOD, S.D. - Black Hills visitors with physical limitations have an opportunity to view the Mickelson Trail by trolley on Tuesday, July 3, and Wednesday, July 11.

The trolley leaves at 1 p.m. MDT from the Deadwood Trailhead on July 3 and tours the Mickelson Trail from Englewood to Rochford. To reserve a spot on the tour, call 605-578-1401.

The July 11 trolley leaves from the Hill City Trailhead at 10 a.m. and tours the trail from Hill City to Mystic.  Reserve a spot by calling the Hill City Chamber at 1-800-888-1798.

Riders will learn about the history of the railroad and the inception of the trail. The rides are about four hours long.
"The trolley rides are an excellent way for people with physical limitations to get out and experience the Mickelson Trail," says Dana Garry, trail manager. "Everyone has a wonderful time and learns a little about the trail."

Reservations are required. Each person reserving a space on the trolley will be required to have a handicapped parking permit. One assistant is allowed to accompany the person, if needed. The trolley has space available for up to two people who use wheelchairs.

The trolley rides are a combined effort of the Hill City and Deadwood Chambers of Commerce; Neighborhood Housing; South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department; and the City of Deadwood.

For more information, contact the Mickelson Trail office at 605-584-3896.

-GFP-