Thune, Rounds, Noem seek more outdoor opportunities with state-federal land swap bill

Legislation introduced by members of the South Dakota congressional delegation on Thursday outlines a federal-state land swap that would create more outdoor opportunities in the state.

U.S. Sens. Mike Rounds (R-SD) and John Thune (R-SD) introduced the Senate version of the bill, while U.S. Rep. Kristi Noem (R-SD) introduced the House version.

The bill would give the state control of 1,468 acres of federal land in areas surrounding Spearfish Canyon and Bismarck Lake. In exchange, the federal government would take control of 1,954 acres of state land within four separate parcels.

“Tourists come from all over the world to catch a glimpse of our unique landscape and natural resources,” Rounds said. “This exchange will allow the state to manage more land near two popular tourist sites in the Black Hills — Custer State Park and Roughlock Falls, located near the Spearfish Canyon Lodge. I thank Sen. Thune and Rep. Noem for their work on this legislation, and I look forward to continuing to work with them and the state of South Dakota to see this transfer through.”

South Dakota has proven time and again that it can preserve and protect the state’s natural resources while offering outdoor experiences that attract tourists from across the nation, Thune added.

“I’m confident this track record will lend itself to creating similar opportunities in the Spearfish Canyon and Bismarck Lake areas once this land exchange is completed,” Thune said.

Like so many families in South Dakota, Noem said, hers is “enamored” with Spearfish Canyon.

“In the busy chaos of life, you can find peace and serenity there that is unmatched,” Noem said. “South Dakota has shown over and over again that we can provide access to sites like this while preserving them for our children and grandchildren to enjoy as well. I’m proud to work with Sens. Thune and Rounds to bring this state treasure under local control.”