RAPID CITY, S.D.─ The Bureau of Reclamation reminds the public fireworks are not allowed on Belle Fourche Reservoir and surrounding lands; including Rocky Point State Recreation Area, Belle Fourche Dam (known locally as Orman Dam) and lands directly managed by the Bureau of Reclamation.
“Federal regulation restricts the possession or use of fireworks on Reclamation lands and waterbodies," said Reclamation’s Dakotas Area Office Manager Joe Hall. “The permanent reservoir-wide restriction allows for more consistent law enforcement and greatly reduces the risk of fire at the reservoir," said Hall.
Fireworks are associated with a risk of fires and potential danger for visitors and adjacent landowners.
“The Reservoir’s large size and many remote locations often make it difficult for emergency personnel to respond quickly," said Hall.
For more information regarding this restriction or other issues pertaining to Belle Fourche Reservoir, call Jay Leasure, Bureau of Reclamation at 605-519-5504. For questions related to Rocky Point Recreation Area, contact Brad Nelson, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks at 605-641-0023.
There are 289 Reclamation project areas that have developed recreation facilities and opportunities available for public use. Over 100 are managed by a Federal recreation partner. Reclamation has approximately 6.5 million acres of land and water, most of which is available for public outdoor recreation. The 187 developed recreation areas managed by Reclamation or a non-Federal recreation partner draw over 24 million visits annually.
Source: Bureau of Reclamation
