News Release Archive

Fireworks not allowed at Belle Fourche Reservoir

Media Contact: Patience Mosbrucker, 701-221-1204, mailto:pmosbrucker@usbr.gov

For Release: June 30, 2020

RAPID CITY, South Dakota - The Bureau of Reclamation is reminding the public that fireworks are not allowed on Belle Fourche Reservoir lands; including Rocky Point State Recreation Area, Belle Fourche Dam, and any lands directly managed by the Bureau of Reclamation. Federal regulation restricts the possession or use of fireworks on Reclamation lands and water-bodies. “The permanent reservoir-wide restriction allows for more consistent law enforcement and greatly reduces the risk of fire at the reservoir,” said Dakotas Area Office Manager Joe Hall. The risk of fires associated with fireworks has been a concern for many years because of the danger to visitors and adjacent landowners. The reservoir’s large size and many remote locations often make it difficult for emergency personnel to respond quickly. For more information regarding this restriction or other issues pertaining to Belle Fourche Reservoir, call Jay Leasure, Bureau of Reclamation, 605-519-5504. For questions related to Rocky Point Recreation Area, contact Brad Nelson, South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks at 605-641-0023.

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The Bureau of Reclamation is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of the Interior and is the nation's largest wholesale water supplier and second largest producer of hydroelectric power. Our facilities also provide substantial flood control, recreation opportunities, and environmental benefits. Visit our website at https://www.usbr.gov and follow us on Twitter @USBR; Facebook @bureau.of.reclamation; LinkedIn @Bureau of Reclamation; Instagram @bureau_of_reclamation; and YouTube @reclamation.