Decision Memo Completed

Mine and Cave Closure and Restoration

Black Hills National Forest Lawrence; Meade, South Dakota Northern Hills Ranger District

Three abandoned mines across the Northern Hills would be closed to mitigate a public safety hazard and to protect bat habitat. In addition, a bat gate would be installed at Horsethief Cave and restoration work would take place to protect bat habitat.

Location

Three abandoned mine adits across the Northern Hills Ranger District and Horsethief Cave east of Nemo, SD.

Project timeline

1
Scoping Start
08/01/2018
2
Decision
08/2018 (Estimated)
3
Implementation
09/2018 (Estimated)

NEPA / regulatory detail

Categorical Exclusion32.2 (6), 36 Cfr 220.6(E)(6)
Special AuthorityNot Applicable / Other
Notice and Comment RegulationNot Subject to Regulations
Project ActivitySpecies Habitat Improvements
Mine and Cave Closure and RestorationDecision Signed Date: 08/24/2018
ForestsBlack Hills National Forest
DistrictsNorthern Hills Ranger District
Legal Land DescriptionNot Applicable
Minerals and geologyWildlife, fish, rare plants