August 6, 2009
Emotional Landowners, Elk Foundation Protect S.D. Ranch
MISSOULA, Mont.—Up in years, Dolly and Harry Evans of Custer, S.D., couldn’t bear the thought of their ranch someday being broken up, cross-fenced, subdivided or developed. The place had been in their family for generations. In fact, their ancestors homesteaded nearby. The Evans wanted permanent protection for their land and they selected the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation to help.
The Evans and RMEF recently transferred 212 acres of Black Hills ranchland and wildlife habitat to the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department.
“Dolly and Harry took years to decide how best to protect their property. This was very emotional for them. But they’re looking beyond their own lifetimes and focusing on the fact that this land they love will always be much like it’s always been. It’s a beautiful, wild place and very productive agricultural land, and now that’s never going to change,” said Mike Mueller of the Elk Foundation.
He added, “We’re honored the Evans family chose RMEF to be part of their family’s legacy. I’ve been so impressed with this family—Dolly, Harry, their daughters and sons, everyone working together toward a goal of keeping open spaces for wildlife and for people to enjoy forever.”
Mueller said a crush of development continues to shrink wildlife habitat across the Black Hills, which makes the Evans’ decision even more special.
The transaction closed and all transfer documents were recorded June 15.
The South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department now manages the land as an addition to its adjoining Spring Valley Game Production Area. The acquisition expands public access and recreational opportunities including hunting.
“This has been a great partnership with RMEF and private landowners. This is the fourth acquisition in the Pleasant Valley area over the last 15 years with 1,450 acres conserved by RMEF and the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department,” said Dennie Mann, regional habitat manager for state agency.
The property also borders the Black Hills National Forest so the tract helps permanently connect a crucial corridor of wildlife habitat. Ponderosa pine-covered hills and lush grasslands are winter range for up to 300 elk. Pronghorn antelope, deer, turkey, mountain lion, coyote, bobcat and numerous other game and non-game species also utilize the area. The area is popular among hunters, sightseers and other recreationists.
Working with many landowners through the years, the Elk Foundation has completed 35 different projects to help permanently protect 33,467 acres in South Dakota’s Black Hills.