Wind Cave to Replace Campground Waterline

Under a recently signed plan, Wind Cave's 75-site campground will receive a new water system.

NPS Photo

News Release Date: February 15, 2007

Contact: Tom Farrell, 605-745-1130

WIND CAVE NATIONAL PARK, S.D. - Campers at Wind Cave National Park will benefit under a plan to replace the current public water system. Constructed in 1964, the Elk Mountain Campground's existing system has deteriorated resulting in many leaks and non-functioning valves. The National Park Service Midwest Regional Director Ernest Quintana recently signed the Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for an environmental assessment written to replace the water system.

Construction on the new waterline could begin as early as spring 2008 and will involve installing a new storage tank, piping, distribution line, and valves. Work will occur in the off-season to minimize disruption to visitors. The project is expected to be completed in the fall of 2009.

Copies of the FONSI and environmental assessment are available at the Hot Springs, Custer and Rapid City libraries, at the Wind Cave Visitor Center, or on-line at https://parkplanning.nps.gov/wica.