Opposition Surfaces To Protection of Sacred Native American Site

In his State of the State Message (full text) on Jan. 8, South Dakota Governor Michael Rounds called for the legislature to appropriate $250,000 to combine with other federal and private funds to purchase conservation easements on land around Bear Butte, a sacred site for Native Americans. However, according to today's Rapid City Journal, Meade County Commissioner Dayle Hammock opposes the easement plan, in part because it would improperly show government favoritism toward Native American religions. He is also concerned about using state funds to restrict private development. At a "legislative cracker barrel" yesterday, at least one state legislator said he would oppose the expenditure despite a plea from state Sen. Tom Katus to restrict development around the Butte in order to respect the spiritual values of Native Americans.