The South Dakota House has approved a plan to transfer ownership of the historic Homestake Mine Hydro Electric Plant No. 2 in Spearfish Canyon to the Spearfish Canyon Foundation, with hopes of turning the 1917 facility into an interpretive center.

 

Situated by the popular Devil’s Bathtub trail, this site is seen as a remarkable "time capsule" of early mining innovation.

 

Majority Leader Scott Odenbach, R-Spearfish, highlighted its promise as an educational landmark showcasing Lawrence County’s mining history.

 

The plant supplied power to the Homestake Gold Mine for 85 years before closing in 2003, and earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places last year.

 

Deputy Secretary Scott Simpson explained that the Foundation is better positioned to preserve the facility’s legacy, and the land transfer includes a clause requiring public use.

 

Supporters hope to raise funds for much-needed repairs and revitalize the plant into a vibrant community resource.

Coeur Wharf of Lead, SD, will donate $10,000 to the Spearfish Fire Department this Thursday at Station 1, recognizing the team’s unwavering dedication to protecting Spearfish and its neighbors.

 

Community members are encouraged to attend and meet local firefighters and volunteers, learning about vital fire safety efforts and programs.

 

This support, highlighted by Coeur Wharf Regional General Manager Ken Nelson, reflects the company’s commitment to those who serve.

 

The fire department, staffed largely by volunteers balancing emergencies with full-time jobs, faces recruitment and retention challenges but remains determined to expand training and ensure safety.

 

A new four-story training facility is in the works, designed to benefit Spearfish and neighboring departments with advanced simulations and mutual aid opportunities.

 

As Spearfish grows—with new housing developments like Sky Ridge and East Side Acres—the fire department’s dedication remains central to the city’s safety and future.

Spearfish is rolling out its annual Urban Wood Utilization Program, giving locals the chance to pick up free logs and woodchips from city tree removals.

 

From January 5 through April 12, materials are available on a first-come, first-served basis between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. at the Bike Skills Park gravel lot by the City Campground on South Canyon Street.

 

Residents must sign a waiver, which can be picked up at the Rec Center or City Hall Parks and Rec during business hours.

 

Participants handle all loading and transport. Cutting is allowed on-site, but splitting or carving must be offsite.

 

This winter, Spearfish will also host its lively Chinook Days festival, featuring events like the Winter Carnival, Winter Luau, and Bonfire and Beerfest.

 

Additionally, a $30,000 grant will fund a brand new skate park at Spartan Park, set for construction this spring.

 

Residents are reminded to keep sidewalks safe and snow-free.