SPEARFISH, S.D. (AP) — The settlement of a lawsuit has resolved uncertainty surrounding public access to Spearfish Falls in western South Dakota.

The lawsuit was filed in 2014 by members of the Romano family, who bought a cabin and land near the falls during the decades when it was fully or partially dry due to the Homestake Mining Company's diversion of Little Spearfish Creek.

In 2003, the falls roared back to life when Homestake quit diverting the creek, and visitors started coming to the area. The Romano family sued to regain privacy and control over a parking area and bridge.

The Rapid City Journal reports that the lawsuit was settled in late September, with public access rerouted to another recently installed bridge. A new viewing platform also is planned for the public.

Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


See Also:

More From KXRB