Sturgis-Area Reservoirs Could Soon Open to Public Use

STURGIS, S.D. (AP) — The city of Sturgis is developing plans to open a pristine area south of the city to non-motorized uses including hiking, fishing and primitive camping.

But the idea is upsetting to Davenport family heirs who have cabins on private property near four small reservoirs that are nestled in a steep, forested canyon.

The reservoirs date to 1891, when Joseph Davenport started a water company to serve Sturgis. The family sold the water system and reservoirs to the city in 1978 but retained some parcels of land.

Heir Katherine Martel, of Albany, New York, tells the Rapid City Journal that wide-open public access will degrade the area.

Supporters of opening the area to public use say it would improve the community and also boost the local economy.

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