Proposed Blood Run State Park Accepting Limited Tour Reservations

[Rick]

SIOUX FALLS, SD - What is expected to be South Dakota's newest state park, Blood Run, will be open for limited public tours this summer.

Tours are being scheduled through the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department's Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls. Blood Run is located just southeast of Sioux Falls.

District Park Supervisor Eric VanderStouwe said the tours are free and have limited space.

People can register for the nature walks by visiting The Outdoor Campus Website or by calling 605-362-2777.

"This nature walk will be an introduction and exploration of South Dakota's newest nature area," VanderStouwe said. "The walks will be led by naturalist Edward Raventon."

Blood Run, at one point, had more than 10,000 Oneota people living there, making it one of the most significant historical sites in the region. The area will likely become the first new state park in South Dakota in more than 50 years.

VanderStouwe said tours are intended to increase the public's awareness and support of a place that Gov. Dennis Daugaard said is "South Dakota's top priority for conservation and resource protection."

At this time, the Blood Run area may not be accessible to people with some disabilities. A portable bathroom and limited water are available at the nature area. Closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, bottled water and bug spray are recommended for visitors.

For more information or to schedule a group tour, call the GFP Outdoor Campus in Sioux Falls at 605-362-2777.