CUSTER, S.D. – Custer State Park has been selected for a 2026 Hearts of STIHL grant to support ongoing trail restoration efforts following the devastating December 2025 windstorm.
Park officials say significant cleanup work has already been completed, with all trails reopened by May, but restoration efforts continue in areas impacted by downed trees and storm damage. The grant will help crews maintain and restore trails and other visitor-use areas throughout the park.
The December storm caused widespread damage across Custer State Park, including popular destinations such as Sylvan Lake and the Wildlife Loop Road. Recovery efforts have involved park staff, South Dakota Department of Corrections crews, and Department of Transportation workers.
The Hearts of STIHL program, funded by STIHL Incorporated and administered by America’s State Parks Foundation, supports conservation, recovery, and sustainability projects at state parks across the country.
Park officials have not yet announced the amount of the grant or specific projects that will be funded, but say the award will help continue recovery efforts and improve visitor experiences following last year’s storm damage.
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