A proposal before South Dakota lawmakers would transfer the historic Hydro No. 2 power plant in Spearfish Canyon to the Spearfish Canyon Foundation for preservation and public use.
House Bill 1052, sponsored by Rep. Marty Overweg, would shift ownership of the 1917 hydroelectric facility and 3.75 surrounding acres from the Department of Game, Fish and Parks to the foundation at no cost. Gov. Larry Rhoden has publicly supported the move, calling the site an important piece of state history with strong potential for education and restoration.
The plant has sat largely untouched since Homestake Mining Company ceased operations and the state took ownership. The Black Hills Pioneer reports Former Spearfish Mayor Jerry Krambeck said the building was essentially abandoned, with records and equipment left behind.
GF&P has made minor repairs, but officials say the structure needs significant additional work. If the transfer is approved, the remaining surrounding land—aside from a small DOT easement—would stay a game production area for hunting and fishing.
The site, located near Cleopatra Creek and Devil’s Bathtub, has seen a surge in visitors in recent years, prompting parking changes and concerns about overuse. Krambeck warned that the popular trail area is “being loved to death” and needs focused management.
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