The Rifle Lake Wildlife Tree Planting Project was completed here in Sanborn County in the spring of 1994. This project was a joint effort of several groups, implemented by the Sanborn County Conservation District. Fifty acres of trees were planted on a game production area owned by the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks. By preparing land, planting trees and cultivation the trees, it was hoped that an excellent home would be established for wildlife as well as helping to control wind erosion.

This planting was a Global ReLEAF Heritage Forest planting with all native species of trees and shrubs planted to enhance wildlife habitat with the added benefit of enhancing and beautifying the area. The planting was also to provide protection and be a food source for wildlife. The project hoped for and received a 90% to 95% survival rate with the use of tree protectors, replacement trees and cultivation carried out by Game, Fish and Parks over the course of three years. The trees have survived at an excellent rate with many being 10 to 15 feet tall. The species of trees that were planted are as follows; Buffalo Berry, Hansen Hedge Rose, Plum, Caragana, Russian Olive, Pear, Green Ash, Honeylocust, Hackberry, Chokecherry, Mulberry, Juniper and Eastern Red Cedar.

The planting has provided excellent coverage and food for deer, pheasants, grouse, partridge, rabbits and song birds. Since this tree planting was put on public land, many people have been able to benefit from the beautiful trees, along with the hunting area that the shelterbelt has created.

This site updated on:
January 18, 2008

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