By Brandon Bennett
STURGIS— As was mentioned, Lions Club Pond played host to the fishing derby, and participants took advantage of improvements made possible by a partnership between the city of Sturgis and the Department of Game, Fish and Parks. Sturgis Public Works Director Rick Bush was happy with the results.
“Lions Club Pond has been a cherished part of the Sturgis community for generations. It’s a place where children catch their first fish, families spend time together, and residents of all ages enjoy the outdoors. This project is about preserving that tradition while making the pond safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable for future generations.
The shoreline enhancement project includes the construction of three natural slate rock fishing piers along the south shoreline of the pond, similar to those found at Custer State Park. These piers will provide stable, dedicated fishing locations that encourage anglers to move away from the narrow strip of land adjacent to Lazelle Street, improving safety while creating a more comfortable experience for families, children, and individuals with mobility challenges. The project will also enhance the shoreline’s appearance, improve access to the water, and create a more inviting recreational setting that blends naturally with the surrounding landscape.
This project simply would not have become a reality without the vision and persistence of former Mayor Kevin Forrester. Kevin recognized the importance of investing in community spaces that bring people together and improve quality of life. He believed Lions Club Pond deserved to be enhanced and preserved, and he continued to champion this project because he understood what it meant to the residents of Sturgis. I’m grateful to have the opportunity to help carry that vision forward, and I believe this project will serve as a lasting reminder of his commitment to our community.
I also want to recognize the outstanding partnership that made this project possible. The City of Sturgis is proud to work alongside the Sturgis Lions Club and the South Dakota Department of Game, Fish and Parks. The Lions Club has been a dedicated steward of this pond for many years, helping maintain it as one of our community’s premier outdoor destinations. South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks continues to be an exceptional partner by supporting projects that expand fishing opportunities and improve public access to outdoor recreation.
Together with the generous support of an anonymous private donor, these partnerships have allowed us to leverage local and state resources to complete a project that will benefit the community for decades to come. This is an excellent example of what can be accomplished when community organizations, state agencies, private citizens, and local government work toward a common goal. I’m excited to see these improvements take shape and to know that future generations of Sturgis families will continue making memories at Lions Club Pond for many years to come,” said Bush.
