Drilling proposal near Pe’ Sla raises concerns among Oceti Sakowin tribes

A proposed graphite drilling project near Pe’ Sla in the Black Hills has prompted opposition from tribal leaders and Indigenous groups, according to reporting by ICT. Pete Lien & Sons, a Rapid City-based mining company, submitted a request to the U.S. Forest Service to conduct exploratory drilling about half a mile north of Pe’ Sla, a sacred site for the Oceti Sakowin. The project area lies on U.S. Forest Service land and is currently undergoing environmental review.

The Oglala Sioux Tribe formally opposed the project in a letter sent to the Forest Service May 16, citing cultural concerns and potential disruption to ceremonies held at the site. Pe’ Sla was placed into federal Indian trust status in 2016 following a land purchase by several Sioux tribes. The surrounding Black Hills region remains subject to mining claims and development proposals under Forest Service jurisdiction. Public comment on the project closed May 16.