Despite environmental and tribal concerns, Noem applies for 2023 firework permit

Early bird gets the worm! Easter celebrations started bright and early at Mt. Rushmore
Early bird gets the worm! Easter celebrations started bright and early at Mt. Rushmore
Published: Jul. 1, 2022 at 3:32 PM CDT
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SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) - Gov. Noem has applied for a permit to hold a firework show at Mount Rushmore to celebrate Independence Day 2023.

The National Park Service has denied her permit applications for the past two years, citing environmental concerns and objections from Native American tribes. In 2020, a fireworks display, featuring a fiery speech from former President Donald Trump, was held at the monument after a nearly decadelong hiatus. A federal judge last year rebuffed the Republican governor’s lawsuit that sought to force the Park Service to allow her to shoot fireworks over the granite monument. Noem has appealed that decision.

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