Celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks is a cherished tradition for many Americans, but in South Dakota, it’s also controversial. President Trump announced that fireworks would return to Mt. Rushmore in 2026, the first time in 5 years, despite possible environmental risks.
As the National Park Service (NPS) ramps up celebrations in honor of America’s 250th birthday this year, the plan at the historic site may be a harbinger of what’s to come.
The Policy
In a March 9 press release, the NPS announced that Mt. Rushmore National Memorial, located in South Dakota’s Black Hills, would host a fireworks display on July 3.
“After a five-year absence, the return of fireworks to this iconic national memorial reflects President Donald J. Trump’s vision of a ‘grand celebration worthy of the momentous occasion of the 250th anniversary of American Independence,’” the release said.
The public can enter a lottery from April 8 to 12 to receive a ticket to attend the event, which is open only to U.S. residents.
“In partnership with the State of South Dakota, we are excited to reinstate a spectacular fireworks show as the highlight of Mount Rushmore’s Independence Day commemoration,” Dr. Jenifer Chatfield, deputy assistant secretary for fish and wildlife and parks, said.
“We invite the public to enjoy the show and reflect on our nation’s remarkable journey and the great patriotic leaders who established, preserved and expanded our country’s destiny.”
The Context
Fireworks at Mt. Rushmore have been a political lightning rod in the past. From 2009 to 2020, there were no fireworks there due to possible wildfire risks.
In 2020, then-Governor Kristi Noem brought them back, despite objections. Environmental experts feared the wildfire risk was still too high. Some Native American Tribes, like the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, objected as well, as the Black Hills are a sacred site. Currently, 21 Native American Tribes consult with Mt. Rushmore, according to the NPS.
Then in 2021, Noem attempted to offer fireworks there once again, but the NPS denied her a permit. A long legal battle followed. Noem sued the Department of the Interior over the issue, and ultimately, a judge ruled in favor of the NPS, finding that it was within its rights to withhold a permit.
The Controversy
This time around, many of those same objections still apply. According to the National Weather Service, the Black Hills area is currently listed as under “very high” risk of grassland fires; fire risk may change as spring and summer progress.
This recent winter was one of the warmest and driest on record for the area. Rapid City received just 6.5 inches of snow, about half the normal amount. Studies show that low snowpack and early-season snowmelt correlate with a greater risk of wildfires and longer fire seasons.
A survey shows that from 1980 to 2016, fireworks caused 11,294 wildfires, with 69.7% igniting on Native American land and 24.6% on public land.
GearJunkie reached out to several Native American Tribes for comment, but did not hear back by the time of publication.
Why It Matters
The Trump Administration has invested major resources and planning into celebrations for America’s 250th birthday, with dedicated commissions and task forces. Public lands and the Department of the Interior are key parts, with many celebrations planned on them. The potential environmental impacts of these events are not yet clear.
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