Ancient Native American Petroglyphs of Craven Canyon, South Dakota

A state permit hearing regarding a proposal to drill exploratory uranium holes near Craven Canyon in the southern Black Hills of South Dakota has been postponed until May.

Clean Nuclear Energy Corporation and its parent company, Nexus Uranium, applied in March 2024 to conduct drilling on state land located in Fall River County. The drilling is part of a larger initiative known as the Chord project.

The permit hearing was originally scheduled to begin on April 13, 2026, in Hot Springs. However, a notice issued on April 7, 2026, announced that the proceeding would be postponed.

Cultural and Environmental Concerns

The proposed exploration has drawn opposition from more than 40 individuals and organizations. Opponents state that the project threatens an area near ancient Native American rock art and could negatively impact water resources and other culturally significant sites.

Craven Canyon, situated eight miles north of Edgemont, South Dakota, is known for ancient petroglyphs carved into the rock. Unlike other regional sites such as Wind Cave, Harney Peak, Bear Butte, and Devils Tower, the canyon is not typically exposed to heavy tourist traffic.

The broader Chord project has also faced significant public scrutiny. The U.S. Forest Service has received nearly 1,000 public comments regarding the project, including opposition from six tribal nations.

Company Response

Jeremy Poirier, the CEO of Nexus Uranium, has addressed the concerns regarding the site’s cultural assets. Poirier stated that the company’s project would not affect Craven Canyon.