Building a Dream

The idea of developing BHRC (Black Hills Raptor Center) began in 2010.  That is when John Halverson and Maggie Engler set about the task of reducing “nature deficit disorder” in their corner of the world.

Check back for updates and photos of the progress!  Enjoy the photos below of the progress on our dream.

Finishing Touches

How We Started

The Black Hills is a place of wondrous beauty, wildlife and outdoor adventures. Yet, kids were not aware of how much wildlife, and wildlife habitat, they could enjoy by heading outdoors and exploring.

Using native raptors, or birds of prey, John and Maggie wanted to ignite their own passions for the natural world in young people.

With your support; quality interpretive, educational programs; and a goal of creating an organization that would outlast them, these two ordinary people are building their dream.

Construction Continues

Developing The BHRC Dream

That dream is a state of the art raptor education and rehabilitation facility for western South Dakota, western North Dakota, eastern Wyoming, and northwestern Nebraska.

Using a combination of grants, major gifts, fundraisers, small gifts, your generous donations and in-kind contributions, the Black Hills Raptor Center co-founders are turning a dream into bricks and mortar.

Five acres of ground was purchased in April 2017. Installation of water, power, a mound septic system, and the approach from east Hwy 44 began in January 2018.

Construction Begins