Stanley County has finalized a comprehensive public safety plan for the Boots & Roots: 4th in Fort Pierre events taking place from now through July 4, 2026.
In conjunction with the 250th birthday of the United States, thousands of residents and visitors are expected to attend a variety of community events including rodeos, a concert, a parade and fireworks displays.
Stanley County Emergency Manager Dustin Baxter said their goal is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, while maintaining emergency services throughout Stanley County.
To enable safe disposal of fireworks debris, the City of Fort Pierre has placed dumpsters throughout town where folks tend to enjoy using personal fireworks. These dumpsters– again, for fireworks debris– are located on or by:
- Verendrye Drive,
- Bad River Boat Ramp,
- 5th Ave. Boat Ramp, and
- Lily Park.
In addition to firework trash clean-up, everyone is reminded to please respect people’s private property when enjoying personal fireworks.
The National Weather Service will provide enhanced forecast support and severe weather monitoring during the week. A dedicated meteorologist will support operations from June 29 through July 2, with on-site meteorological support available July 3 and 4.
In the event of severe weather, the primary storm shelter is the Fort Pierre Expo Center, with the Stanley County Courthouse being a secondary shelter. Attendees are encouraged to remain weather-aware and follow directions from event staff and public safety officials if protective actions become necessary.
Residents and visitors can help ensure a safe celebration by following these important safety recommendations:
- Stay hydrated and take frequent breaks during periods of hot weather.
- Monitor official event communications, weather alerts and updates from the Stanley County Emergency Management and the City of Fort Pierre Facebook pages.
- Follow directions from event staff and public safety personnel.
- Use designated parking areas and keep emergency access routes clear.
- Wear life jackets during river activities.
- Report emergencies immediately by calling 911.
- Attend only authorized fireworks displays.
- Establish a family meeting location in case members become separated.
Sheriff Brad Rathbun and Fort Pierre Fire Chief John Meligan are leading the Unified Command effort. Should conditions warrant, they may delay, modify, relocate, suspend, or cancel activities in the interest of public safety.
The comprehensive public safety plan was developed through a months-long, collaborative effort involving emergency management, law enforcement, emergency medical services, public works departments, transportation partners, state and federal agencies, event organizers, community stakeholders, and fire and rescue agencies.
The operational plan addresses a wide range of potential incidents, including severe weather, fire and medical emergencies, traffic management, crowd safety, river-related incidents, missing persons, family reunification, evacuation procedures, and shelter operations.
First Net by AT&T is providing standby emergency cell service for the duration of the Boots & Roots celebration. Sheriff Brad Rathbun said First Net’s backup option will allow constant emergency communications in the event that normal emergency communications are unavailable.
Courtesy photo.
Courtesy photo.
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