This interview originally aired on “In the Moment” on SDPB Radio.
On June 9, 1972, one of America’s deadliest floods occurred in Rapid City, South Dakota. Thousands were missing, and in the end, 238 people lost their lives.
Today, a 10-mile stretch of greenery in the city exists because of the flood. The Greenway now serves as a memorial to the impacted individuals and families.
Friends of Rapid City Parks is launching a new event to commemorate the lives lost. Greenway Days runs June 7 to 9 and will host a variety of outdoor activities.
Greta Chapman is the organization’s board chair and Nicole Uhre-Balk is a board member. They preview the event and discuss the importance of remembering the lessons learned from the flood.