22-Sep-2001 -- The closest we could get with a vehicle to 45N-102W
(2-1/2 miles SE of Faith, Ziebach County, SD) was about 1-1/2
miles. We started the hike about 7 AM. The terrain was rolling prairie, rough grazing land with numerous gullies and ravines. A few dry stream beds in the ravines were encountered that had to be walked around. The site was approximately 100 feet east of a barb wire fence--the indicative line between Ziebach and Meade Counties. The hike in took 45 minutes.
We were operating with 2 GPS's walking in a SE direction. When we arrived at the site, both GPS's agreed almost perfectly--a variation between the two of only 5-10 feet.
The day was partly cloudy with NNW wind at 5-10 MPH.
No cattle were present although lots of cow chips. Small fleabane and gumweed plants were still in bloom. The area had a lot of prickly pear cactus.
Significant to the day was the presence of patches of sweet sage. To the Native American people, sage is symbolic of good things to happen and success in what is being done. With the sagebrush there, all was well and 45N-102W had been found and documented.
We spent 30 minutes at the site enjoying the view and taking the necessary digital pictures. The walk back NW to the vehicle also took about 45 minutes.