Proposal to Revive Backcountry Airstrip in North Dakota Badlands

Recreational aviation group seeks permit to reopen historic landing strip in remote region.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 11:39pm

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The Recreation Aviation Foundation has requested a special use permit from the Medora Ranger District of the Dakota Prairie Grasslands to reestablish the former Eberts Airstrip in Billings County, North Dakota. The airstrip was previously used by pilots and outdoor enthusiasts to access the remote Badlands region.

Why it matters

Reopening the Eberts Airstrip would provide private pilots and adventurers with a gateway to explore the rugged North Dakota Badlands, a popular destination for hiking, camping, and other outdoor recreation. However, the proposal has raised concerns about the environmental impact and safety risks of an airstrip in a protected wilderness area.

The details

The Eberts Airstrip was previously operated as a backcountry landing site for private pilots and outdoor enthusiasts to access the remote Badlands region of North Dakota. The Recreation Aviation Foundation is now seeking a special use permit from the U.S. Forest Service to restore and reopen the airstrip, which would involve clearing vegetation, grading the runway, and installing navigational aids.

  • The Eberts Airstrip was previously in use before being decommissioned.
  • The Recreation Aviation Foundation submitted its permit request in early 2026.

The players

Recreation Aviation Foundation

A nonprofit organization that advocates for the preservation and development of backcountry airstrips to support recreational aviation and outdoor access.

Medora Ranger District

A division of the U.S. Forest Service that manages the Dakota Prairie Grasslands, including the Badlands region where the Eberts Airstrip is located.

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What’s next

The Medora Ranger District will review the permit request and conduct an environmental assessment to evaluate the potential impacts of reopening the Eberts Airstrip. A public comment period will also be held before a final decision is made.

The takeaway

The proposal to revive the Eberts Airstrip highlights the ongoing tension between preserving the wilderness character of the Badlands and providing access for recreational aviation and outdoor activities. The outcome of this permit request will set an important precedent for managing backcountry airstrips in protected natural areas.