Campground owner: Rally numbers could hit record high - KOTA Territory News

Campground owner: Rally numbers could hit record high

The 72nd Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally rolls into town in six weeks, but preparations are already underway.

And while all the numbers aren't available yet, one campground expects this year's rally to set records.

Rod Woodruff, Owner of the Buffalo Chip is hopeful the campground's newest additions will draw big crowds.

"New entertainment, we have an additional stage here, we have the museum exhibit, we have some art exhibits, and we have a bunch of vendors, basically a small rally right out here," said Woodruff.

And if Woodruff's wish comes true, this year's turnout at Sturgis Rally could beat last year's numbers.

"Reservations have been up every month since August. We have been up every month, set a record every month all year long," said Woodruff.

And if those numbers are any indication, the Meade County Sheriff's Office will be prepared for larger crowds this year.

We've just been doing it for so long, it just sort of falls into place.

Deputy Tom Wilts says, local law enforcement teams up with state and federal agencies to ensure the rally runs smoothly.

Preparations for this year's rally began more than a month ago, which includes beefing up patrol staff.

"We double up a lot of the patrol vehicles and the city increases extras that will work the streets. We increase our jail staff to handle that workload," said Wilts.

Wilts say many of those people he hires return each year to work the rally.

"It really makes it a lot easier for us. They understand what our system is how it works, so when they get here it's just bringing them up to speed and we're pretty much good to go," said Wilts.

While the reservation and vendor numbers aren't tallied yet for the 2012 Rally, city leaders are hopeful the turnout will top last years.

And Woodruff says no matter what, there will be plenty of entertainment at the Buffalo Chip.

"Food, beverages, music, entertainment, midget bowling, all that's going to happen right out here," said Woodruff.

Last year's Rally attendance hovered around 415, 000 people, which was down about 40,000 from 2010.