February Visitation Up 100% For Badlands National Park

Traffic counters at South Dakota's largest national park recorded 13,229 visitors for the month of February this year, a 100% increase from the 6588 visitors counted in 2001. Overall visitation for the year is up 41%, from 17,167 visitors to 24, 174.

March is the usual combination of winter weather and spring break visits, leading to increased concerns for visitor safety in travelling potentially icy or snow-covered roads. Those travelling through the Badlands this late winter and early spring are reminded that the speed limit on park roads varies from 25 to 45 miles per hour and is strictly enforced. Seat belts are also required by state law, as well as park regulation. Travellers should have winter safety equipment, including blankets, flares or warning lights, and water in their car. Many areas of the park do not lend themselves to cell phone reception. Anyone experiencing difficulty should call 911 for emergency assistance.

Questions on Badlands National Park and its activities can be answered by contacting (605) 433 - 5345 or by visiting the park's website at http://www.nps.gov/badl Click on "In Depth" to access the park's expanded website, which includes a electronic Press Room.