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Date: November 10, 2009

Due to flooding, sand covering the roadways, and some erosion, both the Fort Pickens Road and J. Earle Bowden Way are closed to the public until they can be cleared and repaired, as necessary. Based on initial assessment, road damage appears to be minimal and roadways seem to be generally intact. At this early date, we are unable to make an estimate as to when the roads will be reopened. At Perdido Key, the Johnson Beach Day Use Area is opened to visitors but the roadway is closed beyond the main parking lot until sand can be removed. There is also damage to some of the beach crossovers. In addition to the roads, the park staff is accessing facilities at the Fort Pickens and Santa Rosa Areas (Opal Beach) to determine when these can be opened to non-vehicular traffic. Park superintendent, Jerry Eubanks said, “The Fort Barrancas, Naval Live Oaks (except the trails) and Okaloosa Areas of the Florida District of the Seashore have reopened to the public but visitors should be cautious when out-of-doors.” In the Mississippi District, the Davis Bayou Area with the 51-site campground and visitor center are reopened. There are downed tree branches throughout the area and visitors need to watchful. The Mississippi Islands are open to the public. For more information please contact 850-934-2600 in Florida and 228-875-0074 in Mississippi or go online to the park’s website at www.nps.gov/guis.