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Sequestration Effects on the Parkway
On March 1, 2013, the Parkway was required to reduce its annual budget by five percent, in accordance with the sequestration provision of the Budget Control Act of 2011. Click the link to learn about visitor center, restroom, and services impacts. More »
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Portion of National Scenic Trail Near Tupelo Closed to Hikers
Part of the Natchez Trace National Scenic Trail (NOT the Parkway) near Tupelo, MS, has been closed until 2015 due to construction under Tupelo's Major Thoroughfare Construction Project. Parkway travelers may expect delays, but no detours are expected. More »
Natchez Trace Parkway Lowers Speed Limit in Sensitive Amphibian Habitat
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Contact: Dr. Lisa McInnis, (662) 680-4055
The National Park Service, Natchez Trace Parkway, announces a lowered speed zone on a two- mile section south of Interstate 20 in Hinds County, MS.In this area, there is habitat for many species of salamanders and frogs, including the state-imperiled Webster's salamander (Plethodon websteri).During rainy nights in the December-March breeding season, dozens of amphibians are killed by cars every night as they attempt to cross the Parkway.In order to increase the ability for these species to cross unharmed, a reduced speed limit of 35 mph at night, when raining, will be in effect. The NPS is working in concert with volunteer efforts by the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, as well as Millsaps and Mississippi Colleges to protect amphibian species.A lowered speed limit improves safety for these volunteers, as well as for passing amphibians.See http://www.nps.gov/natr/naturescience/slow-down-for-salamanders.htm for more information. The Natchez Trace Parkway upholds the mission of National Park Service to conserve natural resources in such a manner as will leave them unimpaired for future generations. |
Did You Know?
Over 100 different species of trees, including the Dogwood and Redbud, grow along the Natchez Trace Parkway.