Natchez Trace Parkway Lowers Speed Limit in Sensitive Amphibian Habitat

Date: December 1, 2011
Contact: Dr. Lisa McInnis, [phone]

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.