Dry Tortugas National Park Reopens Following Hurricane Ernesto Closure

Date: August 30, 2006
Contact: Larry Perez, 305-242-7758

Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks experienced fewer impacts from Tropical Storm Ernesto than were predicted. Park staff is working to open all visitor facilities in the next few days.

With the exception of the Flamingo boat ramps, Everglades National Park will open its visitor facilities at 12:00 noon on Thursday, August 31. Areas re-opening include the main entrance west of Florida City, Flamingo, Shark Valley and the Gulf Coast Visitor Center at Everglades City.

Concession operations are expected to resume at 12:00 noon on Thursday, August 31. The schedule for tram tours at Shark Valley may be obtained at 305-221-8455. The schedule for boat tours at Flamingo may be reached at 239-695-3101. The schedule for boat tours at Everglades City may be obtained at 239-695-2591.

To allow for the completion of recovery operations, the Flamingo boat ramps will not open to park visitors until 6:00 a.m. on Friday, September 1.

Dry Tortugas National Park was not directly impacted by Tropical Storm Ernesto and will reopen to visitors beginning Thursday, August 31.

More information on park operations may be obtained by calling 305-242-7700.