Superintendent's Compendium

 

Authority

In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations (“36 CFR”), Chapter 1, Parts 107, authorized by Title 54 United States Code, the following provisions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service, within the boundaries of Natchez National Historical Park. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1, Parts 1-7.

Written determinations, which explain the reasoning behind the Superintendent’s use of discretionary authority, as required by Section 1.5(c) appear in this document identified by italicized print.

I. 36 CFR §1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES, AND AREA DESIGNATIONS FOR SPECIFIC USE OR ACTIVITIES

(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park.

Visiting Hours

• The park is open to public use during daylight hours only. Daylight hours are defined as one-half hour after sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. The park facilities will be closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s days.
  • The Melrose Visitor Center will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • The Natchez Visitor Center will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except onSundays when the facility closes at 4:00 p.m.
  • The Fort Rosalie site is open daily during daylight hours.
  • The exhibit area at the Forks of the Road site is open daily during daylight hours.

In consideration of the purpose for which the park was established, routine visitor use is restricted to daylight hours. The superintendent will review and consider written requests for after-hours uses of the park.

Closures

• The William Johnson House site is currently closed to the public. Preservation needs of the structures make the area unsafe for public access.
• All newly-acquired NPS tracts at Forks of the Road other than the exhibit area are closed to the public. These areas are not safe for public access.
• Unless specifically authorized, the following activities are prohibited.
  • Launching model rockets
  • Flying powered model aircraft
  • Operating unmanned aircraft including drones
  • Releasing domestic birds
  • Sunbathing
  • Hitting golf balls or use of golf clubs
  • Washing, waxing, or repairing motor vehicles
  • Easter egg or treasure hunts
  • Geocaching, Earth caching, and other similar pursuits utilizing Global Positioning Systems that cache a real object.

Certain recreational uses are prohibited as they detract from the significance and purpose of the park. These uses also create the potential for visual intrusion of the historic scene. The use of the park for organized athletic events or competitive recreational events is not generally compatible with the significance and purpose of the park.

(a)(2) Restrictions on activities within park areas for the maintenance of public health and safety.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is LOW or MEDIUM in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), individuals are not required to wear masks.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in the county or all the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, all individuals over the age of two must wear masks, regardless of vaccination status, in all common areas and shared workspaces in buildings owned, leased, or otherwise controlled by the National Park Service, including, but not limited to, park visitor centers, administrative offices, lodges, gift shops and restaurants.

When the COVID-19 Community Level is HIGH in one or more, but not all, of the counties where the park is located based on data provided by the CDC, the superintendent will determine whether individuals are required to wear masks. The requirement, if any, will apply to all facilities within the park. Masks must cover the nose and mouth and fit snugly around the nose and chin with no large gaps around the sides of the face. Masks not designed to be protective, masks with ventilation valves, and face shields do not meet the requirement.

Regardless of the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals may wear masks if they choose to do so. Where a state, local, tribal, or territorial government where the park is located imposes more protective mask-wearing requirements than those indicated by the COVID-19 Community Level, individuals must follow those more protective requirements within the park. More protective state, local, tribal, or territorial mask-wearing requirements are hereby adopted as federal requirements in all units of the National Park System located within that state, locality, area subject to a federally recognized Indian tribe’s regulatory jurisdiction, or territory, regardless of a particular park’s jurisdictional status.

Additionally, all individuals must wear masks in or on public transportation conveyances and transportation hubs/facilities, to the extent required by current orders or directives issued by the CDC, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), or other federal agencies with jurisdiction over those conveyances or areas. As of March 4, 2022, CDC and TSA orders or directives require all individuals regardless of vaccination status to wearmasks in indoor areas of all forms of public transportation conveyances, including busses, trains, andboats/ferries, and in the indoor premises of transportation hubs/facilities. Individuals are not required to wear masks while outdoors on conveyances or while outdoors on the premises of transportation hubs/facilities.

The following areas have been designated for a specific use or activity, under the conditions and/or restrictions as noted:

Picnicking:

• Fort Rosalie Picnic Area.
• Melrose Picnic Area.
• Natchez Visitor Center Courtyard.

Picnicking, as well as other types of recreational activities are inconsistent with the legislative intent of the park. Visitors expect areas set aside for the consumption of food and drinks, and the park has accommodated this expectation at the Fort Rosalie and Melrose Picnic areas and the Natchez Visitor Center courtyard

Kite flying and Frisbee throwing:

• Fort Rosalie Picnic Area.
• Melrose Picnic Area and Front Field.

Given the existing infrastructure, these picnic areas and the large front field on the Melrose estate outside of the fence that defines the front lawn of the mansion seem the reasonable place to allow these recreational activities.

Bicycling:

• Melrose Gravel Drive.

The use of traditional bicycles and electric bicycles (e-bikes) for transportation and recreation on gravel roads of the Melrose property does not conflict with the legislative intent for the site.

The term “e-bike” means a two-or three-wheeled cycle with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts 1 h.p.). E-bikes are allowed in Natchez National Historical Park where traditional bicycles are allowed. E-bikes are prohibited where traditional bicycles are prohibited. Except where use of motor vehicles by the public is allowed, using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited. A person operating an e-bike is subject to the following sections of 36 CFR part 4 that apply to the use of traditional bicycles: sections 4.12, 4.13, 4.20, 4.21, 4.22, 4.23, and 4.30(h)(2)-(5). Except as specified in this Compendium, the use of an e-bike within Natchez National Historical Park is governed by State law, which is adopted and made a part of this Compendium. Any violation of State law adopted by this paragraph is prohibited. This provision is inserted per Policy Memorandum 19-01 entitled Electric Bicycles.

II. 36 CFR §1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT

(f) The following is a compilation of those activities for which a permit from the superintendent is required:

• §1.5(d) The following activities related to Public Use Limits:

  • Flying non-powered radio controlled model aircraft at the Fort Rosalie Picnic Area.

• §2.4(d) Carry or possess a weapon, trap, or net, excluding firearms compliant with State law (permits only issued for authorized research).

• §2.5(a) Specimen collection (take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks, or minerals).

• §2.12 Audio Disturbances

  • (a)(4) None other than operation of a public address system in connection with a public gathering or special eventfor which a permit has been issued pursuant to §2.50 or §2.51.

• §2.17 Aircraft & Air Delivery

  • (a)(3) Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter, or other airborne means.
  • c)(1) Removal of a downed aircraft.
  • The flying over or landing of manned hot air balloons on the front field at Melrose.

• §2.37 Soliciting or demanding gifts, money goods, or services (pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit issued under §2.50, §2.51, or §2.52).

• §2.38 Explosives

  • (a) Use, possess, store, transport explosives, blasting agents. (b) Use or possess fireworks.

• §2.50(a) Conduct a sports event, pageant, regatta, public spectator attraction, entertainment, ceremony, and similar events.

• §2.51(a) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades and other public expressions of views. However, demonstrations of 25 people or less are allowed within the park areas designated as available under paragraph 2.51(c)(2) without a permit. The area designated forthese demonstrations is the courtyard at the Natchez Visitor Center at 640 S. Canal Street.

• §2.52(c) Groups of 25 or more that sell or distribute printed matter that is not solely commercial advertising. A permit is not required for groups of less than 25.

• §2.62 Memorialization

  • (a) Erection of monuments (requires approval from the Director).
  • (b) Scattering ashes from human cremation.

• §5.1 Advertisements – (display, posting, or distribution).

• §5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business (requires a permit, contract, or other written agreement with the United States, or must be pursuant to special regulations).

• §5.5 Commercial Photography/Filming

  • (a) Still photography of vehicles, or other articles of commerce or models for the purpose of commercial advertising.

The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS:

• Outdoor filming activities involving five persons or less and equipment that will be carried at alltimes, except for small tripods used to hold cameras.

The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:

• maintain public health and safety;
• protect environmental or scenic values;
• protect natural or cultural resources;
• allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
• avoid conflict among visitor use activities.

If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request. The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10 day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit.

The following are prohibited:

1. Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
2. Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if [the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required.

Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action.

Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.

§5.7 Construction of buildings, facilities, trails, roads, path, structure, etc.

§7.96(g) Public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public expressions of views with groups greater than 25 persons.
§7.96(k)(2) The sale or distribution of printed matter, buttons, and bumper stickers.

Designated areas for assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, and other public expressions of views, and distribution of printed matter are as follows:

1. The courtyard of the Natchez Visitor Center.
2. Fort Rosalie picnic area.
3. Melrose picnic area.

The Natchez Visitor Center is the first stop for visitors to the Natchez area, and its location and modern construction are not incompatible with this use. The areas at the historic sites of Melrose and Fort Rosalie that have been set aside as picnic areas are also so designated.

The Superintendent will determine the location of each activity based on the nature and duration of the proposed event, the estimated number of persons expected to attend, and other information required to complete the permit application form. A permit application may be denied if the activity does not allow for multiple uses of the area, if the event presents a clear and present danger to the public health or safety, or if the printed materials are solely commercial.

The time, location, and conditions for certain activities shall be regulated by a permit to avoid infringement upon the enjoyment of others visiting the park, traffic congestion, protection of the cultural and natural resources, disruption of normal park operations, and the unwarranted risk of participants due to inadequate equipment, poor supervision of the activity, weather, and other factors.

The right to engage in public assemblies, meetings, gatherings, demonstrations, and distribute printed materials is provided for in the United States Constitution; these activities are authorized in the park provided the group is less than 25 persons or a permit has been issued by the superintendent.

III. GENERAL REGULATIONS

36 CFR §2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL, AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES

(c)(1) The gathering, by hand, of nuts that are lying on the ground is permitted for personal use or
consumption.

(c)(2)(i) The daily/person limit of nuts collected is set at 2 gallons.

To protect natural resources, implements may not be used to gather nuts.

Digging is prohibited, including ground disturbance activities such as staking, except by permit.

Areas in the park that contain nuts will continue to provide a relatively undisturbed source of seeds for plant reproduction and food for wildlife. There is no evidence to suggest that the limited gathering of nuts for personal consumption has had an adverse impact on park resources.

36 CFR §2.2 – WILDLIFE PROTECTION

(d) Wildlife may not be transported on roads or in parking lots maintained by the park.

(e) The use of artificial light and infrared lighting/beams for the purposes of viewing wildlife is prohibited.

Hunting is prohibited in the park, therefore the transportation of wildlife carcasses via park roads is inappropriate and unnecessary.
Viewing wildlife by means of artificial light disturbs wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is open during daylight hours only.

36 CFR §2.3 – FISHING

(a) In consultation with appropriate agencies of the State of Mississippi, the following are prohibited:

• Fishing without possessing a valid Mississippi State Fishing License is prohibited. All residents 16 years of age or older are required to have a license. All non-residents, 12 years of age or older are required to possess a license.
• Fishing while in possession of live or dead minnows and live or dead amphibians.

36 CFR §2.10 – CAMPING AND FOOD STORAGE

(a) Camping is prohibited.

The park was not established for overnight occupancy and does not have the necessary amenities for
overnight use. Options in proximity to the park include commercial RV parks, camping and lodging at
Natchez State Park, and camping at Mt. Locust on the Natchez Trace Parkway.

36 CFR §2.13 FIRES

(a)(1) Portable grills, smokers, and fire pans may be used at the Melrose and Fort Rosalie picnic areas, so long as such cooking does not harm park property (such as picnic tables), or other park resources. The disposal of hot or cold coals and/or ashes in the park is prohibited.

The dumping of hot, or presumed cold, coals is a safety and fire hazard for visitors and the park’s natural
and cultural resources.

36 CFR §2.15 – PETS

(a)(1) The following structures and/or areas are closed to the possession of pets other than designated service animals:

• Office buildings, maintenance buildings, public facilities, and government owned vehicles.

The presence of pets in a government building or vehicle is disruptive to visitors and employees. Many
persons suffer from pet allergies and should not be exposed to pets.

(a)(5) Visitors are required to remove pet excrement from parking lots and developed visitor use areas, such as picnic areas, in and around the Visitor Center and historic structures and monuments.

36 CFR §2.16 – HORSES AND PACK ANIMALS

(b) Horseback riding and the use of horse-drawn carriages is allowed on the gravel roads at Melrose.

(g) Riding off these established roads is prohibited.

Certain recreational activities, like horseback riding, can detract from the significance and purpose of the park. The horse hoof can have, in sensitive areas, impacts that are inconsistent with the protection of the cultural and natural resources of the park.

36 CFR §2.21 – SMOKING

(a) Smoking is prohibited in all government facilities, structures, and vehicles, or within 25 feet of any Government vehicle while fueling.

Smoking in government facilities and vehicles is prohibited by departmental policy. Smoking is also prohibited to protect sensitive cultural and historic structures from the presence of tobacco smoke and the potential for fire.

36 CFR §2.23 – RECREATIONAL FEES

Entrance Fee Areas

Entrance to park property does not require a Fee.

Tour Fee for the Melrose mansion

The per person fee of $10.00 is for a ranger guided tour of the Melrose mansion, and it applies to adults
age 18 and above. The tour is approximately 30 minutes long. Students and children 17 and under can
take the ranger guided tour of the Melrose mansion for no cost.

Educational/School groups that have applied for and been approved for a fee waiver will not be charged
for the ranger guided tour of the Melrose mansion. Self-guided tours of the Melrose estate grounds,
formal gardens, and outbuildings are free of charge.

36 CFR §2.35 – ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES and CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES

(a)(3)(i) The following areas and facilities within the park are closed to consumption of alcoholic beverages, and/or to the possession of a bottle, can, or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or has been opened, or whose seal has been broken or the contents of which have been partially removed.

• All public use areas within the Park are closed to the consumption or possession of an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed. Alcoholic beverages can be served as Park sponsored events with the permission of the Superintendent or his/her designee.

The park is closed to alcohol consumption because such activity is inappropriate considering

the other uses of the park and the purpose for which the park was established and is maintained. The park was established and is maintained to serve as an educational resource and to interpret the history of Natchez as a significant city in the American South. The consumption of alcohol is an inappropriate activity that could negatively impact the purposes of the park.

36 CFR §4.21 – SPEED LIMITS

(b) The following speed limits are established for the routes/roads indicated:

• Melrose gravel entrance road – 10 miles per hour.
• Natchez Visitor Center driveway that connects South Canal Street with John R. Junkin – 10 miles per hour.

The superintendent has established this speed limit as reasonable and safe for the identified location. This location has been posted with traffic control signs.