News Release

Temporary Closure of Sensitive Lands at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park for Resource Protection

News Release Date: April 2, 2025
Contact: Rainey McKenna

Cornish, NH  – With the arrival of spring, Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park will temporarily close a section of the park bordering State Route 12A and St. Gaudens Road to protect sensitive plant species. The floodplain forest between the Connecticut River and State Route 12A, north of the Blow-Me-Down Brook and the forested areas on either side of St. Gaudens Road at Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park will be closed to all entry through May 31.
 
“The National Park Service is mandated to protect national parks and conserve natural systems, including plant specimens, to leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations,” said superintendent Rick Kendall. “These closures help to protect sensitive plant species and alert visitors that collecting fiddleheads and other plant species is not permitted on park lands.”
 
Collection of fiddleheads, ramps and other plant materials that are not fruits, nuts, or berries is prohibited within park boundaries.
 
Fiddleheads and other spring ephemerals are sensitive plant species that typically emerge during the months of April and May. Due to their early appearance, these plants are an important resource for wildlife when other food resources and ground cover are scarce, as well as critical to soil stabilization in riparian areas.
 
To learn more about Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park, natural resource stewardship, and park programs and events, visit www.nps.gov/saga

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