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Wednesday,
October 22, 2003
Press Release
South Dakota Game,
Fish and Parks News
Wintering bald eagles may soon be taking up residence in a few South Dakota
state parks along the Missouri River. Many of the birds typically spend their
winters below the
Missouri River dams
where they are able to catch fish and waterfowl attracted to the open water.
Bald
eagles need undisturbed roosting areas during the winter. For this reason, South
Dakota Game, Fish and Parks officials are closing certain areas in state parks
along the Missouri River. These closures are consistent with management of these
parks last year.
Camping
and vehicle traffic are prohibited during specific dates in the following areas:
- Oahe
Downstream Recreation Area campgrounds, near
Pierre, from Nov. 1
through March 31,
2004
-
Randall Creek Recreation Area campgrounds, near Pickstown, from Oct. 1 through
April 30, 2004
-
Chief White Crane Recreation Area, near Yankton, from Nov. 1 through
March 31, 2004
Walkers
and cross-country skiers are allowed in these areas, though they must use
caution to not disturb the roosting bald eagles. If disturbed, the eagles may
abandon their roosts.
For more information on
bald eagles in state parks, please visit the website at
http://www.state.sd.us/gfp/sdparks or call (605) 773-3391. Information can also be found
in the Birding in SD State Parks booklet, which is available through the
division office or your local park. |
