11-14-2004, 05:39 PM
[size 2]PIERRE, S.D. - Wintering bald eagles may soon be taking up residence in a few South Dakota state parks along the Missouri River. Many bald eagles typically spend their winters below the Missouri River dams where they are able to catch fish and waterfowl attracted to the open water.[/size]
[size 2]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. [/size]
[size 2]Camping and vehicle traffic are prohibited during specific dates in the following areas:[/size] [ul] [li][size 2]Oahe Downstream Recreation Area campgrounds, near Pierre, from Nov. 1 through March 31, 2005[/size] [li][size 2]Randall Creek Recreation Area campgrounds, near Pickstown, from Oct. 1 through April 30, 2005[/size] [li][size 2]Chief White Crane Recreation Area, near Yankton, from Nov. 1 through March 31, 2005[/size] [/li][/ul]
[size 2]Walkers and cross-country skiers are allowed on trails in these areas, though they must use caution to not disturb the roosting bald eagles. If disturbed, the eagles may abandon their roosts. [/size]
[size 2]For more information on bald eagles in state parks, please visit the website at www.sdgfp.info/Parks or call (605) 734-3391. Information can also be found in the Birding in SD State Parks booklet, which is available through the division office or your local park. [/size]
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[size 2]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. [/size]
[size 2]Camping and vehicle traffic are prohibited during specific dates in the following areas:[/size] [ul] [li][size 2]Oahe Downstream Recreation Area campgrounds, near Pierre, from Nov. 1 through March 31, 2005[/size] [li][size 2]Randall Creek Recreation Area campgrounds, near Pickstown, from Oct. 1 through April 30, 2005[/size] [li][size 2]Chief White Crane Recreation Area, near Yankton, from Nov. 1 through March 31, 2005[/size] [/li][/ul]
[size 2]Walkers and cross-country skiers are allowed on trails in these areas, though they must use caution to not disturb the roosting bald eagles. If disturbed, the eagles may abandon their roosts. [/size]
[size 2]For more information on bald eagles in state parks, please visit the website at www.sdgfp.info/Parks or call (605) 734-3391. Information can also be found in the Birding in SD State Parks booklet, which is available through the division office or your local park. [/size]
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