Big Thicket Reopens After Gustav

NEWS RELEASE FROM BIG THICKET NATIONAL PRESERVE 

Big Thicket National Preserve's trails, public use areas and Visitor Center are now open to the public following the passing of Hurricane Gustav. The Preserve's management team has returned from San Antonio and all administrative functions have resumed. 

The public is invited to visit the Preserve for a quiet respite from the stress of the evacuation and the tedium of post-hurricane chores. Preserve visitors are also advised to use caution whenever they are in the Preserve, but especially after events such as Hurricane Gustav.  Extreme weather can weaken trees, making them prone to falling in high winds that occur well after the storm has passed.  Downed trees can also make access to backcountry areas more difficult.  High water can damage trail beds, potentially causing erosion and soft spots on trails.  Higher than normal water levels can make boating more hazardous.  Swimmers should follow standard safety procedures, since eddies, steep drop-offs, and swift currents may be present.  Personal flotation devices (PFDs) should always be worn.

Preserve Visitor Center staff will have the latest information on the status of Preserve facilities, roads and trails, and developed areas. For more information, call Big Thicket National Preserve at (409) 951-6701, or visit us at www.nps.gov/bith.