Have you hugged a Porcupine lately?

In celebration of the centennial anniversary of the National Park Service, Devils Tower National Monument will host a Porcupine BioBlitz on Saturday, April 30 at the park Visitor Center. National Parks BioBlitzes provide opportunities for citizen scientists of all ages to connect with living organisms in their natural environment, through activities and demonstrations.  Citizen scientists will use radio telemetry equipment alongside scientists from the University of Wyoming to track and locate some of the porcupines that make their home in Devils Tower National Monument.  There will be two opportunities to track porcupines on April 30.

9:00am – 9:45am Program on porcupines – meet at the Devils Tower Visitor Center

9:45am- 10:00am Q&A with Wyoming Natural Diversity Database scientists

10:00am -12:00 noon Porcupine Hikes — meet at Devils Tower Visitor Center. Bring good hiking shoes, a backpack and a container for drinking water.

• Porcupine Evidence:  Join a park ranger for a guided walk on the paved Tower Trail to discover tree scars, scat, tracks, and other evidence of porcupines.
•     Porcupine Tracking: Radio telemetry.  Citizen scientists will accompany Wyoming Natural Diversity Database scientists and park biologists, and use radio telemetry equipment to track and locate porcupine. Porcupines could be in steep and difficult terrain, far from roads and trails.

LUNCH – On your own

1:00 pm– 1:45pm Program on porcupines at the Devils Tower Visitor Center

1:45pm – 2:00pm Q&A with Wyoming Natural Diversity Database scientists

2:00pm – 4:00pm Porcupine Hikes — meet at the Devils Tower Visitor Center.  Bring good hiking shoes, a backpack and a container for drinking water.

• Porcupine Evidence:  Join a park ranger for a guided walk on the Tower Trail to discover tree scars, scat, tracks, and other evidence of porcupines.
• Porcupine Tracking: Radio telemetry.  Citizen scientists will accompany Wyoming Natural Diversity Database scientists and park biologists, and use radio telemetry equipment to track and locate porcupine. Porcupines could be in steep and difficult terrain, far from roads and trails.

The hands-on activities and demonstrations will compile a “snapshot” of biodiversity information which will help protect porcupine habitats in all seasons.

With increasing global threats, national park sites such as Devils Tower are becoming critical reserves of biodiversity.  Helping track and record porcupine habitat will ensure the preservation of these living resources.

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument visit http://www.nps.gov/deto  or http://www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com@DevilsTowerNM or Instagram at #devilstowernps

www.nps.gov

 About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 409 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.

Devils Tower to BURN

Devils Tower National Monument Plans to Burn 85 Acres

Devils Tower, WY –

Devils Tower National Monument hopes to take advantage of recent precipitation to conduct a small prescribed burn sometime during the next two weeks. Fire management staff from the Northern Great Plains Fire Management Office and Devils Tower National Monument plan to burn 85 acres near the entrance of the monument and east of the Belle Fourche River.

The objective of the prescribed burn is to remove build-up of dead fuels and woody herbaceous growth, and encourage the growth of native prairie grasses and forbs.   Prescribed burns return a key natural process to the landscape, improve the health of the ecosystem, and can lessen the chance of intense wildland fire in the future.

Prescribed burns are carefully planned, conducted within an approved boundary and ignited only under specific weather conditions such as humidity, fuel moisture, wind speed, direction and short and long range weather forecasts.   If conditions are not acceptable on the scheduled day of the burn, it will be postponed until desirable conditions return.

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument visit http://www.nps.gov/deto  or http://www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com@DevilsTowerNM or Instagram at #devilstowernps

About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 409 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice, Twitter www.twitter.com/natlparkservice, and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice.

Devils Tower National Monument to Waive Entrance Fees for Martin Luther King Jr. Day

 

Devils Tower, WY –  Press Release

January 6, 2016 – Devils Tower National Monument will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day and join over 400 national park units across the country with free entry into the Monument on Monday, January 18, 2016.

Our national parks hold special experiences for everyone—hardcore hikers and campers and people who like to explore history, take a leisure nature walk, or simply pack a picnic lunch and get away from it all. Visitors of all ages, abilities and interests can enjoy a holiday, often without making more than a short trip from home.

The National Park Service will waive admission fees on 8 other days in 2015 – President’s Day weekend (February 15), the first weekend of National Park Week (April 16 &17), the National Park Service’s 100^th birthday (August 25), National Public Lands Day (September 24), and Veterans Day (November 11).  “Fee free days are great opportunities to take family and friends to Devils Tower and walk the Tower Trail, a short 1.3 miles around the base of the Tower,” said Nancy Stimson, Chief of Interpretation and Education.

National park passes that provide free or discounted admission are available for active duty military members and their dependents, senior citizens, and people with permanent disabilities. For more information on national park fee free days, visit  www.nps.gov/findapark/feefreeparks.htm.

About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 407 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Visit us at www.nps.gov, on Facebook www.facebook.com/nationalparkservice, Twitterwww.twitter.com/natlparkservice, and YouTube www.youtube.com/nationalparkservice.

 

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument, contact a ranger at 307-467-5283, or visit us on line at  www.nps.gov/deto or www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com @DevilsTowerNM..

www.nps.gov

 About the National Park Service: More than 20,000 National Park Service employees care for America’s 409 national parks and work with communities across the nation to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. Learn more at www.nps.gov.

Star Parties Planned at Devils Tower

Devils Tower, WY –

America’s National Park Service sites contain many cherished treasures. As darkness falls on Devils Tower, a different kind of light illuminates the night sky. That light, which comes from objects out in space transforms the night from a place of darkness into a place of wonder. To celebrate and share the beauty of our dark night skies, Devils Tower National Monument will host a series of star parties October through December.  The star parties will be free of charge and approximately two hours in duration. Telescopes will be provided for viewing although visitors who have their own telescopes are invited to bring them.  Star parties may be canceled due to inclement weather: for more information call the visitor center 9 am – 4 pm at 307-467-5283 ex. 635

October 22^nd – Orionids Meteor Shower Adventure – The Orionids meteors are formed from debris left behind by Halley’s Comet, and are renowned for their bright and quick meteors, with approximately 20 meteors per hour.  We can expect a meteor to rain down every 3 to 6 minutes. The meteors radiate from the north of constellation Orion’s bright star Betelgeuse.  Meet at 7pm at the Joyner Ridge Parking Area.

October 27^th – A Guided Walk to the Super-Moon –Take a walk with the ranger during the Super-Moon. The Moon will be at its closest passage to the Earth, seeming larger and brighter, which will illuminate Devils Tower for lots of spectacular views.

November 6^th – Taurids Meteor Shower Festival – The peak of the Taurids meteor shower is close to the New Moon, which grants an incredibly dark, clear sky to gaze at the stars and watch the meteors.

November 11^th – Non-Viewing of the New Moon through Telescopes – A New Moon is the darkest night of the month, which allows for amazing star viewing, and views of deep sky objects with telescopes.

November 17^th – Leonids Meteor Shower Festival – The Leonids meteor shower is known for its bright, colorful meteors, as well as magnificent fireballs – The waning crescent moon should leave skies dark enough for a wonderful showing of meteors. The meteors are radiant and travel 44 miles (71 kilometers) per second near the constellation Leo.

November 25^th – A Tour of Devils Tower in the light of the Full Moon – Usually at night we need flashlights to see, but during the Full Moon experience the trail will be illuminated by the Full Moon. A flashlight is recommended for those unpredictable situations.  Meet the ranger for a guided walk on the Tower Trail for lots of truly unique views of Devils Tower.

December 11^th – Non-Viewing of the New Moon through Telescopes – a New Moon is the darkest night of the month, which allows for amazing star viewing, and views of deep sky objects with telescopes.

December 13^th – Devils Tower presents the magnificent, King of the Meteor Showers, the Geminis.  The Geminis are typically one of the best and most reliable of the annual meteor showers, providing 120 meteors per hour in multiple colors!  It’s one of the best opportunities for younger viewers who might not stay up late. Expect delightfully dark skies this year as the crescent moon sets early. The meteors are radiant and travel 22 miles (35 kilometers) per second near the constellation Gemini.

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument visit http://www.nps.gov/deto or http://www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site ortwitter.com@DevilsTowerNM or Instagram at #devilstowernps

Don’t Pet the Prairie Dogs

Devils Tower, WY – Several dead prairie dogs and other rodents recently found in Devils Tower National Monument have tested positive for tularemia.  This year, tularemia has been widely reported in Wyoming and some neighboring states.

Tularemia is a naturally occurring bacterial disease transmitted by infected insects and ticks to rabbits, hares, muskrats, beavers and other small rodents.  Tularemia can also spread to humans and can cause serious clinical symptoms.  People can help prevent infection by using insect repellent, washing hands, and giving wildlife their space.  Never consume water that has not been treated or boiled.

In humans, tularemia can cause a wide range of symptoms, including fever and chills, joint pain, muscle aches and headaches, dry cough and chest pain and an open sore and swelling at the site of a tick bite or swollen lymph nodes.  If someone becomes ill with any of these symptoms within two weeks of being in an affected area, they should seek medical attention and tell their doctor about possible exposure to tularemia.  Tularemia can be treated successfully with antibiotics.  For more information about tularemia visit www.cdc.gov/Tularemia   and www.health.wyo.gov/news.aspx?NewsID=841

Although tularemia is a native disease that occurs naturally, human impacts on the environment can affect wildlife habitats and promote the transmission and spread of diseases such as tularemia. By appreciating wildlife from a distance, we can help protect ourselves from tularemia.

Monument staff are monitoring this situation closely in consultation with the NPS Wildlife Heath Branch, the NPS Office of Public Health and state partners.     All Monument visitors are reminded of the importance to comply with regulations that require pets to be leashed and prohibit the touching and feeding of wildlife.    Visitors encountering dead or sick wildlife should not touch or move the animal, and should report the location to park staff as soon as possible.

To learn more about Devils Tower National Monument, contact 307-467-5283, visit us online at www.nps.gov/deto, www.facebook.com/Devils-Tower-National-Monument-Official-NPS-Site or twitter.com @DevilsTowerNM

South Dakota events

Lots going on here in the Black Hills, but these are a few things happening across the state too.

Friday, July 31

• Sioux River Folk Festival – Newton Hills State Park, Canton. 7 p.m. CT. Info:605.987.2263

Saturday, August 1

• Riverman/Riverwoman Sprint Triathlon – Farm Island Recreation Area, Pierre. 7:40 a.m. CT. Info: 605.773.2887
• Outdoor University 2015 – Outdoor Campus East, Sioux Falls. 9 a.m. CT. Info: 605.362.2777
• Kayaking for Fun – North Point Recreation Area, Pickstown. 10 a.m. CT. Info:605.487.7046
• Celebrating South Dakota History Hike – Oakwood Lakes State Park, Bruce. 10:30 a.m. CT. Info: 605.627.5441
• Wildlife Olympics – Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, Sioux Falls. 11 a.m. CT. Info: 605.987.2263
• Searching Through a Dark Park – Lewis and Clark Recreation Area, Yankton. 10 p.m. CT. Info: 605.558.2985

Mickelson Trail Gains National Recognition

Mickelson Trail Gains National Recognition

PIERRE, S.D. – As National Trails Day approaches and we celebrate the health and fun that trails bring, the George S. Mickelson Trail continues to attract bicyclists, hikers and nature enthusiasts from across the state and the nation. This past year, South Dakota’s most famous trail has received national and global recognition.

Fox News compiled a list of the World’s Top 10 Bike Rides, with Mickelson Trail making an appearance at number 7. The article cited the Black Hills’ unique scenery and the trail’s tunnels and railroad bridges as attractions that earned recognition.

Bicycle Magazine also recognized the trail’s charms, as the Mickelson Trail appears on the list of “10 Best Car-free Bike Paths in the USA.” The magazine cites the sacred feeling of the land combined with the gorgeous landscapes and features. The historical towns, monuments and landmarks also contribute to the honor.

“The goal is to make each trail user’s experience the best it can be,” said Mickelson Trail manager, Dana Garry-Reiprich. “Our staff works hard to keep the trail in top condition year-round, and all of their hard work has not gone unnoticed.”

Other notable accolades for the Mickelson Trail include:

• BikingBis.com – “10 Longest Rails-to-Trails for Bicycling in the US”
• TrailRunner Magazine – “Top 10 Vacation Spots the Whole Family Will Love”
• 2012 NRT Photo Contest Winner – Bicycling category
• Active.com – “7 Multi-Day Bike Tours”
• Cadillac Jack’s – “The Best Rails-to-Trails in the West”
• VisitRapidCity.com – “Top 10 Hiking Trails in Rapid City”

South Dakota Game Fish and Parks Trails App.

Mobile App Features South Dakota GFP Trails

PIERRE, S.D. – Visitors can get the most out of National Trails Day this year with an app that helps users navigate state park trail systems. According to state park officials, a new interactive map on the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks (GFP) mobile app makes navigating trails easier for visitors.

The map includes statewide non-motorized trails managed by GFP. Features available on the app include trail distance, surface type, types of use (hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, etc.) and any special highlights of a trail. The trails can be viewed on a topographic map or aerial photography.

“By turning on the phone’s GPS feature, users can see where they are on the trail,” said state park assistant director Al Nedved. “We can also keep users up-to-date on any trail status changes in real time.”

The GFP mobile app, SDGFP Outdoors, is free and available to download for Android and Apple devices. The mobile application lets users view the hunting and fishing regulations, apply for licenses to hunt and fish in South Dakota, reserve a campsite in one of the state parks and view maps of public hunting and fishing opportunities.

-GFP-

June: Great Outdoors Month!!! Go climb a rock!

SD Gov. Daugaard Proclaims June as “Great Outdoors Month”

PIERRE, S.D. – Gov. Dennis Daugaard has proclaimed June as “Great Outdoors Month” in South Dakota joining with many states across the nation to celebrate the nature and resources of their states.

In the proclamation, Gov. Daugaard noted South Dakota’s abundance of natural resources not only provides entertainment and recreation opportunities, but also drives our economy. This celebration of the Great Outdoors is designed to promote safe and healthy fun and a connection to nature.

Game, Fish and Parks is providing opportunities to connect with nature through events, hikes and programs in their continued effort to protect, enhance and care for our state parks and help others do the same.

Notable events taking place throughout Great Outdoors Month include:

• National Trails Day, June 6 – A day set aside to celebrate America’s magnificent trail systems and their countless supporters and volunteers. Several state parks will be hosting trail-related events that day. Info:www.gfp.sd.gov or www.AmericanHiking.org
• National Fishing and Boating Week, June 6-14 – A national celebration of fishing and boating. National Fishing and Boating Week is the perfect reason to get out on the water and experience the joys of boating and fishing. Info:www.takemefishing.org/nfbw
• National Get Outdoors Day, June 13 – National Get Outdoors Day is an annual event to encourage healthy, active outdoor fun. Info:www.nationalgetoutdoorsday.org

Parks across the state will hold events throughout June such as hikes, day camps, archery and disc-golf demonstrations, kids’ fishing derbies, educational nature programs and environmental events.

For a full list of events, go online to gfp.sd.gov.

Mount Rushmore Celebrates 90 Years of History

Celebrating Ninety Years

KEYSTONE, SD: Mount Rushmore National Memorial celebrates 90 years of history. On March 25, 2015 join us in the Carver’s Café at 2 PM to kick off a year of celebration. Festivities will include a talk on park history, cake and Thomas Jefferson ice cream.

According to Superintendent Cheryl Schreier, “1925 was a significant year for Mount Rushmore National Memorial. March marked President Coolidge’s signature on a bill establishing the creation of a national memorial. In August artist Gutzon Borglum arrived to evaluate the site selecting Mount Rushmore instead of the proposed Needles. Lastly, on October 1, 1925 Mount Rushmore was officially dedicated with over 3,000 people in attendance.”

Doane Robinson, known as the “Father of Mount Rushmore” initiated the idea of colossal carvings in the Black Hills. Robinson selected the artist Gutzon Borglum and actively solicited the necessary political support for his dream. Over the course of 90 years Doane Robinson’s idea of a monument in the Black Hills has moved from concept to a reality visited by almost 3 million people a year.