[drshame]

Big Cypress Press Release
Big Cypress Reopens to Visitors

Big Cypress National Preserve re-opens to visitors today. Visitors can access the backcountry and other public areas immediately while facilities and other services are brought back online. The preserve has been closed since October 1 due to the lapse in Congressional appropriations.

“We are excited and happy to be back at work and welcome visitors to Big Cypress National Preserve,” said Superintendent Pedro Ramos. “Autumn is a particularly special season to enjoy all that Big Cypress has to offer.”

With the lifting of the government shutdown campgrounds and wildlife viewing areas within the preserve will be open to the public. Additionally, backcountry access will resume, along with the continuation of the muzzleloading hunting season.

All permitted commercial operations will continue within the preserve, providing visitors with a variety of ways to explore and enjoy this special resource. For more information on permitted operators go to - http://www.nps.gov/b...l-operators.htm

With the transition into the dry winter season the National Park Service is preparing to provide a variety of ranger led outdoor opportunities beginning in late November. You can find information on the activities at - http://www.nps.gov/b...S-2013-2014.pdf

Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141
239-695-1107 office; 239-293-3643 cell
On October 11, 1974 Congress established Big Cypress as America's first National Preserve. The Preserve was created through a grassroots effort by many to ensure that the Big Cypress Swamp would be protected and enjoyed for generations.

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American people so that all may experience our heritage.

Experience Your America!

[MrSig]

It dose not do us any good. Blue trail and Yellow trail are still closed.
And on the Red trail the only thing that is legal to ride on is the hard pack and one tiny loop.
I hope to see some of you guys at the 11.05.13 Park meeting.

[drshame]

Forget about the Nov.5th ORV Meeting, CANCELLED, sounds like no public input until 2014.
IF they cut back on trail access, can we ask for a reduction in ORV Fees since they now offer fewer trails?

More Updates:

New Parking opening at Monroe Station
New ORV Appointments added for vehicle inspections, walk-ins still allowed in the AM when the ORV office is staffed.



Big Cypress Meeting Notice
November Off-Road Vehicle Advisory Committee Meeting Canceled

The off-road vehicle Advisory Committee scheduled for November 5 has been canceled, as discussed at the last meeting. We are working to prepare the calendar meeting for 2014. Once completed it will be announced at - http://www.nps.gov/b...y-committee.htm

Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141
239-695-1107 office; 239-293-3643 cell

[MrSig]

I can't find any meetings for 2016. Any one know what is up with this?

drshame, on 24 October 2013 - 11:45 AM, said:

Forget about the Nov.5th ORV Meeting, CANCELLED, sounds like no public input until 2014.
IF they cut back on trail access, can we ask for a reduction in ORV Fees since they now offer fewer trails?

More Updates:

New Parking opening at Monroe Station
New ORV Appointments added for vehicle inspections, walk-ins still allowed in the AM when the ORV office is staffed.



Big Cypress Meeting Notice
November Off-Road Vehicle Advisory Committee Meeting Canceled

The off-road vehicle Advisory Committee scheduled for November 5 has been canceled, as discussed at the last meeting. We are working to prepare the calendar meeting for 2014. Once completed it will be announced at - http://www.nps.gov/b...y-committee.htm

Bob DeGross
Big Cypress National Preserve
Chief of Interpretation and Public Affairs

33100 Tamiami Trail East
Ochopee, FL 34141
239-695-1107 office; 239-293-3643 cell