January 15, 2003
For Immediate Release
Cicely Muldoon/Superintendent (831) 389 - 4485

2003 CLIMBING ADVISORIES IN EFFECT

Annual measures to protect nesting raptors of Pinnacles National Monument will be reinstated as of January 17, 2003, according to Park Superintendent Cicely Muldoon. Last year eight pairs of prairie falcons produced a total of 26 fledglings. Additionally, the monument had successful nesting by American Kestrels, Red-tailed Hawks, and Golden Eagles. Park researchers will continue to monitor raptors to better understand these interesting and beautiful birds. "We ask you to refrain from any off-trail hiking and climbing in sensitive areas which include the High Peaks, the Balconies Cliffs area, Little Pinnacles, Goat Rock, Gargoyle/Piedras Bonitas, and the Scout Peak area," said Muldoon. "Without your cooperation in avoiding the advisory areas, this program could not be the success that it is."

The specific locations of these sensitive areas (including maps) are posted on information boards at trailheads in both districts of the monument, at the Bear Gulch Visitor Center, the Chaparral Ranger Station, and on the Park Web site.

For more information regarding the monument's raptor monitoring program, please call the office of Research and Resource Management at 831-389-4485 extension 223 or extension 0 for general park information.

-NPS-