Officials at Palo Duro Canyon State Park today outlined a series of steps, called winterization, that will curtail services to the public but will allow the park to stay within budget, avoid lay offs and keep the gates open.

"Through this plan we can curtail utility and vehicle fuel costs, maintain limited visitors’ services and avoid layoffs of an already thin staff," Hi Newby, park superintendent, said. "During this time of winterization, park staff will be busy repairing, cleaning and improving campgrounds and day use areas. These projects do not require significant funds, they require a great deal of man hours."

"We will begin phasing in the winterization plan today with full implementation by November 28 and it will run through March 2, 2006," Newby said.

The plan includes winterizing (closing) the following areas:

• Campgrounds – Hackberry, Fortress Cliff and Cactus areas close November 1 and Mesquite and Equestrian areas close on November 28. Sagebrush will remain open throughout the year.
• Cabins – Cow Camp mini-cabins will close on November 28. Rim Cabins will remain open year round.
• Day Use Areas – Chinaberry, Sunflower, Cottonwood and Juniper areas close on November 1. The Water Crossing #1 day use area and restroom will remain open year round.
• Park Road 5 will be closed at the Lighthouse Trailhead on November 28. All traffic will be required to turn back at this point.
• All trails will remain open, however there will be limited back country patrols and trail maintenance. Equestrian trails will be open, but can only be accessed from the Lighthouse Trailhead as of November 28. Visitors are reminded that all Park and trail rules remain in effect.
• The Front Gate Office will be closed for all business on Tuesday and Wednesday starting November 1. Visitors entering the Park on Tuesday and Wednesday will pay their fees at a collection box. However, the Park’s Administrative Office will remain open year round.
• Park operating hours will be 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Park will close the front gates to day use at 5:00 p.m. starting November 1.

"This is historically a lower visitation period for Palo Duro Canyon State Park, and it makes good business sense to winterize in order to stay within our allocated budget for FY-06," Newby concludes.

Park officials are asking for help from the community. Anyone who would like to volunteer a few hours or a few days should contact Newby at 806-488-2227.