Due to extreme fire danger, Carlsbad Caverns National Park will implement the following preventative measures beginning on April 15:
* Closure of Walnut Canyon Desert Drive due to tall grass in some parking areas
* Charcoal and wood fires are prohibited
* Smoking is prohibited, except inside personal vehicles
* Open flames and cooking stoves are prohibited in the backcountry
The extreme fire danger is due to prolonged hot, dry, and windy weather. These factors result in extremely dry vegetation that is highly susceptible to even the smallest spark.
These measures will be in effect until the fire danger subsides.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service
