BUSHKILL - Motorists can expect River Road to be closed for several nights over the next few weeks to protect migrating amphibians. The earliest closures could occur this week and are contingent on the weather. Every year, there are a few early spring nights when warm rains fall and a myriad of wood frogs, spotted salamanders, spring peepers and other spring-breeding amphibians suddenly feel the instinctive urge to search the environment for prospective mates and for wetland breeding areas.

The trigger for the road closures will be forecasts calling for rain with mild temperatures- usually in the 50's. Since the amphibians are active principally at night and have completed their treks by dawn, the road will be closed at approximately 6:00 p.m. and will remain closed until approximately 6:30 a.m.In the past, motor vehicles on River Road have taken a massive toll on these species during peak breeding periods causing negative impacts on local amphibian populations.

For the ninth year, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area will take steps to protect migrating amphibians by closing River Road in Middle Smithfield Township between park headquarters and Hialeah Picnic Area on several mild, rainy nights from mid-March to mid-April. This action also offers a rare opportunity for the public to view this special moment in the region.This year park rangers will present a Migration Sensation program for the public on one evening during the breeding period.The program will include an interpretive talk and a guided walk through the closed area near park headquarters.Because this program is entirely dependent on the weather and the exact timing is difficult to predict, the actual date for the program will be announced through the media, the park's website and social media outlets by 3 p.m. on the day it will be presented.Visitors are encouraged to wear light colored, reflective clothing and to bring a flashlight.

For updated information about the road closures and the program visit the park's website, www.nps.gov/dewa, or follow the park on www.facebook.com/DelWaterGapNPS and www.twitter.com/DelWaterGapNPS.