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SWIMMING AREA AND TRAIL TEMPORARILY CLOSED
AT TRAIL OF TEARS STATE PARK

JEFFERSON CITY, MO., JUNE 05, 2008 -- Spring rains and flooding have resulted in the closing of the swimming beach and Sheppard Point Trail at Trail of Tears State Park near Jackson, the Missouri Department of Natural Resources announced today.

Erosion problems developed in several areas of the dam at Lake Boutin following heavy rains. Engineers from the department's Dam Safety Program recommended that the lake level be lowered to relieve pressure on the dam until repairs can be made. The lower lake levels have created a sharp drop off area for the beach, making it unsuitable for swimming. Plans are already under way for repair of the dam, but the swimming area for Lake Boutin will remain closed for the 2008 season or until the dam is repaired.

Heavy rains also created significant mud slides and other problems on Sheppard Point Trail, and the trail is temporarily closed. Staff are working to clear the trail or find a suitable reroute for this trail. Sheppard Point Trail is a two-mile loop hiking trail that ascends to the top of a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. All other trails in the park, including the Peewah Trail, Lake Trail and Nature Trail are open to the public. For more information about Trail of Tears State Park, call the park at 573-290-5268 or the Department of Natural Resources toll free at 800-334-6946 (voice) or 800-379-2419 (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf). For more information on state parks and historic sites, visit www.mostateparks.com.