CALL FIRST

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. -- Illinois Department of Conservation director, Mark Frech, is urging park visitors to call before planning a visit to one of the state's parks or recreation areas at this time of year.

"We experience some freeze-thaw condition as some recreation areas during the time of years," said Frech. "Vehicles can do a lot of damage or roads, and we sometimes have to close roads, parking lots and campgrounds in some area. Visitors should call head to make sure the facility they want to visit is open."

Frech said the recreation areas would remain open and accessible to foot traffic even when road systems are closed.