Luray, Va. — Shenandoah National Park will conduct an extended public safety and sobriety campaign beginning June 1 and continuing through Nov. 15, with high-visibility traffic enforcement and periodic checkpoints along Skyline Drive and at the park’s primary entrances.

Park officials said the extended enforcement period is intended to address safety concerns during the park’s busiest visitation seasons, including the summer travel months and the fall foliage season in October and early November.

“Our goal is to create a safe environment for everyone using Skyline Drive,” said Eric Yount, acting chief ranger. “By starting this campaign in June and extending it through the end of November, we are covering the most high-risk periods for traffic incidents. We want visitors to enjoy the overlooks and trails, but we have a zero-tolerance policy for driving while impaired in national parks.”

According to the National Park Service, U.S. park rangers will be looking for signs of alcohol and drug impairment during the campaign. Rangers will also check for valid operator licenses and essential safety equipment.

Periodic checkpoints will be conducted from June 1 through Nov. 15. Park officials said the checkpoints will use a neutral, predetermined mathematical formula to select vehicles for screening in accordance with federal law.

The enforcement operations will be placed strategically along the 105-mile Skyline Drive and at Shenandoah National Park’s primary entrance stations: Front Royal, Thornton Gap, Swift Run Gap and Rockfish Gap.

Visitors can find official updates on park conditions and safety regulations at www.nps.gov/shen.

Shenandoah National Park is part of the National Park Service, which was established in 1916 to preserve America’s natural and cultural places for the enjoyment, education and inspiration of current and future generations.