Pea Ridge National Military Park closes

The gates are locked at the Pea Ridge National Military Park.

“The park is closed completely to the public,” John C. Scott, park superintendent, said. “We’ve kept two employees to provide for emergencies.”

Due to the federal government “shut down,” Scott said he sent home 13 permanent employees on furlough until he receives word.

Scott, who has worked for the federal government for 35 years, said he remembers at least half a dozen threats to close down and once in 1986, when he and other federal employees were sent home for 10 days. Scott said he remembers about three or four other closures.