KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) With the arrival of spring’s first warm and rainy nights, thousands of frogs and salamanders are expected to make their annual journey to breeding wetlands—a natural event known as “Big Night.” In preparation, city officials have announced temporary road closures to ensure the safety of these migrating amphibians and the volunteers assisting them.

Beginning at 7 p.m. Monday, North Lincoln Street will be completely closed to traffic, while Jordan Road will be restricted to local access only. The closures will remain in effect until 7 a.m. Tuesday morning.

Wildlife enthusiasts hoping to witness the migration firsthand are welcome at the North Lincoln Street crossing, but city officials stress the importance of safety precautions. Visitors should come prepared with appropriate clothing for wet conditions and bring flashlights, as cell phone lights are insufficient for navigating in the dark. Parking is available in the southeast section of Woodland Cemetery, accessible via the Beaver or Greenlawn Street gates. Parking on North Lincoln Street is prohibited.

Due to safety and limited parking, public access to the Jordan Road crossing will be restricted to trained volunteers from the Salamander Crossing Brigade, who will be equipped with proper safety gear.

Amphibian migrations occur only after dark and in rainy conditions. If weather conditions are suitable, a naturalist from the Harris Center for Conservation Education will be stationed at the North Lincoln Street site from sunset until 10:00 PM to provide information and guidance.

For additional details about Keene’s amphibian road closures, visit harriscenter.org/big-night-detours.