CORNISH — To protect plants, Saint-Gaudens National Historical Park has closed a floodplain forest that sits between the Connecticut River and Route 12A during the months of April and May.

Plants such as ramps and fiddleheads typically emerge in the spring, according to a news release from the park. The plants serve as food sources for pollinators and wildlife when other foods are scarce, and help to stabilize soil in riparian areas.

“The National Park Service is mandated to protect national parks and conserve natural systems, including plant specimens, to leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations,” Rick Kendall, the park’s superintendent, said in the release.

The collection of fiddleheads, ramps and other plant materials that are not fruits, nuts or berries are prohibited within the park’s boundaries.

The closed area sits north of the Blow-Me-Down Brook and the forested areas on either side of Saint Gaudens Road at the park.