Oversand Vehicle Use Limits Now In Place Due to Plover Nesting Activities

[Sam]

At km 34-35 there are breeding plovers using the shelly areas immediately west of the OSV travel corridor. Due to a fair amount of public use in this area (due to the recent run of ocean fish) there are some restrictions we must put in place in order to provide protection for this threatened species.

In order to reduce the potential for disturbance by fishermen and their pets, there will be a slightly narrower travel corridor in front of the nesting areas to reduce parking (and associated activities) on the high beach in front of the nesting area. The travel lane will remain open above the high tide line in order to permit OSV traffic to pass this area and access the southernmost 300 meters of beach to the state line fence.

We hope that these restrictions allow for continued use of the beach, while affording the Piping Plover the required protection. Any questions concerning this public use restriction can directed to Regina Jones-Brake, Management Assistant by calling 410-641-1443 x202 or Jack Kumer, Wildlife Biologist at x214.

Scott J. Bentley
Superintendent
Assateague Island National Seashore
7206 National Seashore Lane
Berlin, MD 21811