Town of Pine Knoll Shores issued the following announcement on Aug. 7.
We have a record breaking year in the number of sea turtle nests in Pine Knoll Shores. We also have an astounding number of people on our beach this summer. The two combined warrant a reminder of what our Sea Turtle Sanctuary means, how you can help protect it, and who is allowed to be near a nest.
All species of sea turtles are classified as Endangered or Threatened with Extinction and are protected by Federal legislation (Endangered Species Act). This protective legislation is mirrored in North Carolina State Law and the Pine Knoll Shores Code of Ordinances. State volunteers with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission are specially trained in the safeguarding of sea turtles, their nests, eggs, and hatchlings.
Only registered volunteers with the NC Wildlife Resources Commission are allowed inside the roped off areas of any and all sea turtle nests. These volunteers are also the only authorized handlers of eggs or hatchlings. Unless specifically requested to assist, those not complying with the instructions and directives of one of these volunteers as it relates to the care or preservation of a nest or its contents may be found in violation of local, state and federal laws. (PKS Code of Ordinances 6-5, NCGS 113-189, NCGS 113-337, and the Endangered Species Act of 1973)
What can you do to help?!
ALWAYS:
Follow the guidance and direction of the NC Wildlife Resources Sea Turtle Volunteers.
Take all chairs, canopies and other obstructions off the beach with you when you leave! (PKS Code of Ordinances 46-28)
Level sand castles and fill in holes when you leave the beach.
Dispose of trash properly.
Turn off porch, spot and walkway lights facing the ocean when not in use. Avoid using flashlights (including cell phone flashlights) when walking the beach after dark.
Adhere to regulations regarding pets on the beach. (PKS Code of Ordinances 6-2)
If you see a nest runway being built, volunteers sitting a nest or excavating one, they will be more than willing to share the wonders of these beautiful sea creatures with you!
Original source can be found here.
Source: Town of Pine Knoll Shores
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