Inlet access reopens; turtle nests set record

With the shorebird nesting season ending, the National Park Service has re-opened access to Oregon Inlet by off road vehicle and foot.

A corridor south of Ramp 4 will provide the access, but an area to protect a nesting area will remain in place until two weeks after the last chick has fledged, the National Park Service said in a statement.

On Hatteras Island, an area between Ramp 23 and the southern boundary of Salvo has also reopened for ORV and pedestrian use.

Several areas remain protected for seasonal turtle nests in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the NPS said. There have been reports of high numbers of nests in other areas of the East Coast, as well.

A record number of sea turtle nests — 147 — have been established and nesting activity is continuing.

Protected areas for birds and turtles are marked with signs and fencing and are closed to vehicles, pedestrians and pets. Violations can mean a $5,000 fine and up to six months in prison.