Updated 12/18/2007
The beach is closed for the winter! Note from the North District Ranger:
Peter,
The summer holiday reservation system for Self-Contained Vehicles (SCV) for the July 4 and Labor Day weekends is going to be suspended for the 2008 season. The SCV's will be handled on a first-come, first served basis throughout the 2008 season.
We have not been able to accommodate 100 SCV units on the beach during the July 4 weekend, due to the extent of beach open to vehicles during this time of year. We have made, and will continue to make, the overflow parking areas for SCV units available when beach access is limited. Due to the limited beach available during the July 4 weekend we have not approached the 100 unit SCV limit both on the beach and in the overflow parking areas in recent years.
We have had sufficient beach available during the Labor Day weekend. But the numbers of SCV units on the beach during this time of year has not approached the 100 unit limit.
The reservation system worked during the summer holiday weekends in the past, but does not currently need to be in place. We will evaluate numbers each year and won't hesitate to reimplement the reservation system if needed.
Please make this information available to your Massachusetts Beach Buggy Association members and communicate with me if there are any questions that need clarification. We will send this same information out to SCV users that do not receive notice prior to sending in their 2008 reservation request.
Thanks in advance for your assistance.
Craig Thatcher - North District Ranger
Cape Cod National Seashore
508-487-2100 x-107
I Hope everyone has a great Holiday season!
Peter Murray, Race Point Beach Rep.
Updated 11/26/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The tropical Storm forced the Seashore to close for a couple of days, but everything is open again the front beach from Hatches Harbor to High Head, the exception being the Race Point South access trail which has a big drop off caused by the storm. The beach season ends on November 15th.
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 10/21/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The entire beach is open until November 15th
Summer Report Outline
6/2 Hatches harbor closed
6/4 Race Point north SCV area closed, we did still have access to Race Point north via the pole line route & the crossover trail FOR ORV’s.
6/15 all of Race Point north closed
6/21 Race Point south closed due to a hatching and a SCV area was opened at High Head (as a result of the amended rules
7/13 we had a brood move south right to the High Head access and that caused a total closure.
7/17 they reopened a 1/10 of a mile on Race Point north and allowed boat launching (but no SCV area other than parking lots)
7/27 more of Race Point north opened and a small 30 vehicle SCV area was established. The pole line route and Hatches Harbor was reopened.
8/2, the Race Point north SCV area was enlarged to 60 vehicles
8/6 the Race Point north SCV area was enlarged slightly
8/17 the Race Point north SCV area was enlarged to accommodate 100 SCV’s
8/17 access to High Head reopened
8/20 Race Point south reopened and a SCV area established.
At all times parking lots were available during closures for rigs that couldn’t make the Race Point south hill or were too big for High Head and also the Park waived the 15.00 per day access charge for Head of the Meadow, Race Point and Herring Cove beach parking lots.
The total closure for ORV’s lasted less than 1 week; we had no beach SCV area for 15 days and very crowded SCV areas for July and August.
I posted around 30 beach reports on the message board, answered numerous phone calls from the park, our members and non members, and attended many meetings with the Park over the summer to keep most of our members informed of what was going on at Race Point.
I spent 3 full weeks and 8 weekends at Race Point this summer, caught a ton of bass and blues and other than being crowded and in a parking lot sometimes, had a great time.
I would like to thank my Courtesy Patrol and friends for all of their support in these trying times.
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 10/01/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Well it’s nice to finally be able to drive to High Head from the Race; it was once again a challenging year. The changes put in place by the Park Service at the beginning of the season almost worked, there’s just no way to predict where and when the birds will move. My guess is that this will be typical for the unforeseeable future until US Fish and Wildlife changes its rules.
The Ranger Station is being re-habilitated over the next 9 months; the phone lines have taken a beating this year with the construction going on, (at one point being completely severed). The main line is still not functioning but the 508-487-2102 number is working. The heavy usage over the summer completely wore out the old answer machine and it has been replaced.
The beach is open, beautiful and there is a ton of fish, on my recent vacation we caught fish every day from the beach and saw bluefish blitzes like you read about, what a blast! Fishing with top water plugs and trying to dodge the seals, we had the time of our lives!
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 06/13/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Up to date information can be found on the MBBA message board at http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .and by Race Point North - Race Point North Beach is accessible by Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) via the Pole Line Road to the crossover road and south 0.7 miles towards the ranger station. The Race Point North access is currently closed to ORV's along with 0.7 miles of the Race Point North Beach near the access. Hatches Harbor area is also closed to ORV's. A temporary Self-Contained Vehicle (SCV) area has been established in Cape Cod National Seashore, Provincetown, MA Cont. the third tear of the Race Point Beach parking lot for the larger rigs that can't negotiate the Race Point South access. Only units with SCV permits will be allowed to park in the third tear of the Race Point Beach lot between 12:00 A.M. and 6:00 A.M. Pedestrians may walk the areas closed to ORV's as long as they stay out of the symbolically signed bird nesting areas. The Pole Line Road may be closing between June 13 - 18 (most likely around the 15th).
Race Point South - The Race Point South access is currently open and the ORV corridor is open 2.2 miles down to exit 8. A small SCV area is open at the access and a larger area is open south of the access. If winds shift and come out of the north (predicted on Sunday at 5-10 mph) or when the higher tides are encountered the beginning of next week, the SCV users may need to move out of the larger SCV area to the Race Point or Province Lands Visitor Center parking lot . It looks like Race Point South and the 2.2 miles of corridor will remain open through this next week and most of the following week.
Coast Guard Beach - The Coast Guard Beach ORV corridor in Truro is currently open to night fishing from 6:00 P.M to 7:00 A.M. There is 1.9 miles of corridor currently open on Coast Guard Beach. With current information, it looks like Coast Guard Beach will remain open through the season for night fishing.
Only the symbolically signed areas around the nest sites and the potential nesting areas are closed to pedestrian traffic. The areas are well signed and are usually on the "foredune" and some of the "backshore", allowing pedestrian access on part of the "backshore" and "foreshore" areas.
FYI. The National Seashore staff keeps an updated 24-hour ORV information line. This information can be accessed by calling 508-487-3698. There is also a web link to a map that is updated on a regular basis (new this year). The map can be accessed at http://www.nps.gov/caco/planyourvisit/upload/ORVMap.6.01.07.JPG.
The Environmental Assessment has been approved and the Seashore will be utilizing the new flexibility at High Head, Head of the Meadow and Coast Guard beach to keep access to the beach open
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 05/21/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Up to date information can be found on the MBBA message board at http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .
Annual ORV Permits went on sale starting Wednesday, March 28, 2007
The beach is open and in it’s pretty normal condition for this time of the year.
The following is open on the Seashore ORV corridor: the Pole Line Road to Hatches Harbor, Race Point North to an area 0.1 miles east of the crossover road - this includes the Race Point North SCV area, Race Point South down to exit 8 - this includes the Race Point South SCV area, and Coast Guard ORV corridor for night fishing (1.9 miles).
The corridor map is being updated on the Park's web page as changes occur Follow the link and click on CURRENT ORV ROUTE MAP.
Let me know what you think of the map. We're hoping this is more user friendly than the 24-hour information line. There are still plenty of seasonal permits available.
The Rangers will be at Spring Meet to sell Stickers on Sunday 9-12, CASH only!
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 04/12/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Up to date information can be found on the MBBA message board at http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .
The Beach opens this month on the 15th and our project is scheduled for the 5th of May, I’m hoping for a great turnout and hope to see you there.
Annual ORV Permits went on sale starting Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Maximum of 150 permits issued per day
(Tickets will NOT be issued starting at 6am for the 150 available permits. Due to the success of the changes made to the permit issuing procedure, the 150 daily sales limit was never reached and seasonal and 7-Day permits were available throughout the year.)
Hours:
8:00am to 4:30pm
Seven days a week (including all holidays)
Price:
ORV Annual - $150
ORV 7-Day - $50
SCV Annual - $225
SCV 7-Day - $75
There will be up to 400 7-Day permits active at any time and 3000 annual permits available.
An Advanced Sales System is available for 7-Day permits. Two hundred (200) of the 400 7-Day permits offered will be available through the Advanced Sales System. The remaining 200 7-Day permits will be issued, in person, on a first-come, first-served basis at the Oversand Station at Race Point.
Only 7-Day permits may be obtained through the Advanced Sales System.
Weekly permits will go on sale through the Advanced Sales System on March 1.
When considering a 7-Day permit, be aware that as the Piping Plover population increases, the amount of ORV corridor may decrease significantly during June and July. There will be no refunds.
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 03/18/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Up to date information can be found on the MBBA message board at http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .
I was on the beach the other day and it was beautiful, wide and flat, it’s been a mild winter with no harsh nor’easters; I can’t wait to go back again!
On Saturday March 3rd I attended the Public Hearing on the CCNS Environmental Assessment, OPTIONS FOR MANAGING ORV ACCESS, which is a document that lists the proposed changes and the pro’s and con’s of the changes. This all came about from the previous hearing concerning the total closure last summer and adjustments that could be made to keep it from happening again. None of the proposed changes will be implemented unless we get to a ½ mile of beach or less.
Open access to the ORV corridor near High Head and Head of the Meadow prior to July 1st.
Open access to the ORV corridor north of High Head prior to July 21st.
Open access to Coast Guard Beach in Truro to daytime ORV use until June 30th.
As a last resort, permit ORV access to .4 miles of beach at Herring Cove north, with access from the existing parking lot until June 30th.
Pilgrim Heights will remain the SCV area along with the Visitor Center, Race Point Beach and Head of the Meadow may also be used for SCV’s up to June 30th.
In the case of near to total closure the Seashore will continue to waive day use beach fees for ORV and SCV permit holders at Race Point Beach, Head of the Meadow and Herring Cove Beach.
It is important that you send a comment to George Price expressing your support of these changes as the other alternative is no changes at all.
Please submit your comments before March 17th. to support the preferred option as written. While Jack Clark of MA Audubon spoke highly and eloquently about the MBBA and the beach management, I don’t agree with his comments about Herring Cove North, I believe it should be left in as an option, if all of the conditions are right ie the beach is wide enough and flat, no blowouts and no birds, why not have it as an option if nothing else is available. I believe that his contention that driving over the beach in a blowout area hurts the “healing process” is more of an opinion than scientific fact.
George Price, Superintendent, Cape Cod National Seashore, 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Or email to G_Price@nps.gov
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 02/22/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
No big changes from last month, the beach is still closed and in the winter mode, let’s hopes or mild winter continues!
Plans are being made for 4th of July, 2007, which falls on a Wednesday, details on cut off times and such for weekend arrivals will go out in the reservation letters. Keep an eye on the message board for any new developments. http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .
Cape Cod NS
Environmental Assessment ORV 2007
Public Meeting and Environmental Assessment (EA) Review for Improved Off Road Vehicle Access during Piping Plover Nesting Season
Superintendent George Price and the park staff along with members of the public have been working on management options for ORV access to try to avoid last summer's total closure of the ORV Corridor because of plover nesting patterns. An Environmental Assessment (EA) under National Environmental Protection Act has been prepared. Late last year, the Cape Cod National Seashore Advisory Commission presented the superintendent with recommendations to improve off-road vehicle (ORV) access and maintain piping plover protection for next season. The Commission's ORV Subcommittee held a public meeting and workshop on December 9, 2006 where National Park Service staff reviewed the current program and the options explored for improving ORV access. The next step in the process is a meeting at Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown off Race Point Road on Saturday March 3, 2007 at 10:00 A.M. to solicit public comment on the newly released Environmental Assessment of modifications to the ORV program. The general public and all interested parties are invited to attend the meeting.
Contact Information
Steve Prokop, Chief Ranger, (508) 349-3785 x213
February 15, 2007
Dear Interested Party:
We have been working on management options for off-road vehicle (ORV) access to try to avoid last summer's total daytime access closure of the ORV Corridor because of piping plover nesting patterns. An Environmental Assessment (EA) under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) has been prepared. The next step in the process is a meeting at Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown, off Race Point Road, on Saturday March 3, 2007 at 10:00 A.M. to solicit public comment on the newly released EA of modifications to the ORV program. The general public and all interested parties are invited to attend the meeting.
The EA was prepared in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) to evaluate the impacts of the project on the human environment, and provide an opportunity for the public to review and comment on the project. Copies for review are available at local libraries, the Salt Pond Visitor Center, and can be accessed online at: http://parkplanning.nps.gov or through the parks website at www.nps.gov/caco. Comments can be sent to the Superintendent, Cape Cod National Seashore, and 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, Massachusetts, 02667. Telephone: (508) 349-3785, Fax: (508) 349-9052, or directly on the park planning website noted above. A thirty day public comment period begins today, February 15, 2007, and closes on March 17, 2007.
Thank you for your interest in ORV management,
Sincerely,
George E. Price, Jr.
Superintendent
Contact Information
Steve Prokop, Chief Ranger, (508) 349-3785 x213
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep.
Updated 01/08/2007
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is closed for the year. Meetings are continuing to help alleviate access issues for 2007, no alternative access points are currently planned, and primarily the plan is to adjust the opening dates at High Head, Head of the Meadow and the beach north of High Head to a much earlier time. There is also discussion of Herring Cove north of the parking lot and daytime use of Coast Guard Beach but those would only be until June 30th. Presently the issues are being considered by the Advisory Committee and then will be forwarded to the superintendent for implementation (if we have a repeat near or total closure). The MBBA Beach Access Committee continues its work on these and other issues on all of our beaches. Up to date information can be found on the MBBA message board at http://www.mbba.net/message.htm .
Peter Murray, CCNS Beach Rep
Updated 12/5/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is closed for the year. I’d like to thank everyone for their help and support in these difficult times. Now that the rigs and rods are put away till spring time it’s a great time to send a letter to the beach superintendent about your concerns. There is a public hearing scheduled for December 9, 2006 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon at the Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown to discuss how management of the Off Road Vehicle (ORV) Corridor may be improved in the future when closures are necessitated by piping plover activity. The Cape Cod National Seashore’s Citizens Advisory Commission ORV Subcommittee will host and moderate the meeting with the goal of seeking possible solutions from the public. I hope to see a good turnout, members of the Beach Access Committee will be present to represent the club to see what direction the ORV sub-committee will take and what we can do to move the process along. More details about this meeting are posted on the message board.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 10/25/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is open from Hatches Harbor to Head of the Meadow; there are some steep angled cuts. Although we are back on the beach remember June & July! There is a ton of work to do and your help and support will be required to get it done and make next year better. I still encourage you to write a letter to the park service with your comments and questions concerning the beach and closures. Address them to: George Price, Superintendent, Cape Cod National Seashore, 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02633.
The beach has taken a beating from the recent storms and I am always amazed with the amount of sand that moves and how deep the cuts and drop offs can be after a storm. I just saw 8 to 13 foot swells predicted for the weekend with a 30 MPH Northeast wind, so I expect we will see more erosion as the beach moves into the fall & winter mode.
I have reports of some nice fish being taken (from the boats).
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 9/14/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is open from Hatches Harbor to Head of the Meadow; there are some steep angled cuts. Although we are back on the beach remember June & July! There is a ton of work to do and your help and support will be required to get it done and make next year better. I still encourage you to write a letter to the park service with your comments and questions concerning the beach and closures. Address them to: George Price, Superintendent, Cape Cod National Seashore, 99 Marconi Site Road, Wellfleet, MA 02633.
The beach has taken a beating from the recent storms and I am always amazed with the amount of sand that moves and how deep the cuts and drop offs can be after a storm. I just saw 8 to 13 foot swells predicted for the weekend with a 30 MPH Northeast wind, so I expect we will see more erosion as the beach moves into the fall & winter mode.
I have reports of some nice fish being taken (from the boats).
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 9/5/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is open from Hatches Harbor to Head of the Meadow; there are some steep angled cuts. Although we are back on the beach remember June & July! There is a ton of work to do and your help and support will be required to get it done and make next year better. I hope to see many of you at a MBBA board meeting in the future. Many thanks to my “active” Courtesy Patrol who did a great job getting the news out and keeping crazy rumors to a minimum during this very trying time.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 7/24/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
High Head is open for SCV’s 30 feet and under, Head of the meadow access is also open as well as Coast Guard Beach (for night fishing only), Hatches Harbor and the Pole line route is open to ORV traffic. Expect a small SCV area on Race Point north around the 25th of July, it should expand around the middle of August as well as the Race Point south side should reopen at the same time. I post reports on the message board as soon as I can and urge you to call ahead for up to date information before driving down.
Some GOOD news the park has agreed to move the hard top SCV area from Pilgrim Heights to the Province lands Visitor center, lower parking lot, the bugs are just as bad, but maybe better air circulation could help and the view is wonderful from there.
Race point North now has a small SCV area.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 6/15/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
We are well into Plover Season and have a bunch of pairs nesting and a bunch that could potentially nest in the ORV corridor. There are nests near the entrances to the south and north SCV areas and as of today both SCV areas are closed, the Pilgrim Heights parking lot is our only camping area right now. Hopefully the fair weather will hold, the birds will fledge soon and be gone, keep your fingers crossed!
There is lively debate ongoing on the web site message board, check it out and add your own two cents worth, it’s a good way to see how our members feel about the beach, its management and even your MBBA beach rep.!
6/7/06
Race Point north is open except for the 1/10th of a mile stretch near the hatteras ramp, there are other nest of concern on the north side that are due to hatch soon and will restrict travel.
Race Point south is closed due a nest just north of the access trail that hatched 4 chicks last week, there are two more nests in the area of the SCV area that are due to hatch on or around the 22nd.
Unless things change we are looking at a 4th of July like years past, very crowded, and not much beach. High head is very narrow this year and there is a nest just north of the access trail.
We are looking at some alternate areas to alleviate some of the pressures, I will try to keep the message board up to date and recommend that everyone call ahead before making the long drive only to be disappointed.
As always please contact me if you have any questions or need any help.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 5/12/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Note from CCNS:
As of this morning we have sold 1,790 seasonal permits. I was out yesterday on the beach between Hatches Harbor and exit 8 and it looks better than it did this time last year. The narrow section on Race Point north from the cross over road to Hatches Harbor is still very narrow. The narrow section of the beach extends west beyond the cross over road. Both sections east and west of the cross over road are marked one way (westerly direction). I'm hoping this section becomes wider in the early part of the season and we can get a second track in and open it up to two way traffic.
May was a rough month on the beach and birds last year. Lets hope we don't have a repeat.
We have had our first two plover pairs lay their first eggs. Both nests are on Race Point north beach. We were able to get the Race Point south access worked on three weeks ago and it looks good. This may need a little touchup if we get a few more windy days last the last two we just had.
Craig Thatcher - North District Ranger
Cape Cod National Seashore
Our conservation project starts off the month and kicks off the season for many of us, we paid our dues last year with the lousy weather and the birds re-nesting, I hope that this year will be a good one and everyone can enjoy a wonderful summer with family & friends. As always please contact me if you have any questions or need any help.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 4/14/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach will open on April 15th..
The Conservation Project for 2006 is scheduled for May 6th..
Opening day for ORV permit sales is Wednesday, March 29, 2006
The number of annual permits sold at the Over sand station will be limited to 150 per day. This means annual permits will be available from March 29 to April 17 at a minimum. (they were available for the entire 2005 season). People are encouraged to consider arriving on dates other than the first day or the first weekend.
Vehicles will not be allowed in any Cape Cod National Seashore parking area before 6:00 AM on any day during the opening of the season. Anyone with a vehicle in any parking area before 6:00 AM will be denied a permit that day.
Call the Off-Road Information Line for station hours, current driving conditions, closures and other information: (508) 487-3698
4-Wheel/All Wheel Drive Vehicles or Self-Contained recreational vehicles must have: a valid state registration, inspection sticker, insurance, tires meeting standards outlined in this brochure and all required accessory equipment. Rental vehicles are prohibited.
Note from April 11th... The seasonal ORV permit sales are going even smoother this year as compared to last year. We started out selling app. 110 permits per day for the first week (didn't sell out any day). Now it has slowed down to about 60 - 80 permits per day. The weekly permit sales are following suit, where there isn't the big push early in the season. It appears that people have confidence enough in permits being available when they come out for there first visit that they aren't making the special trip in early spring just to get their permits.
As of this afternoon (04/10), we have sold 988 ORV seasonal permits and 96 SCV seasonal permits - 1,083 total. Craig Thatcher - North District Ranger
I will keep the message board on the web site up to date as sales go on; http://www.mbba.net/message.htm
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 3/12/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is closed until April 15th. except for limited access permits. Call ahead before driving down as the over sand office is not open everyday during the winter.
CONSERVATION PROJECT INFORMATION
The Conservation Project for 2006 is scheduled for May 6th, I hope everyone will come out to help and support our beach and also me in my new job as Conservation Chairman.
Opening day for ORV permit sales is Wednesday, March 29, 2006
The number of annual permits sold at the Oversand Station will be limited to 150 per day. This means annual permits will be available from March 29 to April 17 at a minimum. (they were available for the entire 2005 season). People are encouraged to consider arriving on dates other than the first day or the first weekend.
Vehicles will not be allowed in any Cape Cod National Seashore parking area before 6:00 AM on any day during the opening of the season. Anyone with a vehicle in any parking area before 6:00 AM will be denied a permit that day.
Call the Off-Road Information Line for station hours, current driving conditions, closures and other information: (508) 487-3698
4-Wheel/All Wheel Drive Vehicles or Self-Contained recreational vehicles must have: a valid state registration, inspection sticker, insurance, tires meeting standards outlined in this brochure and all required accessory equipment.Rental vehicles are prohibited.
Winter’s almost gone, get those rigs ready to go early, and remember, call or email me with any questions.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 2/9/2006
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION:
The beach is closed except for limited access permits. Call ahead before driving down as the over sand office is not open everyday during the winter.
I’m sure the beach has taken a pounding with the winter storms, but I can’t wait to get back there.
Reservation letters for the forth of July and Labor Day will be in mail soon from the Seashore, I hope everyone got the days they were hoping for. If you do get reservations but your plans change make sure you call and cancel as soon as you can, right now there approximately 20 people on the waiting lists.
As it stands right now High Head and Pilgrim Heights will remain as alternates if either Race Point North or South has to close due to the birds.
Have a great winter, and remember, Call or email me if you have any questions.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 1/14/2006
The beach is closed except for limited access permits. Call ahead before driving down as the over sand office is not open everyday during the winter.
Cliff White, Rudy Sawyer and I had a great meeting with Superintendent George Price, Chief Ranger Steve Prokop and North District Ranger Craig Thatcher. The discussions included:
- Wilderness Area designations, which is ongoing but should not affect any areas near ORV trails or access points. A plan must be filed so to that end they have applied for funds to do a research study.
- George offered to do a PowerPoint Presentation for the club sometime in the future on the topic of what the park will look like in the next 40 years.
- A possible new air-up station at High Head in the bus turn around area.
- Maintenance of access trails.
- Possible alternate access trails via fire roads, ect.
- The new sticker changes that were put in place and any potential adjustments (There may be a slight increase in the 7 day ORV sticker).
- Possibility of a dump station.
- The Blue Water Law suit.
It was a very positive meeting and I believe the future looks bright for us at the Seashore.
As I reported in the past annual stickers were available for the entire season, on the Self contained stickers it looks like 60+ annuals from 2004 did not get an annual sticker but the same number of vehicles got a weekly SCV sticker, so the self contained vehicle number stayed around 350, there were approximately 568 annual stickers left at the end of the season (368 plus the 200 used for weekly’s). The reservation system for weekly stickers was a success with approximately 50% of the weekly stickers sold being from reservations.
Have a great winter, and remember, Call or email me if you have any questions.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 12/20/2005
The beach closed on November 15th for the season except for limited access passes available if the beach is passable. If you plan on going down, call the guard shack first to check conditions and tides.
Mike Murray is the new Superintendent at Cape Hatteras. Mike was Deputy Superintendent here for 8 years, one year of which he spent as Acting Superintendent. His background is sure to be an asset there with their upcoming negotiated rule making process and possible change over to a fee based system, more details can be found at www.nps.gov/caha/pphtml/newsdetail20583.html
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 11/18/2005
The beach is definitely heading into winter mode and will close on November 15th for the season except for limited access passes available if the beach is passable. If you plan on going down, call the guard shack first to check conditions and tides.
Up to the closing date most of the beach is open including the stretch of Coast Guard beach to Long Nook which as always is open for night fishing only.
I’d like to thank my active Courtesy Patrol members for their help and support this season. I would also like to thank the Park Service for fixing the sticker situation and for their help and support during this years somewhat challenging beach season. The opening of High Head as an alternate self-contained area was a great help, along with the Pilgrim Heights parking area. They helped keep us at least close to the beach, if not on it, while the nesting birds had our regular areas closed. A very special thank you to North District Ranger Craig Thatcher for all of his help and guidance, The openness he displayed with all of the users keeping us informed of changes and adjustments is especially appreciated. His user friendly, fair policies and willingness to help sets a tremendous example for his wonderful staff who are also a pleasure to deal with.
By the way, seasonal passes were available for the entire season, for the first time in many years.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 10/26/2005
The beach is open, with fall fishing in full swing; I hope everyone has a chance to visit at least one more time before old man winter arrives. I'd like to thank everyone that helped out during the summer, our active Courtesy Patrol and my assistant Rep. Vic Medeiros for all of his support. Over the next few months we will continue to build support at CCNS for our goals and continued access. If anyone has questions or comments please contact me. Call or email me at any time
Peter Murray, Beach Rep
Updated 09/14/2005
After a long grueling wait the entire beach is open and in good shape, both self-contained areas are open with plenty of room for everyone. Bill Correia tells me the fishing is real good and Labor Day weekend was great. With the sticker issues behind us, we should have smooth sailing for a few years and hopefully have time to work on other issues. I believe the Park Service did a great job this year with all of the problems we had with the birds and I think they did everything in their power to keep us on the beach as much as possible.
Call or email me at any time
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 09/09/2005
Wow, what a summer, the late spring storms slowed down the Plovers nesting so we still have them on the front beach. Expect the North Self contained area to be closed for most of what's left of the season. The South side which was moved to High Head for all of July, (which was an excellent move by the park service) kept all but the big motor homes on the beach. I understand that the fishing is pretty good and that the South side has been expanded so everyone fits. Pilgrim Heights has been used for most of the summer as an ORV area for the bigger rigs. Hopefully everyone will continue to get along and live with the crowded conditions until the birds fly away.
Please keep up to date with the beach conditions prior to going to the beach, because of late nesting, the birds are still there and conditions will remain crowded. If you know before going what it will be like, there will be a lot less to complain about when you get there. The Park Service has worked very hard to accommodate us and give us access to fish.
Please remember that the park does not have the ability to change or adjust the Endangered Species Act, which has very strict guidelines they must follow. If you like or dislike the Plover take it up with US Fish and Wildlife. http://www.fws.gov
BEACH CONDITIONS
All of the ORV corridor is open at this time except two sections.
The first section is the Race Point North access route to an area 0.4 miles north (west) of the access point. This section encompasses the Race Point North SCV area. As long as the Race Point North SCV area is closed the temporary SCV area at Pilgrim Heights will remain open to accompany the larger SCV's that cannot negotiate the Race Point South hill.
The second section starts just north of the High Head access to an area near the old exit # 9. This encompasses an area just over one mile long.
On 8/5/05 the park closed the High Head access to vehicles. The Plover brood that was near the cut north of the High Head access has been observed south of the access point. The Head of the Meadow access is open up to within 0.2 miles of the High Head access at this time. The remainder of the ORV corridor remains the same as above.
Call or email me at any time
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Summer is here and of course the return of the nesting plovers, expect that the beach conditions will be similar to the past couple of years. Hopefully everyone will continue to get along and live with the crowded conditions until the birds fly away.
Blessing of the Fleet / Portuguese Parade announcement
The Provincetown Beach Reps. and Provincetown Courtesy Patrol will once again be participating this year in the annual Blessing of the Fleet / Portuguese Festival Parade to be held on Saturday June 25 th. at 5PM. The parade travels down the Main Street, right through the center of Provincetown and is viewed by thousands of people.
This year we will have some buggies with signs and waving members riding along.
If anyone has any questions or comments please contact Peter Murray or Bill Correia.
It is official Maria Burkes has moved on and George Price is the new Superintendent of the Cape Cod National Seashore, I look forward to continuing the great working relationship we have with the entire park staff.
BEACH CONDITIONS: The beach is still building and there is a lot of bird activity this year that will force closures, as it stands there are nests near the entrances to both self contained areas that will be hatching around the end of June , beginning of July. This will make the 4 th of July uncomfortable for all, if you have vacations planned call ahead first to see where you will be "camping". As of today there are 25 nesting pairs in the ORV corridor. Letters from CCNS will be going out to inform families with SCV permits what the situation is. Up to date beach reports will be posted on the website all summer, check it out at www.mbba.net
Call or email me at any time
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 06/23/2005
Beach Conditions:
The beach is still building but there is a lot of bird activity this year that may force closures, as it stands there are nests near the entrances to both self contained areas that will be hatching around the end of June, beginning of July. This will make the 4th of July uncomfortable for all and probabally close both sides until the birds leave, if you have vacations planned call ahead first to see where you will be “camping”. As of today there are 25 nesting pairs in the ORV corridor. Letters from CCNS will be going out to inform families with SCV permits what the situation is. Up to date beach reports will be posted on the website all summer.
Summer is here and of course the return of the nesting plovers, expect that the beach conditions will be similar to the past couple of years. Hopefully everyone will continue to get along and live with the crowded conditions until the birds fly away.
Blessing of the Fleet / Portuguese Parade announcement
The Provincetown Beach Reps. and Provincetown Courtesy Patrol will once again be participating this year in the annual Blessing of the Fleet / Portuguese Festival Parade to be held on Saturday June 25th. at 5PM. The parade travels down the Main Street, right through the center of Provincetown and is viewed by thousands of people.
This year we will have some buggies with signs and waving members riding along.
If anyone has any questions or comments please contact Peter Murray or Bill Correia.
It is official Maria Burkes has moved on and George Price is the new Superintendent of the Cape Cod National Seashore, I look forward to continuing the great working relationship we have with the entire park staff.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 05/25/2005
There are just over 600 seasonal permits available at this time.
With the current sales trend, it appears they will have permits
available into the month of June. We haven't had permits available
in June since 2001. They continue to sell the Advanced Sales weekly
permits. There haven't been any weeks that have sold out at this
time.
The beach is in good condition at this time. There are no significant
changes. There is a small cut that has developed north of the Race
Point North SCV area that should rebuild soon.
A dead adult Piping Plover was picked up in the ORV track in the
Race Point South SCV area on 2 May. It was run over by a vehicle.
A necropsy is being done on the bird at this time.
The MBBA conservation project, scheduled for 14 May, will be set
up the same as last year. We will meet in the lower parking lot
at 9:30
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 04/22/2005
As most of you have heard or experienced the changes put in place
by Cape Cod National Seashore with sticker sales have been a tremendous
success. Questions remain on the effect of the additional weekly
stickers and the 7 day SCV stickers, but we will have to experience
that when the beach gets busy. Thank you to all of those who participated
in the process, most of the comments made at the public hearings
were considered and I believe that shows a great willingness on
the part of the Seashore to work with the various user groups to
enact the changes that they did.
Our spring cleanup project is scheduled for May 14th this year,
let’s plan now to have a great turnout.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 03/12/2005
Reservation letters for the 4th of July and Labor Day have been
mailed, there were some noticeable double ups so if you get a reservation
you don’t need please call and cancel it as soon as you can
to help the people on the waiting list. Also it looks like the commercial
Striped Bass season will start on the 10th of July so if that changes
your plans please call and cancel un-needed reservations.
A new acting Superintendent George Price has been appointed until
Maria Burke’s status at Ellis Island changes. Mike Murray
is back at his Deputy job and happy to have just one job again.
Mike was a pleasure to work with in Maria’s absence and during
the sticker policy changes helped make the process easier for everyone.
The Brochure, “The Policy and Procedure Changes for 2005
Off-Road Vehicle Permit Process” is on line at http://www.nps.gov/caco/activities
click on off-road vehicles. It will answer questions about the policy
changes.
Our spring cleanup project is scheduled for May 14th this year,
let’s plan now to have a great turnout.
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 02/28/2005
The Off road corridor officially closed on November 15th for the
season. Limited access passes are available to vehicles with an
annual sticker for 2004 (with restrictions). Call ahead for more
info at the number listed above. The office is not open every day
and access is limited by the tides.
Joe Courtemanche visited the beach after the blizzard and reported
that the ocean broke thru the dunes in two spots and washed out
over the upper parking lot, at high tide the bathing beach was under
water.
The Park Service has mailed the brochure titled “The Policy
and Procedure Changes for 2005 Off-Road Vehicle Permit Process”
to everyone that had a sticker last year and so far I have some
very positive feed back, but I’d like to hear more, if you
have a second drop me a line. If you need another copy or didn’t
get one, it’s on line at http://www.nps.gov/caco/activities
click on off-road vehicles.
The big question is still, what day to go and try to get an annual
sticker without getting turned back!
Have a great winter, and remember,
Call or email me with any questions any time!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 12/4/2004
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The beach is closed except for special permits.
Excerpt from CCNS News Release
In response to the recommendations, the following changes will
occur:
The park will be mailing out an informational newsletter this
week to all ORV permit holders from the 2005 season detailing how
permits will be distributed beginning in 2005. Annual ORV permits
will go on sale at the Oversand Station at Race Point on Wednesday,
March 30, 2005, which is earlier than in previous years. The number
of annual permits sold will be limited to 150 per day, which means
that annual permits will be available from March 30 through April
18, at a minimum. The permit fee structure has been changed to make
7-day permits more attractive to short-term or infrequent users.
The number of 7-day permits has been increased from 200 to 400,
and now people with self-contained vehicles will be able to purchase
the 7-day permits. Up to 50% of the 7-day permits will be available
through an Advanced Sales System, which will be available beginning
March 1, 2005. The remaining 50% of 7-day permits will continue
to be available on a first-come, first-served basis throughout the
season. Fees have changed slightly.
ORV ANNUAL $150.00
SCV ANNUAL $225.00
ORV 7 DAY $ 30.00
SCV 7 DAY $ 75.00
Please read and understand the policy and procedure changes before
going to Race Point, sales will be limited to 150 stickers a day
and you cannot be in any of the parking lots prior to 6AM or they
will deny you your permit that day.
Have a great winter, enjoy the holidays and remember,
Call or email me with any questions any time!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 10/12/2004
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The following is open for 4WD vehicles:
Race Point South: OPEN
Race Point North: OPEN
Pole Line Route: OPEN No self-contained vehicles are permitted on
the Pole Line Route.
High Head is open.
High Head to Head of the Meadow and the Head of the Meadow Access
route is now closed for the season.
Coast Guard Beach, Truro to Longnook Beach, Truro is open for night
fishing only.
The beach took a beating in the last couple of storms and is very
narrow in places. Be aware that there are some sharp cuts between
Race Point South and High Head, use extreme caution when traversing
these cuts especially around high tide, If at all possible travel
with another vehicle in case you encounter problems.
ORV SUBCOMMITTEE REPORT (September 24, 2005)
The ORV Subcommittee of the Cape Cod National Seashore has completed
three public hearings, evaluated all of the comments from the meetings
and made the following recommendations to the Park Service.
- Communicate any decisions made concerning permits as early as
possible.
- Change sale start date to midweek and start sales two weeks
prior to beach opening.
- Adjust fee structure to make weekly permits more attractive.
- Increase the number of weekly permits (maximum of 400).
- Create a reservation system for weekly permits of not more than
50%.
- Limit the number of annual permits sold per day.
- Make weekly permits available for self-contained vehicles.
At this time I do not know which recommendations the Park Service
will implement for the 2005 season, I will update you as soon as
I know.
Peter Murray, President
Beach Representative
Updated 9/9/2004
Another Successful Summer:
We had our crowded moments because of the birds, but we made it
through with little or no problems. The rangers at Race Point continue
to be a pleasure to work with.
Beach Information:
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The following is open for 4WD vehicles:
Race Point South: OPEN
Race Point North: OPEN
Pole Line Route: OPEN No self-contained vehicles are permitted on
the pole line.
High Head is now open. Vehicles may travel south 0.4 of a mile and
north 1.7 of a mile.
Head of the Meadow is now open North 0.5 of a mile.
Coast Guard Beach, Truro to Longnook Beach, Truro is now open for
night fishing only.
Peter Murray, President
Beach Representative
Updated 8/17/2004
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
Effective July 28, 2005, vehicles will no longer be able to travel
across the Race Point Swimming beach to access the Race Point Beach
south access.
ROUTE CONDITIONS
The following is open for 4WD vehicles:
Race Point South:
Race Point South is OPEN approximately 0.7 of a mile. There is
an area marked for Self- Contained vehicle camping on the south
beach and the speed limit through the self-contained area is 5 mph.
Race Point North:
Race Point North access is completely open. Vehicles may travel
around the point to access Hatches Harbor. There is an area marked
for Self -Contained vehicle camping. The speed limit through the
Self- Contained area is 5 mph.
Pole Line Route:
Pole Line Route is open to the Race Point Lighthouse and Hatches
Harbor. The cut off road, off of the pole line route, may be used
to access points on the north beach. Please obey all posted signs.
No self-contained vehicles are permitted on the pole line.
High Head is now open. Vehicles may travel south 0.4 of a mile
and north 1.7 of a mile.
Head of the Meadow:
Head of the Meadow is now open North 0.5 of a mile.
Coast Guard Beach, Truro to Longnook Beach, Truro is now open for
night fishing only.
Again, these conditions are current as of Saturday July 31, 2005
– but may change at any time – please obey all closures.
Call or email me with any questions!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 7/13/2004
I had the honor of meeting Fran Mainella, The Director of the National
Park Service this past weekend. Fran was here on an official visit
and got to tour the park, including the beach. Acting Superintendent
Mike Murray made the introduction and offered high praise for the
MBBA as the largest and oldest user group using the beach and for
our conservation efforts.
Beach Information:
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION - ROUTE CONDITIONS
The north self-contained vehicle camping area is open for .01 (one
tenth) of a mile. Self –Contained Vehicle’s may travel
across the Race Point swimming beach between the hours of 6PM and
8AM to gain access to the south Self -Contained Vehicle camping
area. Only Self -Contained Vehicles and vehicles towing boats to
the south Self -Contained Vehicle camping area are permitted to
use this access. All other traffic must use the Race Point south
access, which is open 24 hours per day. The speed limit through
this area is 5MPH
The following is open for 4WD vehicles:
Race Point South:
Race Point South is OPEN approximately .05 of a mile. There is an
area marked for Self- Contained vehicle camping on the south beach
and the speed limit through the South Self-contained area is 5 mph.
Race Point North:
Race Point North access is open .02 of a mile. .01 has been designated
for self-contained vehicles. Also, self-contained vehicles may access
the south self - contained vehicle camping area by the Race Point
South access or by the method mentioned previously. The speed limit
through the South Self- Contained area is 5 mph.
Pole Line Route:
Pole Line Route is open to the Race Point Lighthouse and Hatches
Harbor. The cut off road, off of the pole line route, may be used
to access approximately .01 of a mile north. However, vehicles cannot
travel around the point due to beach conditions. Also, the cut off
road may be used for vehicles traveling south for .06 of a mile.
Please obey all posted signs. No self-contained vehicles are permitted
on the pole line.
High Head is now open.
Coast Guard Beach, Truro to Longnook Beach, Truro is now open.
Again, these conditions are current as of Thursday July 1, 2005
– but may change at any time – please obey all closures.
Please call the ORV Information line at 508-487-3698 before leaving
home for a current status.
Updated 6/23/2004
ORV ROUTE INFORMATION
The north self-contained camping area is closed for resource management
reasons. Self –Contained Vehicle’s may travel across
the Race Point swimming beach between the hours of 6AM and 8AM and
again between 6PM and 8PM only to travel to the south Self Contained
Vehicle camping area. Only Self -Contained Vehicles and vehicles
towing boats to the south Self Contained Vehicle camping area are
permitted to use this access. All other traffic must use the Race
Point south access, which is open 24 hours per day. The speed limit
through this area is 5MPH
The following is open for 4WD vehicles:
Race Point South is OPEN approximately .04 of a mile. There is
an area marked for Self- Contained vehicle camping on the south
beach and the speed limit through the south self-contained area
is 5 mph.
Race Point North access is CLOSED All self-contained vehicles may
access the south self - contained vehicle area by the Race Point
South access or by the method mentioned previously. The speed limit
through the south contained area is 5 mph.
Pole Line Route is open to the Race Point Lighthouse only. Hatches
Harbor is closed due to beach conditions. Designated parking has
been established at the end of the pole line, before the Race Point
lighthouse. The cut off road, off of the pole line route, may be
used to access the point on north beach side. However, vehicles
cannot travel entirely around the point due to beach conditions
and the point is not accessible at all during high tide. Please
obey all posted signs. No self-contained vehicles are permitted
on the pole line.
High Head is closed. The route is open from the paved High Head
parking to the parking area on the foredune for the purpose of parking
for fishing only.
Coast Guard Beach, Truro to Longnook Beach, Truro is now open.
Again, these conditions are current as of Tuesday June 23, 2005
– but may change at any time – please obey all closures.
Please call the ORV Information line at 508-487-3698 before leaving
home for a current status.
Peter Murray, President
Beach Representative
Updated 6/2/2004
Beach Information:
We had the first birds hatch this morning on the Race Point North
beach app. halfway between the ranger station and Race Point. We
have 10 other nests on Race Point North. Two were abandoned and
one nest was destroyed by a coyote. The birds that had there nest
destroyed have renested closer to the ranger station and could be
a concern if the eggs hatch. I'll keep you updated on this nest
(RPN #9).
Race Point South has 12 nests. The northern most nest is 0.3 miles
south of the Race Point Beach.
The earliest nests are hatching this week. Others will be hatching
later this month.
Craig Thatcher - North District Ranger
Cape Cod National Seashore
The above information makes it look like July 4th week could once
again be very crowded; with the first nest on the south side it
could be worse than 2 years ago, assuming that the north side closes.
Hatches Harbor beach is much smaller this year and the day vehicles
will be sharing the rest of the beach, hopefully everyone will be
courtesies and get along till the birds fledge.
One point to consider is that with the commercial bass season not
opening until the 11th of July many of the commercial license holders
may wait till the opening day to come down.
Updated 5/2/2004
It took one week to sell out of the 3200 annual permits. Weekly
permits will be available on a first come, first served basis with
a limit of 200 per week. Self contained vehicles that did not get
a sticker are out of luck. We will stay on top of any developing
changes and inform the membership in a timely manor. If you saw
my request on the home page for your comments or suggestions concerning
the sticker situation please jot down a note and send it along.
Thank you to all of you that have already done so.
Current Beach conditions:
The beach looks normal for May with the biggest change being Hatches
Harbor where we lost a lot of beach over the winter. The hill to
the back side is steep, and I can’t wait to get back there!
Conservation Project:
We had a good turnout for the conservation project and got a lot
done, thanks to all that attended, the weather was great and Bill
Correia did a great job with the hot dogs. Ranger Chris Anderson
traveled all day Friday to get back from a training school in Virginia,
so he could coordinate the event. He was happy with the outcome
said that the park service was pleased at what we accomplished.
Again THANK YOU ALL.
Call or email me with any questions!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 4/2/2004
STICKER INFORMATION FOR 2005
SELF CONTAINED VEHICLES ONLY (SCV’s)
If a SCV has had a previous 2003 oversand sticker assigned from
Cape Cod National Seashore, the registered owners will not have
to bring the RV to the oversand building to get a sticker this year.
The registered owner will need to bring a copy of the SCV's registration
and a sticker will be assigned to the vehicle. The sticker will
be held at the oversand office and the owner will need to get the
sticker put on the vehicle on their first visit.
The new ORV sticker pricing will be as follows:
Self Contained Vehicles $150.00
ORV Annual Vehicle $100.00
ORV Weekly Vehicle $45.00
Stickers go on sale April 10th, they could sell out in 7 or 8 days
so don’t wait!
The parking lots at Race Point are not intended as a camping area,
if you're arriving to get a sticker the night before please make
plans to camp elsewhere. This does not apply to during the day while
waiting for stickers.
The Conservation project for this year is April 24th. Mark your
calendars!
Call or email me with questions any time!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
Updated 2/2/2004
The new Chief Ranger Steve Prokop has arrived to fill the position
vacated by Kevin Fitzgerald.
Details are still being finalized concerning 2005 stickers and
any pricing changes. I am in contact with the Seashore and will
keep everyone up to date as information comes in.
The Off road corridor officially closed on November 15th
for the season. Limited access passes are available to vehicles
with an annual sticker for 2003 (with restrictions). Call ahead
for more info at the number listed above.
Have a great winter, and remember,
Call or email me with questions any time!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
January 4, 2004 Reservations for 4th of July and Labor Day weekends
should be in the mail.
Details are being finalized concerning 2005 stickers and any pricing
changes. I am in contact with the Seashore and will keep everyone
up to date as information comes in.
The Off road corridor officially closed on November 15th
for the season. Limited access passes are available to vehicles
with an annual sticker for 2003 (with restrictions). Call ahead
for more info at the number listed above.
Have a great winter, enjoy the holidays and remember,
Call or email me with questions any time!
Peter Murray, Beach Rep.
When you are on the beach and have questions or problems look for
the Red, White Courtesy Patrol sticker. They are there to help.
Race Point Courtesy Patrol members are:
Peter & Robin Murray (Beach Rep (Peter))
Vic & Pam Medeiros (Assistant Beach Rep (Vic))
Tony & Barbara Cataldo
Bill & Angela Correia
Dan & Sheila Hayes
George & Diane Palmer
Jero & Linda Townsend
Joe & Jeanne Courtemanche
Peter & Gail Amaral
Contact MBBA webmaster
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