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September 02, 2009
NPS Lifeguard Beach Operations And Cape Point Campground Close For The Season; Reduced Climbing Hours For Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
National Park Service lifeguard beach operations and Cape Point campground will close for the season. Climbing hours for Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be reduced for the rest of the season.

August 28, 2009
Effects of Tropical Storm Danny on Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beaches
The National Weather Service has issued a tropical storm watch that includes all of Cape Hatteras National Seashore from Ocracoke Island to town of Nags Head, NC.  In preparation for potential impacts to the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, the National Park Service anticipates strong surf conditions, with dangerous rip currents and possible ocean overwash and the potential for flooding in some areas, such as beach access ramps. 

August 28, 2009
NPS Beach Access Report for August 27, 2009
Strong surf conditions, high tides and rip currents are expected along the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore over the next several days as Tropical Storm Danny continues a northern path in the Atlantic Ocean.  Portions of the beaches will experience heavy surf conditions and areas may be impassable during high tides.  Visitors may find closures of certain ramps and interdunal routes if storm overwash or flooding occurs.  Visitors should exercise caution while traveling in the park.  Pay close attention to tide changes, surf and wind conditions. 

August 27, 2009
NPS Offers September 4thFull Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of September 4, 2009.

August 25, 2009
Buxton Lifeguard Beach Operations Close For The Season
Cape Hatteras National Seashore lifeguard beach operations at Buxton Beach, adjacent to the Old Cape Hatteras Lighthouse site, closed Friday, August 21, 2009 for the 2009 season.  NPS lifeguard operations at Coquina Beach on Bodie Island and Ocracoke Beach on Ocracoke Island will continue through Labor Day, September 7th, 2009.  The hours of operation are 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

August 24, 2009
Off-Road Vehicle Beach Access Ramps Reopen After Storm
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the reopening of most off-road vehicle beach access ramps in Cape Hatteras National Seashore after the passing of Hurricane Bill offshore of the North Carolina coast.  The storm caused high tides, strong surf conditions and flooding, and resulted in the closure of all vehicular beach access ramps on Friday evening, August 21, 2009. 

August 21, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Impacts of Strong Surf Conditions
As Hurricane Bill passes east of the Outer Banks of North Carolina, the National Weather Service is predicting the coastal waters and beaches will experience the effects of the storm beginning in the afternoon hours of August 21, 2009.  Heavy surf conditions, with unusually high waves and dangerous rip currents, are predicted over the weekend with possible ocean overwash and flooding of roadways.

July 31, 2009
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 30, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches will be managed again this summer under the terms of the U.S. District Court approved consent decree.  Park visitors can expect to see resource closures for breeding shorebirds in effect to varying degrees from mid-March to mid-to-late-August and turtle nesting closures may occur until early November.  Shorebird pre-nesting closures have already been established at the inlets, Cape Point, and South Beach.  As soon as subsequent breeding activity is observed, the consent decree requires that automatic, non-discretionary buffers be implemented. 

July 20, 2009
Access Update for Ramp 27 south of Salvo and Ramp 45 in Buxton
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the reopening of two off-road vehicle (ORV) ramps on Hatteras Island.  Ramp 27, located approximately 4.5 miles south of Salvo, and Ramp 45 near Buxton are open effective immediately.

July 20, 2009
NPS Salutes Three Outer Banks Group Volunteers
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group earlier honored three of its outstanding volunteers.  Steve Jones, Joe Hardman, and Jerry Raveling have each contributed over 5,000 hours to the Wright Brothers National Memorial, thus earning the Outer Banks Group Volunteer Lifetime Achievement Award.

July 10, 2009
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 9, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches will be managed again this summer under the terms of the U.S. District Court approved consent decree.  Park visitors can expect to see resource closures for breeding shorebirds in effect to varying degrees from mid-March to mid-to-late-August and turtle nesting closures may occur until early November.  Shorebird pre-nesting closures have already been established at the inlets, Cape Point, and South Beach.  As soon as subsequent breeding activity is observed, the consent decree requires that automatic, non-discretionary buffers be implemented.

July 08, 2009
National Park Service Programs Enjoyed by Outer Banks Visitors
Each year, the National Park Service offers a wealth of free interpretive programs for visitors at the Outer Banks Group parks; Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.  Last year, these National Park Service sites, combined, gave 4,454 scheduled programs that were attended by over 226,000 visitors.  Additionally, 58,220 visitors attended film presentations and 11,175 children were sworn in as Junior Rangers.

June 25, 2009
Correction on June 25, 2009 Beach Access Report
Correction on June 25, 2009 Beach Access Report

June 25, 2009
Beach Access Report for June 25, 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season,  and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print.   ** All distances are approximate .**  The weekly Beach Access Report is complemented by a Google Earth map, which is updated up to 5 times per week as access conditions change. The latest Google Earth beach access map can be viewed at:   http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/googleearthmap.htm

June 23, 2009
NPS Offers Summer Volunteer Opportunities to Hatteras Island Teens
The National Park Service invites all Hatteras Island uprising 7 th  -12 th  graders to join in some exciting summer volunteer experiences to: assist in staffing the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on the monthly full moon and weekly moonlight climbs; help a ranger teach visitors about the creatures of the sound and sea at a soundside seining program; and join other teens in field projects that will aid in protecting the seashore.

June 15, 2009
Fee Free Summer Weekends at Wright Brothers National Memorial
America’s Best Idea – the national parks – gets even better this summer….three “fee-free” weekends!  The National Park Service will offer three “fee-free” weekends this summer to encourage Americans seeking affordable vacations to visit their national treasures.  On Saturday and Sunday, June 20-21, 2009 entrance fees for Wright Brothers National Memorial will be waived for park visitors. 

June 15, 2009
NPS Launches Beach Watch Program
Superintendent Mike Murray announces the implementation of a new volunteer “Beach Watch” program for the 2009 summer season.  The program’s goal is to prevent incidents of vandalism, crime, and damage to park resources and property, and to ensure the National Seashore is a safe place for the visiting public.

June 04, 2009
Beach Access Report for June 4, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches will be managed again this summer under the terms of the U.S. District Court approved consent decree.  Park visitors can expect to see resource closures for breeding shorebirds in effect to varying degrees from mid-March to mid-to-late-August and turtle nesting closures may occur until early November.  Shorebird pre-nesting closures have already been established at the inlets, Cape Point, and South Beach.  As soon as subsequent breeding activity is observed, the consent decree requires that automatic, non-discretionary buffers be implemented. 

June 01, 2009
NPS Offers June 2009 Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of Sunday June 7, 2009.

May 07, 2009
Beach Access Report for May 7, 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season, and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print.  **All distances are approximate.**  The weekly Beach Access Report is complemented by a Google Earth map, which is updated up to 5 times per week as access conditions change. The latest Google Earth beach access map can be viewed at:  http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/googleearthmap.htm

May 01, 2009
Outer Banks Group Begins Work on Projects at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group announces the start of numerous projects to be completed during 2009 summer and fall seasons.  These projects are being accomplished using funds provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the National Park Service (NPS), and Eastern National. 

April 30, 2009
Beach Access Report for April 30, 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season, and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print.  **All distances are approximate.**  The weekly Beach Access Report is complemented by a Google Earth map, which is updated up to 5 times per week as access conditions change. The latest Google Earth beach access map can be viewed at:  http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/googleearthmap.htm

April 29, 2009
National Park Service 2009 Spring Program Schedule Announced
Beginning May 1, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will be providing scheduled public programs for the pre-summer season at Wright Brothers National Memorial and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  These spring program schedules will run through May 22.

April 29, 2009
Outer Banks Group Receives Funding for Bodie Island Lighthouse and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Renovations
The Outer Banks Group announces the receipt of funding, from the 2009 Omnibus Budget bill approved by Congress and signed by President Obama, for restoring the Bodie Island Lighthouse and renovating facilities at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.  These projects are being funded through the Line Item Construction process within the National Park Service (NPS).

April 28, 2009
NPS Installs New Off-Road Vehicle Information
On April 21, 2009, the National Park Service began the installation of new off-road vehicle (ORV) information signs at beach access ramps in accordance with paragraph 29 of the court ordered consent decree. 

April 27, 2009
Nighttime Driving Restriction on Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beaches begins May 1
Superintendent Mike Murray reminds park visitor that beginning May 1, 2009 all Seashore beaches are closed to off-road vehicles (ORVs) between the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. in accordance with the court ordered consent decree.  Enforcement of the restriction will begin at midnight on April 30, 2009.  The 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. prohibition on beach driving will remain in effect until November 15. 

April 24, 2009
National Park Service and Dare Community Crime Line
The National Park Service (NPS) and the Dare Community Crime Line are working together to apprehend and arrest suspect(s) involved in crimes within Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

April 23, 2009
Beach Access Report for April 23, 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season, and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print.  **All distances are approximate.**  The weekly Beach Access Report is complemented by a Google Earth map, which is updated up to 5 times per week as access conditions change. The latest Google Earth beach access map can be viewed at:  http://www.nps.gov/caha/planyourvisit/googleearthmap.htm

April 21, 2009
Be A National Park Service Junior Ranger! April 25, 2009
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray invites children throughout the Outer Banks to take part in National Junior Ranger Day at their local national park sites on Saturday, April 25.  “Becoming a Junior Ranger is a fun way for children to explore and learn more about the National Parks and how they can help protect these important sites,” stated Murray.  

April 16, 2009
Celebrate National Park Week!
National Park Week is an annual presidentially proclaimed week for celebration and recognition of Your National Parks.

April 16, 2009
Beach Access Report for April 16, 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season, and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print.

April 14, 2009
NPS Announces Cape Point Closure
Acting Park Superintendent Paul Stevens announced the temporary ORV access closure of the popular Cape Point area in accordance with the requirements of the consent decree.

April 13, 2009
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse To Open Friday, April 17
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will open to the public for climbing from April 17 through Columbus Day, October 12, 2009.  Climbing fees for the Lighthouse will be $7 per adult, and $3.50 for children under 12 and senior citizens. Children must be at least 42” tall Children must be capable of climbing all steps on their own No person may be lifted or carried Children under the age of 12 years old must be escorted by an adult.

April 09, 2009
Beach Access Report for April 9 2009
The Beach Access Report is issued every Thursday throughout the breeding season, and updated news will be reported weekly in bold, BLUE print. 

April 09, 2009
Dogs on Seashore Must be on Leash
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that, due to concerns about potential negative impacts to wildlife, there will be a focused effort this season to improve compliance at Cape Hatteras National Seashore with the existing National Park Service (NPS) regulation requiring dogs to be leashed in all units of the national park system.

April 02, 2009
Addendum to April 2, 2009 Beach Access Report
**An additional RESOURCE protection area has been implemented since the Beach Access Report was issued earlier today.

April 02, 2009
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 2, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches will be managed again this summer under the terms of the U.S. District Court approved consent decree.  Park visitors can expect to see resource closures for breeding shorebirds in effect to varying degrees from mid-March to mid-to-late-August and turtle nesting closures may occur until early November.  Shorebird pre-nesting closures have already been established at the inlets, Cape Point, and South Beach.  As soon as subsequent breeding activity is observed, the consent decree requires that automatic, non-discretionary buffers be implemented.

April 01, 2009
CAHA Off-Road Vehicle Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee Final Report is Available to the Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee for Off-Road Vehicle Management for Cape Hatteras National Seashore submitted the final report to the National Park Service (NPS) on March 30, 2009.

April 01, 2009
Vandalism of Resource Protection Area Closure Signs Results in Additional Expansion of Buffers
Two new vandalism incidents have resulted in expanded buffers at shorebird protection areas in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  Both incidents, discovered over the weekend, are being investigated by NPS law enforcement personnel, and were evaluated by park management on Monday, March 30, 2009.

March 26, 2009
National Park Service Beach Access Report for March 26, 2009
Welcome to the first weekly Beach Access Report of the 2009 season for Cape Hatteras National Seashore!   Seashore beaches will be managed again this summer under the terms of the U.S. District Court approved consent decree.

March 24, 2009
NPS Develops Plan for Powerline Maintenance in South Nags Head
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that as a result of discussions between representatives of the National Park Service (NPS), Dominion Power, the Town of Nags Head, and concerned residents of South Nags Head, a revised plan of action will be implemented, effective immediately, for the clearing of vegetation under the powerline corridor on park property.

March 23, 2009
NPS Announces Shorebird Breeding Area Closures
Superintendent Mike Murray announced two shorebird breeding area closures that are being implemented in accordance with the consent decree that was approved by the U.S. District Court on April 30, 2008.

March 12, 2009
Park Ranger Paul Stevens Receives Regional Award
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that long-time Outer Banks Group employee Paul K. Stevens has received the 2009 NPS Southeast Region Harry Yount Park Ranger Award.  The peer-nominated honor, named after the first known national park ranger, recognizes excellence in the field of “rangering.”

March 10, 2009
NPS WORK CREW INSTALL BEACH ACCESS RAMP COUNTERS
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that National Park Service (NPS) staff will install new traffic counters on five of the beach access ramps beginning March 11, 2009.

March 09, 2009
Park Establishes Pre-Nesting Areas for 2009 Shorebird Breeding Season
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that National Park Service (NPS) staff will establish the 2009 pre-nesting areas for breeding shorebirds in Cape Hatteras National Seashore during the week of March 9th in accordance with the terms of the consent decree.

March 02, 2009
Hyde and Dare Co. Schools to Participate in NPS Teacher Program
Hyde and Dare County Schools have signed agreements with the National Park Service Outer Banks Group to participate in a National Park Service teacher developmental program, “Teacher–Ranger–Teacher”, this coming summer.

February 20, 2009
2009 Pre-nesting Closure Information Available to the Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) 2009 pre-nesting closure summary description and maps have been released and are available to the public on the PEPC website under the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy project at: http://parkplanning.nps.gov/projectHome.cfm?parkId=358&projectId=13331

February 13, 2009
Cape Hatteras National Seashore 2009 Campground Season
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Oregon Inlet, Frisco, and Ocracoke Campgrounds will open to the public on Friday, April 3, 2009. Oregon Inlet and Frisco Campgrounds will remain open through Columbus Day, October 12, 2009. The Ocracoke Island Campground is on a reservation system and will remain open through October 26, 2009. Cape Point Campground in Buxton, on Hatteras Island, opens Friday, May 22, 2009 for Memorial weekend and closes on September 7, 2009.

February 04, 2009
NPS Reports Available to the Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) 2008 annual reports for protected species and a report on the status of off-road vehicle management plan and negotiated rulemaking have been released and are available to the public on the PEPC website.

January 30, 2009
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS FOR PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS TO NC 12 ON BODIE ISLAND
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS), in cooperation with the Federal Highway Administration, is seeking public comment on the proposed highway improvements on 5.28 miles of NC 12 on Bodie Island, from Whalebone Junction to the Bodie Island District Ranger Station at Coquina Beach Access Road.

January 20, 2009
OUTER BANKS GROUP VISITOR CENTERS CLOSE FOR WINTER STORM
As a winter storm sweeps across the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Superintendent Mike Murray announced that all Outer Banks Group visitor centers and Wright Brothers National Monument will be closed as of 2:30 p.m., January 20, 2009.

January 15, 2009
Negotiated Rulemaking Meeting to be Re-scheduled
Superintendent Mike Murray announces that the January 21-22, 2009 meeting of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee is canceled.  The February 3 meeting will occur as scheduled and a Federal Register Notice has been submitted to schedule a final meeting on Thursday – Friday, February 26 - 27, 2009.

November 05, 2008
Information Available on NPS ORV Management Alternatives
Superintendent Mike Murray announces that information about off-road vehicle (ORV) management alternatives being considered by the National Park Service (NPS) for Cape Hatteras National Seashore has been provided to the Seashore’s ORV management negotiated rulemaking advisory committee.

November 04, 2008
Summary of Options from Workbook Comments Available to Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the summary of options from the preliminary Alternative Options Workbook (Workbook) for the Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement is available to the public.

November 03, 2008
NPS to Allow Videotaping of 8th Negotiated Rulemaking Committee Meeting
Superintendent Mike Murray announces the decision to permit Dare County to videotape the upcoming 8th meeting of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee.  The 2-day meeting is scheduled to be held at Wright Brothers National Memorial on November 14-15, 2008.  The videotaping will be authorized under the terms and conditions of a special use permit.  The purpose of the videotaping is to provide video documentation of the meeting to share with the public via Dare and Hyde County government access television channels and via the web.

October 30, 2008
NPS Beach Access Report for October 30 2008
With only two remaining sea turtle nests on National Seashore beaches, and neither affect ORV access, the last week of October marks the end of the weekly Beach Access Report of the 2008 season. The Report will resume in April 2009. As of October 30th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 111 nests have hatched or been removed. 

October 30, 2008
Public Comment Period Opens For Review Of Environmental Assessment For The Relocation Of Bodie Island U.S. Coast Guard Station Complex
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS) will seek public comments on the Environmental Assessment for the proposed relocation of the Bodie Island U.S. Coast Guard Station Complex at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  The Complex is comprised of the 1879 U.S. Life-Saving Station, the 1916 Boat House, and the 1925 U.S. Coast Guard Station.  Cape Hatteras National Seashore proposes to relocate these three structures to a nearby site on Bodie Island to protect the structures from encroachment of the Atlantic Ocean and shoreline erosion.

October 23, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 23 2008
As of October 23rd, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 110 nests have hatched or been removed.  There are 3 nests left on Hatteras Island (none in ORV use areas).  No new turtle nest closures will be installed for the rest of the 2008 season.

October 22, 2008
National Park Service 2008 Visitor Survey Card Reports
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the results of annual visitor surveys for Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial are available on-line. 

October 16, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 16 2008
As of October 16th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 106 nests have hatched or been removed.  There are 6 nests left on Hatteras Island (1 in ORV use area), and 1 on Ocracoke Island (none in ORV use areas.)  No new turtle nests closures will be installed for the rest of the 2008 season.

October 09, 2008
FACILITY MANAGER SELECTED FOR THE OUTER BANKS GROUP
Superintendent Mike Murray is pleased to announce that Dennis McGinnis, a native of Manteo, was recently selected as the new Facility Manager for the National Park Service (NPS) Outer Banks Group.  The Outer Banks Group includes Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site in North Carolina.

October 09, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 9, 2008
As of September 24th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 105 nests have hatched or been removed.  There are 7 nests left on Hatteras Island (2 in ORV use areas), and 1 on Ocracoke Island (none in ORV use areas.) Park visitors will find eight remaining full beach turtle closures throughout the Park. 

October 02, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 2, 2008
As of September 24th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 104 nests have hatched or been removed.  There are 7 nests left on Hatteras Island (2 in ORV use areas), and 2 on Ocracoke Island (none in ORV use areas.)

October 01, 2008
NPS Outer Banks Group Now Accepts Presidential $1 Coins
In compliance with the Presidential $1 Coin Act, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group units are now able to accept and dispense the Presidential $1 Coins in their business operations. 

September 29, 2008
Update on the Negotiated Rulemaking Process
Superintendent Mike Murray announces several changes and decisions related to future meetings of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee.

September 25, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 25, 2008
As of September 24th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 90 nests have hatched or been removed.

September 19, 2008
Bodie Island Lighthouse Named in Top Three for JELD-WEN Restoration Initiative
Outer Banks Superintendent Mike Murray welcomed the news that Bodie Island Lighthouse has been selected as one of three finalists in this year’s JELD-WEN Reliable Lighthouse Restoration Initiative.  Based on public polling results, Bodie Island Lighthouse is one of the three nominees moving forward in the selection process.  The voting process narrowed the field of twelve lighthouse finalists down to three this week.

September 18, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 18 2008
The 2008 bird breeding season has concluded and the sea turtle nesting season is tapering off as well.  As of September 18th, NPS staff have documented 113 sea turtle nests on national seashore beaches during the 2008 season, of which, 81 nests have hatched or been removed.

September 15, 2008
NPS Implements ORV Night Driving Permits on September 16 and Reopens Seasonally Closed Villages Beaches to ORV Use
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced that Tuesday, September 16, 2008, two changes occur on Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches: 1)  The implementation of the Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) night beach driving permit begins and continues through November 15, 2008 for all beaches in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  A night driving permit, signed and dated by the driver of the vehicle, must be displayed in the windshield of the vehicle between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. 2)  Seasonally closed village beaches reopen to ORV use.

September 15, 2008
nps offers full moon tour of the cape hatteras lighthouse on September 15 2008
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of September 15.

September 15, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 11 2008
Beginning on September 15th, visitors will see an increase in full beach turtle closures throughout the Park.  Under the terms of the Consent Decree, all sea turtle nest that have reached their “hatch window” of day 50 will be protected with a full beach closure (dunes to surf) until that particular nest hatches.  Nests that reach 50 days of incubation after September 15th will also be protected by full beach closures

September 07, 2008
NPS Operations and Facilities Resume Normal Hours
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that on Sunday, September 7, 2008 by 1:00 p.m., all park facilities and areas of the Outer Banks Group have reopened to the public and normal operations and services have resumed.

September 06, 2008
Update on NPS Openings
As of 5:00 p.m. on Saturday afternoon, all areas in the national park units of the Outer Banks Group have been assessed for possible storm damage.  National Park Service staff completed on-the-ground assessments of the status of facilities and beaches to determine when normal operations can be restored. 

September 05, 2008
Outer Banks Group Update
All park visitor centers in Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, and Wright Brothers National Memorial were closed by noon on Friday, 9/05/08, and will remain closed until further notice. 

September 04, 2008
NPS Visitor Centers Campgrounds and Beach Closures
The National Weather Service is predicting the effects of Tropical Storm Hanna will reach the Outer Banks Group units, Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial, by late Friday evening with storm conditions continuing through Saturday, September 6, 2008.

September 04, 2008
NPS Prepares for Impacts of Tropical Storm Hanna
In preparation of the possible effects of Tropical Storm Hanna, the National Park Service has taken preliminary steps that affect park operations and facilities and provide the following information to the visiting public and local communities.

September 03, 2008
NPS Releases Park Administrative History Document
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the release of the National Park Service publication, The Creation and Establishment of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina.

September 03, 2008
NPS ORV Negotiated Rulemaking Assessment Survey Available to the Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the Assessment Survey of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Off-Road Vehicle Negotiated Rulemaking Committee report has been released and is available to the public. 

August 29, 2008
NIGHT BEACH DRIVING PERMITS AVAILABLE
National Park Service Superintendent Mike Murray has announced that night beach driving permits will be required for off-road vehicle use on all Cape Hatteras National Seashore ocean beaches between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. from September 16 to November 15. 

August 29, 2008
NPS LIFEGUARD BEACH OPERATIONS AND CAPE POINT CAMPGROUND CLOSE FOR THE SEASON REDUCED CLIMBING HOURS FOR CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE
Cape Hatteras National Seashore lifeguard beach operations will close Monday, September 1st at 6:00 p.m. for the 2008 season.  In addition, the Cape Point campground closes on Monday, September 1st at 12 noon; however, Frisco and Oregon Inlet Campgrounds remain open until October 13th and Ocracoke Campground remains open until October 27th.

August 29, 2008
National Park Service Announces Fall Program Schedule and Visitor Center Hours
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group will offer a variety of free ranger-led programs this fall at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  Programs will begin on Tuesday, September 2 and run through Tuesday, September 30.  All programs are free.

August 29, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 28 2008
On August 26, 2008, the ocean shoreline of Bodie Island Spit, from Ramp 4 south for 2.1 miles to Oregon Inlet, reopened to ORV and pedestrian access.

August 27, 2008
Access Update for Bodie Island Spit
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Bodie Island Spit reopened to off-road vehicle (ORV) access.

August 21, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 21 2008
On August 18, 2008, the ocean shoreline of South Point on Ocracoke Island, from Ramp 72 south for 1.5 miles, reopened to ORV and pedestrian access.  The pre-nesting closure, established in late March of 2008 and includes the interior sections of the point, will remain in place and is posted accordingly.  ORV traffic is permitted from 6:00 am until 10:00 pm daily.  The nighttime prohibition on beach driving is still in effect throughout the Seashore from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am.

August 19, 2008
Beach access update for south point on ocracoke island
Deputy Superintendent Darrell Echols announced today the reopening of South Point on Ocracoke Island for off-road vehicle (ORV) access effective August 18, 2008.

August 15, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 14 2008
On August 14, 2008, south of Ramp 4 approximately 1.0 mile of additional ocean shoreline was opened for pedestrian access only on Bodie Island Spit.  Two American Oystercatcher chicks continue to forage along the shoreline and the area will remain closed to ORV traffic until both chicks are fully fledged.  In addition, 1.2 miles south of Ramp 27 and 0.5 of a mile north of Ramp 30 approximately 0.5 mile of ocean shoreline was opened for a pedestrian corridor through a resource protection area where three American Oystercatcher chicks remain.  The area will remain closed to ORV traffic until all chicks are fully fledged.  Both areas are posted.

August 08, 2008
NPS OFFERS FULL MOON TOUR OF THE CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE ON AUGUST 16
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of August 16.

August 07, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 7 2008
On August 6, 2008, approximately 0.8 of a mile west of Ramp 45 and 0.2 of a mile east of Ramp 45 reopened to off-road vehicle (ORV) and pedestrian access on Hatteras Island.  On Ocracoke Island, 1.1 miles of ocean shoreline reopened to ORV and pedestrian access but the discovery of a least tern chick with adults prevented reopening the entire point. 

August 07, 2008
AUGUST 7 2008 ACCESS UPDATE FOR SOUTH POINT ON OCRACOKE ISLAND AND RAMP 45 IN BUXTON
While in the process of reopening South Point on Ocracoke Island today, an unfledged least tern chick with adults was discovered approximately 1.5 miles south of Ramp 72, which forced the re-closure of a portion of the area. 

August 06, 2008
Access Update for South Point on Ocracoke Island
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that South Point on Ocracoke Island reopened to off-road vehicle (ORV) access effective August 5, 2008. 

August 01, 2008
NPS TO CLOSE LIFEGUARDED BEACH IN BUXTON
Cape Hatteras National Seashore life guarded beach in Buxton will close beginning Monday, August 04, 2008, due to the unexpected loss of seasonal staff.

August 01, 2008
Coast Guard Station Oregon Inlet Tour
This coming Monday, August 4 will be celebrated nationally as Coast Guard Day – the anniversary of the 1790 establishment of the Revenue Cutter Service, forbearer of today's USCG.

August 01, 2008
NCBBA Offers Reward for Apprehension of Deliberate Resource Closure Violations
In support of the National Park Service’s attempts to apprehend violators of park resource closures, Jim Keene, President of North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) announced today that his organization is offering a $1000.00 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any person/s involved in a deliberate act of vandalism in a resource protection area within the jurisdiction of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

July 31, 2008
ORV Access Mileage for July 31 2008
****All mileages are approximate****

July 31, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 31 2008
The East side of Cape Point reopened on July 29, 2008 to off-road vehicle (ORV) access.  The area is now open to ORV traffic from 6:00 am until 10:00 pm daily.  The nighttime prohibition on beach driving is still in effect throughout the Seashore from May 1 to November 15 from 10:00 pm until 6 am.  NPS is in the process of developing a permit to allow night driving between September 16 and November 15.

July 31, 2008
A Sixth Deliberate Violation of Resource Protection Area
On the morning of July 30, 2008, NPS turtle patrol observed all-terrain vehicle (ATV) tracks inside the posted bird closure located approximately 1.8 miles south of Ramp 23.  After entering the closure the unauthorized ATV had driven high on the beach through a least tern nesting area.

July 30, 2008
NPS Launches New ORV Information Brochure with Partners
In partnership with the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA), the Outer Banks Preservation Association (OBPA) and the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club, the National Park Service announced today the completion and distribution of a new off-road vehicle (ORV) brochure for the visiting public.

July 29, 2008
Access Update for the East Side of Cape Point
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the east side of Cape Point has reopened to off-road vehicle (ORV) access effective immediately.

July 28, 2008
A Deliberate Violation of Resource Protection Area for Least Tern Colony with Chicks and Nests
On 7/26/08 a closure violation occurred at the least tern colony north of Ramp 27.  The violation most likely occurred between 0200 (approximate last high tide) and 0800, when it was discovered by park staff. 

July 25, 2008
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE TEMPORARY FIRE BAN LIFTED
Superintendent Michael Murray announced today that Cape Hatteras National Seashore has lifted the park-wide open burning ban on all the beaches in Dare and Hyde counties.

July 25, 2008
Bodie Island Lighthouse Competes for Restoration Initiative
The National Park Service announced today the Bodie Island Lighthouse is competing for funding through the JELD-WEN Reliable Lighthouse Restoration Initiative.

July 24, 2008
ORV Access Mileage for July 24 2008
****  All mileages are approximate****

July 24, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 24 2008
Two areas of interest that reopened this week: Ramp 44 reopened on July 22 and there is ORV access south to the southern end of the “bypass” area.  South of that is open to pedestrian access to the end of Cape Point.  Hatteras Spit reopened on July 24 and there is ORV and pedestrian access south from the southern terminus of the Pole Road on the ocean shoreline, around the tip of the Spit to “the Rip” and along the sound shoreline.  The area is experiencing a high rate of shoreline erosion and will be monitored daily.  It is highly probable that at mid-tide, sections of the shoreline will be impassible and, therefore, it may become necessary to install a safety closure for ORVs.

July 24, 2008
National Park Service Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum and NOAA Partners Provide Unique Opportunity for Students
The National Park Service, in partnership with the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum and NOAA U.S.S. Monitor Marine Sanctuary, recently sponsored a week long Shipwreck Archaeological Workshop (SAW) in Hatteras, North Carolina for 8th – 12th grade students.

July 21, 2008
NPS Seining Program
National Park Service Ranger Matt Daniel (left)and North Carolina Coastal Federation Outreach Specialist Sara Hallas (second from left) teach Outer Banks visitors Gabriel and Jeffrey Ehrenberg of New Milford, CT about the wonders of the Pamlico Sound estuaries during a NPS seining program this past Wednesday.

July 21, 2008
ORV Access Mileage for July 17 2008
****  All mileages are approximate****

July 18, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 17 2008
*Bold, blue print = updated news. **Report resource protection area violations to: Dare Central Communications Center:  252-473-3444 Hyde County Dispatch:  252-928-3171 Ocracoke Sheriff Dept:  252-928-7301 During the remainder of July, August and September, park visitors will experience a shift in the resource protection areas as birds fledge and sea turtle nests approach their expected hatch dates.  As experienced in 2007 under the Interim Strategy, and again this season, some full beach closures will be implemented as turtle nest approach “day 50” (from the date when the nest was laid) in expectation of hatching.  Under the terms of the Consent Decree, beginning September 15, all sea turtle nests that have reached their hatch window at day 50 will result in full beach closures.

July 11, 2008
Junior Ranger Program
Sienna Nambo of Houston, Texas proudly displays a vest adorned with National Park Service Junior Ranger patches that she earned during her visits to various national park sites.

July 11, 2008
NPS Offers July Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of July 18.

July 11, 2008
ORV Access Mileage for July 10 2008
****  All mileages are approximate****

July 11, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 10 2008
Beginning this week, the ORV Access Mileage list will accompany the weekly Beach Access Report as a separate attached document.  This is an effort to provide a concise, simplified list of approximate ORV access, north and south of existing ramps.  In both reports, the mileages, distances and descriptions in both reports are APPROXIMATE and reflect the best information available at the time the weekly reports are prepared.  The marked boundaries found in the field are the actual, legal boundaries of the closed areas and supersede any information in this report.  Park visitors MUST pay close attention to and comply with resource protection area boundaries as found in the field.  All resource protection areas are clearly marked with carsonite posts, signs, string, wooden poles or other markers.

July 03, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 3 2008
The mileages, distances and descriptions in this report are approximate and reflect the best information available at the time the report is prepared.  The marked boundaries found in the field are the actual, legal boundaries of the closed areas and supersede any information in this report.  Park visitors MUST pay close attention to and comply with resource protection area boundaries as found in the field.  All resource protection areas are clearly marked with carsonite posts, signs, string, wooden poles or other markers. 

June 30, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report Update for June 27 2008
On Friday, June 27, 2008, a resource protection area 1.2 south of Ramp 55 was removed after no American Oystercatcher breeding activity had been observed in two weeks.

June 26, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 26 2008
News on the “water boundary” issue:  We frequently hear the question – “Can I walk in the water around a full beach closure to access those stretches of beach that are open beyond the closure (with restricted access)?”  According to the DOI Solicitor’s Office, from a legal point of view, the NPS jurisdictional boundary on the ocean shoreline, in most cases, is the mean low water mark.  However, “on the ground” in the field, when it is NOT low tide, it is not clear how the public, (or the rangers who enforce the regulations for that matter) can determine the exact location of mean low tide at that precise time.  For all practical purposes, unless otherwise posted*, passage by a resource closure is permitted if the closure is small enough in length for a person to see the opposite posted boundary (less than a half mile) and if one is able to walk at least knee deep in the low tide (surf) zone the entire distance and re-enter into an open area. 

June 26, 2008
Vandalism of Shorebird Closure Fencing
A new act of vandalism/trespass to posted shorebird protection areas has occurred at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, this time on Bodie Island Spit just north of Oregon Inlet.  On Sunday, June 22, 2008, Seashore staff discovered damaged fencing and off-road vehicle tire tracks that violated three resource protection areas that were in place south of Ramp 4 towards the inlet.

June 24, 2008
NPS Coquina Beach Lifeguards on Duty
Lifeguards are on duty at Coquina Beach (Nags Head), as well as Lighthouse Beach (Buxton) and Ocracoke Day Use Area from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week through Labor Day.

June 19, 2008
NPS TEMPORARY FIRE BAN ON SEASHORE BEACHES
Superintendent Michael Murray announced today that Cape Hatteras National Seashore will comply with the temporary fire ban on all open burning in Hyde County and unincorporated areas of Dare County.

June 19, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 19 2008
Comments on whether to streamline the Beach Access Report or “leave as is” were equally divided; 50 percent wanted it simplified showing only what is open and what is closed; 50 percent stated they wanted the report kept in its entirety to preserve the historical data of what opened and closed and when.  These completely different views are very indicative of the ORV issue at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  We’ll take your comments into consideration.  The format will stay the same this week.

June 17, 2008
MONUMENT TO OPEN FOLLOWING RESTORATION PROVIDED BY FIRST FLIGHT FOUNDATION
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the renovation of the monument at Wright Brothers National Memorial has been completed thanks to the outstanding efforts of the First Flight Foundation, a key partner of the National Park Service (NPS) at the National Memorial.

June 16, 2008
Base of Bodie Island and Ocracoke Lighthouses to Open for Viewing
As a special treat for Outer Banks visitors this summer, National Park Service Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray has announced that the bases of the Bodie Island Lighthouse and the Ocracoke Lighthouse will be open for public viewing.

June 16, 2008
NPS Take Me Fishing Program
Victoria Fan, of Dublin, Ohio, proudly displays her “prized” catch of a small Hogfish that she caught with the help of Ranger Brian Przystawski at a National Park Service interpretive fishing program this past Thursday

June 12, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 12 2008
With the availability of the Google Earth maps, we are considering streamlining the Beach Access Report next week to show only what areas are open and what areas are closed with the related mileages.  We would remove all the “history” and prenesting closure language out of the report.  If you feel strongly, either for or against this simplification of the Beach Access Report, please feel free to send a brief email to cyndy_holda@nps.gov stating your reasons.  We appreciate your comments. 

June 10, 2008
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS FOR REVIEW OF OCRACOKE ISLAND MULTI-USE TRAIL ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS) is seeking public comments on the Ocracoke Island Multi-Use Trail Environmental Assessment.  The NPS proposes to work cooperatively with North Carolina’s Department of Transportation to construct a paved, multi-use trail on Ocracoke Island within Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

June 10, 2008
NPS Offers Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse June 18
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of June 18.

June 05, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 5 2008
The mileages, distances and descriptions in this report are approximate and reflect the best information available at the time the report is prepared.  The marked boundaries found in the field are the actual, legal boundaries of the closed areas and supersede any information in this report.  Park visitors MUST pay close attention to and comply with resource protection area boundaries as found in the field.  All resource protection areas are clearly marked with Carsonite posts, signs, string, wooden poles or other markers.  Entry into these protection areas is a violation of the Consent Decree and park regulations and may result in court charges

June 04, 2008
Cape Point Campground Opens for 2008 Season
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Cape Point Campground will open Friday, June 6, 2008 for the season.  The opening of the campground had been delayed due to standing water and saturated ground conditions.

May 30, 2008
NPS and Outer Banks Visitor Bureau Feature Google Maps
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray and Outer Banks Visitor Bureau Managing Director Carolyn McCormick announce a new feature on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Visitor Bureau websites utilizing the popular Google Earth maps.  The new feature provides a glimpse of, and the most current beach access information for the National Seashore on Google Earth maps.

May 29, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 29 2008
The mileages, distances and descriptions in this report are approximate and reflect the best information available at the time the report is prepared.  The marked boundaries found in the field are the actual, legal boundaries of the closed areas and supersede any information in this report.  Park visitors MUST pay close attention to and comply with resource protection area boundaries as found in the field.  All resource protection areas are clearly marked with Carsonite posts, signs, string, wooden poles or other markers.  Entry into these protection areas is a violation of the Consent Decree and park regulations and may result in court charges.

May 29, 2008
ncbba supports seashore junior ranger program in 2008
North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) President Jim Keene announced at the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association annual meeting on May 24, 2008, a donation of $4,000 to support the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Junior Seashore Ranger Program.  Superintendent Mike Murray accepted the donation on behalf of the National Park Service (NPS).

May 29, 2008
2008 Memorial Day Weekend Summary
Memorial Day Weekend 2008 marked the first major holiday weekend of implementation of the court-ordered consent decree to protect nesting birds and sea turtles at Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

May 22, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 22 2008
****Google Earth maps are now available at www.nps.gov/caha**** Go to the park website and click on “Off-Road Vehicle Information - More….” link in the top middle of the page, click on “Current ORV Access Information (Reports and Maps),” click on “Current Interactive Beach Access Map using Google Earth.”  A free download of Google Earth is available for first time users or click on “current beach access map” link if your computer already has Google Earth installed.  The program allows you to zoom into any stretch of beach in the National Seashore to check the status of access and protection resource areas.  Refinement of maps and legends will continue.  The underlying Google Earth map imagery is dated (2004-2006) and may not always match the actual, current shoreline.  The National Park Service color-coded line overlays are based on recent/current GPS readings and reflect actual shoreline locations and access status.  In other words, the color coded lines (green, yellow, red) indicate the actual shoreline access status, even though in some cases it appears on the image that the line is located landward or seaward of the outdated base image of the shoreline.  (See disclaimer on the maps)  We will be working on current mapping with Google Earth and learning as we go.  The maps will be updated regularly and the date of the most recent update will be indicated.  A modified version of the weekly Beach Access Report will continue to be issued on Thursdays.  Your comments are appreciated!

May 22, 2008
Reminders for a Safe Memorial Day Weekend at the Seashore
In preparation for the upcoming busy holiday Memorial Day weekend, and with unprecedented closures and access changes at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) because of the court-ordered Consent Decree regarding nesting birds and turtles, the National Park Service is anticipating that some very short-term, temporary changes to ORV beach access may be required to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to the Seashore.

May 20, 2008
Delayed Opening of Cape Point Campground for 2008 Season
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the delayed opening of Cape Point Campground for the 2008 season due to health and safety concerns as a result of standing water and saturated ground conditions. 

May 20, 2008
2008 NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LIFEGUARDED BEACHES
Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s lifeguarded beaches will open on May 24, 2008.  Lifeguards will be on duty at Coquina Beach (Nags Head), Lighthouse Beach (Buxton) and Ocracoke Day Use area from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  Due to a lack of certified candidates, the lifeguarded beach in Nags Head at Coquina Beach is currently guarded on weekends only.  Periodically the Coquina Beach area may be patrolled for hazardous conditions.  A full compliment of lifeguards is expected to be on duty by early June.

May 19, 2008
NPS Adopts New Beach Fire Regulation for National Seashore Beaches
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today changes to Cape Hatteras National Seashore’s beach fire regulations.  Effective immediately, beach fires are allowed between the hours of 6:00 am and 12: midnight, and prohibited between 12 midnight and 6:00 a.m., year round.

May 19, 2008
Second Act of Vandalism of Shorebird Closure Fencing
A second vandalism incident to a signed resource protection area was discovered by Cape Hatteras National Seashore staff on Friday, May 16th, 2008.  Park staff found over 1,500 feet of fence protecting an American Oystercatcher nest had been damaged.  This closure area is located on the ocean side of Hatteras Island, about .8 of a mile north of Buxton in a pedestrian use only zone.

May 16, 2008
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE PROGRAMS TO START ON MAY 23 2008
National Park Service summer programming at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore will start on Friday, May 23, 2008.  A wide variety of programs will be offered daily through Labor Day.  Also on May 23, the visitor centers at those three parks will begin summer hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

May 16, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 15 2008
A strong Mother’s Day storm brought high winds and strong surf conditions to the Outer Banks on Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday of this week.  Portions of beaches are still experiencing heavy surf conditions and many areas may be impassible at high tide.  Visitors may find ramps and interdunal routes with standing water on them and should exercise caution while traveling in the park paying close attention to tides changes. 

May 15, 2008
NPS Implements Seasonal ORV Closures on May 15
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that the annual seasonal closures of village beaches to off-road vehicle (ORV) use within the National Seashore will go into affect on Thursday, May 15, 2008.  The ORV closures are established in village beach areas that receive heavy pedestrian use, including areas adjacent to Coquina Beach and the villages of Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands.  “These closures provide for the safety of all beach users and minimize user conflicts in congested areas during the busy summer season,” said Superintendent Murray. 

May 14, 2008
NPS OFFERS FULL MOON TOUR OF THE CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE ON MAY 19 2008
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of May 19.

May 11, 2008
Vandalism of Resource Protection Closure Signs Results in Expansion of Buffer
Vandalism of symbolic fencing marking a shorebird closure in the South Beach area of Cape Hatteras National Seashore was discovered early Saturday morning.  As prescribed in the court ordered Consent Decree, this closure violation resulted in a mandatory expansion of the closure area by 50 meters to the west. 

May 09, 2008
John Gaskill Book Signing at Bodie Island
John Gaskill, son of the last lighthouse keeper at the Bodie Island Lighthouse will be signing his book, John Gaskill Remembers, at the Bodie Island Visitor Center on May 13 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

May 09, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 8, 2008
Certain portions of beaches may be impassible at high tide and some ramps and interdunal routes still have standing water on them.  Visitors should pay attention to tide changes and exercise caution while traveling the beaches and interdunal routes of the park.

May 05, 2008
NPS Announces First Major Closures under the Consent Decree
The following temporary closures of popular areas are being installed today in accordance with the requirements of the consent decree signed by U.S. District Court Judge Terrence W. Boyle.

May 01, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 1 2008
Due to numerous springtime northeast strong winds and heavy surf and tide conditions, certain portions of beaches may be impassible at high tide and some ramps and interdunal routes have standing water on them.  Visitors should pay attention to tide changes and exercise caution while traveling the beaches and interdunal routes of the park. 

May 01, 2008
Nighttime Driving Prohibited on Cape Hatteras National Seashore Beaches
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that, under the Consent Decree signed on April 30, 2008 by U.S. District Court Judge Terrence Boyle, a new seasonal restriction on nighttime beach driving will go into effect immediately on the beaches of Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  Beginning May 1, 2008, all Seashore beaches are closed to off-road vehicles (ORVs) between the hours of 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

May 01, 2008
Agreement Reached to Preserve Wildlife and Recreation Opportunities on Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Washington, DC – The National Park Service (NPS) announced today that a settlement has been reached that will protect nesting areas for Piping Plovers and other species and allow recreational opportunities for park visitors.

May 01, 2008
2008 National Park Service Spring Program Schedule
Beginning May 4, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will be providing scheduled public programs at Wright Brothers National Memorial and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site.  Spring programs at Cape Hatteras National Seashore will begin May 11.  The spring program schedules will run through May 22.

April 29, 2008
NPS Announces Additional Training for Beach Ambassador Program
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today an additional training date for the 2008 summer season “Beach Ambassador” program.  The park is recruiting volunteers from the surrounding communities of Dare County.

April 28, 2008
Travel Channel Presents Segment on Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
The Outer Banks Group announced today the Travel Channel will premier an episode on the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse.  The new back-to-back, half-hour episodes on Wednesday, April 30, 2008 at 9:00 and 9:30 pm (ET/PT) of John Ratzenberger’s Made in America series will include segments on Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, scenes of U.S. Coast Guardsmen changing the lens for aid to navigation, and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum which displays the remaining original pieces of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse lens.

April 25, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 24 2008
Due to numerous springtime northeaster with high winds, heavy surf and tide conditions, certain portions of beaches may be impassible at high tide and some ramps and interdunal routes that have standing water on them.  Visitors should pay attention to tide changes and exercise caution while traveling the beaches and interdunal routes of the park. 

April 23, 2008
NPS Salutes Outer Banks Group Volunteers
April 27 – May 3 is National Volunteer Week The National Park Service Outer Banks Group recently honored its volunteers from Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.  Within these three parks, over 148 people donated 22,549 hours this past year. 

April 22, 2008
NPS STUDENT EMPLOYEE MAKING A DIFFERENCE
Summer student positions are still available at the Outer Banks national park sites; call (252) 473-2111, x164 for more information.

April 22, 2008
Be A National Park Service Junior Ranger
Celebrate National Junior Ranger Day – April 26, 2008 Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray invites children throughout the Outer Banks to take part in National Junior Ranger Day at their local national park sites on Saturday, April 26, 2008.  “Becoming a Junior Ranger is a fun way for children to explore and learn more about the National Parks and how they can enjoy and help protect these important sites,” stated Murray. 

April 21, 2008
NPS Announces Beach Ambassador Program
Superintendent Mike Murray announced 2008 training dates are set for the summer season “Beach Ambassador” program. The program’s goal is to increase preventative lifesaving efforts through educational materials and personal contacts with the visiting public to Cape Hatteras National Seashore and village beaches.  The program will educate and inform the public of potential hazards associated with beach recreation, in particular rip currents, along with beach and soundside water safety, surf and storm conditions. 

April 18, 2008
Celebrate National Park Week National Park Week is April 19-27 2008
During this year’s National Park Week, April 19-27, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group invites the public to experience their national parks across the country, and those here on the Outer Banks; Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

April 17, 2008
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 17 2008
During the week of April 13, the Outer Banks have experienced yet another springtime northeaster with high winds, heavy surf and tide conditions.  Certain portions of beaches may be impassible at high tide.  Visitors should pay attention to tide changes and exercise caution while traveling the beaches of the park.  The park is operating under the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy which we expect to be modified when the settlement of the lawsuit is finalized by the Court.  As with last year’s Interim Strategy, the visiting public can expect on-going adjustment modifications of closures as the season progresses. 

April 17, 2008
Replica of Silver Life Saving Medal Presented to Descendants of Urias Blount Williams
The Outer Banks of North Carolina is more than vast stretches of water and sand; it is also a land of dramatic history and rich local lore that make for spectacular stories of shipwrecks, piracy and momentous life saving rescues.  One of those tales involves the rescue of all crew members from the shipwrecked German Steamer Brewster on November 29, 1909.

April 17, 2008
2008 National Park Service Student Summer Jobs Available
Full and part-time paid park-related student/intern jobs are now available for summer 2008 with the National Park Service Outer Banks Group; Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial and Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

April 09, 2008
Know Your Park Coastal Geologist Dr Stanley Riggs to Speak in Rodanthe
Continuing the second season of the Know Your Park citizen science education program series, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group is partnering with the Rodanthe-Waves-Salvo Civic Association (RWSCA) to host a presentation by North Carolina geologist, Dr. Stanley Riggs.  Dr. Riggs will speak at the RWSCA Community Building in Rodanthe, NC on April 15 at 7 p.m.  The topic will be “Climate Change and the North Carolina Coastal System – Past, Present and Future”.   “This is an important and relevant topic for all living on our barrier islands”, announced park superintendent Mike Murray.  “We are pleased to work with RWSCA in providing this program.  I hope students as well as adults will take advantage of this renowned speaker coming to our communities.”

March 25, 2008
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 2008 Climbing Season Announced April 18 2008 through October 13 2008
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will open to the public for climbing from April 18 through Columbus Day, October 13, 2008.  Climbing fees for the Lighthouse will be $7 per adult, and $3.50 for children under 12 and senior citizens.

March 21, 2008
Park to Establish Pre-nesting Areas for 2008 Breeding Season
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that National Park Service (NPS) staff will begin establishing pre-nesting areas for piping plovers at Cape Hatteras National Seashore beginning the week of March 24th in accordance with the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy.

February 14, 2008
Junior Ranger Essay Contest Announced Winner to Receive Family Vacation and Other Prizes
(Washington, DC) – The winner of this year’s 2008 Junior Ranger essay contest will receive an all expense paid family vacation to one of the country’s most remarkable national parks and a starring role in an electronic field trip seen by millions of school children across the country.

February 12, 2008
NPS Annual Threatened and Endangered Species Reports Available to Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) 2007 Annual Reports for Threatened and Endangered Species have been released and are available to the public.

February 11, 2008
NPS  ORV Negotiated Rulemaking Committee Member Contact Information Available
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the official public contact list for members of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV Planning Advisory Committee for Negotiated Rulemaking is available online

February 08, 2008
Cape Hatteras National Seashore 2008 Campgrounds Season Opening Date Changed to the First Friday in April
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Oregon Inlet, Frisco, and Ocracoke Campgrounds will open to the public on Friday, April 4, 2008.  Oregon Inlet and Frisco Campgrounds will remain open through Columbus Day, October 13, 2008.  The Ocracoke Island Campground is on a reservation system and will remain open through October 27, 2008.  Cape Point Campground in Buxton on Hatteras Island will open Friday, May 23, 2008 for Memorial weekend through September 1, 2008 - Labor Day Weekend.

February 06, 2008
DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT SELECTED FOR THE OUTER BANKS GROUP
Superintendent Mike Murray is pleased to announce that Darrell Lee Echols was recently selected as the new Deputy Superintendent for the National Park Service (NPS) Outer Banks Group.  The Outer Banks Group includes Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Fort Raleigh National Historic Site in North Carolina.

February 06, 2008
Know Your Park- William McLellan to Speak on NC Whales - Presentations to be held on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands
As part of the Know Your Park citizen science program series, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will host two presentations on Whales of North Carolina by William McLellan, marine mammal biologist/research associate at the University of North Carolina in Wilmington.

January 24, 2008
KNOW YOUR PARK PRESENTATIONS JANUARY 29 and 30  OCRACOKE AND BUXTON
now Your Park: Dr. Steve Ross to Speak on Deep Ocean Habitats - Presentations to be held on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands As part of the Know Your Park citizen science program series, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will host two presentations on Revealing the Deep – Exploring North Carolina’s Deep Ocean Habitats by marine biologist Dr. Steve Ross. 

January 10, 2008
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Availability of ORV Preliminary Alternative Options Workbook as a Word Document and Extension of Deadline for Comments
On December 21, 2007, NPS announced it was preparing a workbook describing a variety of off-road vehicle (ORV) management elements and options to facilitate public comment on preliminary alternatives for the Seashore’s ORV Management Plan/ environmental impact statement.  The workbook has been posted on the NPS PEPC website, http://parkplanning.nps.gov/caha under the ORV Management Plan/EIS project and can be downloaded and completed electronically or printed and submitted in hard copy.  The workbook alternative options are not intended to be all inclusive, nor necessarily always compatible or mutually exclusive.  Multiple compatible elements can be considered in combination later to develop a diverse range of management alternatives for evaluation in the Draft EIS.

January 02, 2008
Know Your Park  Dr Steve Ross to Speak on Deep Ocean Habitats Presentations to be held on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands
Continuing the second season of the Know Your Park community education program series, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will host two presentations on Revealing the Deep – Exploring North Carolina’s Deep Ocean Habitats by marine biologist Dr. Steve Ross. 

December 21, 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Schedule of Public Information Meetings on Preliminary Alternative Options for the Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement
Superintendent Mike Murray announces the following public meeting schedule to provide information and solicit public input on preliminary alternative options for the ORV Management Plan / EIS for Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  The Plan/EIS will guide the management of ORV use at America’s first national seashore for the next 10 to 15 years.  Because the Plan/EIS will analyze many complex ecological and social issues, public participation is encouraged and needed. 

November 30, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 29 2007
Weekly Up-date: Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.  The sea turtle nesting season has ended for 2007.  The end of November marks the end of the weekly 2007 Beach Access Reports as well.  The Reports will resume in May 2008.  We appreciate your interest, your comments, and your input over the past seven months.  Enjoy the solitude, the “wildness” and great fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities the park’s winter beaches offer to all!

November 20, 2007
Know Your Park  Dr Randy Daniel to Speak on Archaeology and Ancient Cultures in the NC Coastal Plain  Presentations to be held on Roanoke and Hatteras Islands
To begin the second season of the Know Your Parkcommunity education program series, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will host two presentations on Archaeology and Ancient Cultures in the North Carolina Coastal Plain by anthropologist Dr. Randy Daniel. 

November 19, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 15 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.    Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.  The North Carolina Beach Buggy Association members, park staff and volunteers are conducting the annual fall Operation Beach Respect clean-up on Saturday, November 17, 2007.  “Volunteer” a little of your time and help clean-up the beaches while enjoying the great outdoors this weekend!

November 08, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 8 2007
Weekly Up-date: Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.    Some areas may still experience closures due to impacts from Hurricane Noel’s offshore passing and visitors may find narrow beach conditions that are temporarily unsafe for ORV use.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times. ** Blue text = updated news.

November 01, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 1 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

October 25, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 25 2007
Weekly Up-date: Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

October 25, 2007
NPS Hosts Employment Job Fairs the First Week of November
Superintendent Mike Murray is pleased to announce the Outer Banks Group and National Park Service staff, will host two job fairs for 2008 summer temporary seasonal positions.  The first one will be held in Manteo at the College of the Albemarle Roanoke Island Campus (“old Middle School”) on Thursday, November 1, 2007, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm.  The second job fair will be held in Buxton at the Fessenden Center on Saturday, November 3, 2007 from noon to 4:00 pm.

October 25, 2007
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE TEMPORARY FIRE BAN
Superintendent Michael Murray announced today that Cape Hatteras National Seashore will comply with the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources' statewide ban on all open burning.  All beach fires are temporarily banned from the beaches of the Seashore.  Campground fires which are contained inside grills are permitted.

October 17, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 17 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

October 11, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 11 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

October 11, 2007
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS FOR OCRACOKE ISLAND MULTI-USE TRAIL AND PARKING LOT ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS) will seek public comments on the proposed development of a paved, multi-use trail and a parking lot on Ocracoke Island.

October 11, 2007
National Park Service ORV Management Plan Process
The third collaborative workshop for ORV Management Plan proposed Negotiated Rulemaking participants will be held Monday and Tuesday, October 22 – 23, 2007, at the Town of Nags Head Fire Hall in Nags Head, North Carolina.

October 04, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 4 2007
Weekly Up-date: Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches are open under winter seasonal beach conditions for off-road vehicles (ORV) access as described below.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use, and visitors should expect to see continued resource protection areas for sea turtle nests.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times. ** Blue text = updated news.

October 03, 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Long-Range Interpretive Plan Available
With the help of partner organizations, the National Park Service has completed a Long-Range Interpretive Plan for Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  “Interpretive and educational services are an important component of the experience that the National Park Service provides to park visitors and our local communities,” stated Mike Murray, Superintendent, Outer Banks Group.  “The Cape Hatteras National Seashore Long-Range Interpretive Plan offers a vision for the future of interpretation at the Seashore.”

September 27, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 27 2007
Beach Access is open as described below.  The Park operates and manages access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

September 24, 2007
FULL MOON TOUR OF CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE OFFERED BY NPS
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of Wednesday, September 26.

September 21, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 20 2007
The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

September 14, 2007
NPS REOPENS SEASONALLY CLOSED VILLAGE BEACHES TO ORV USE
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announces that on Sunday, September 16, 2007, Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches that have been seasonally closed to off-road vehicle (ORV) use in front of Hatteras Island villages will re-open.  Some areas may still experience closures where the beaches are too narrow and unsafe for ORV use, and visitors should expect to see continued resource protection areas for sea turtle nests. 

September 14, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 14 2007
The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

September 10, 2007
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE SITES REOPENED
Following the uneventful passage of Tropical Storm Gabrielle, National Park Service facilities reopened for normal operations today.  Three National Park Service Campgrounds, Ocracoke, Frisco and Oregon Inlet, reopened at noon on Monday, September 10, 2007 for business as usual.  Cape Point Campground is closed for the season.  In addition, many commercial campgrounds in the Outer Banks area remain open.

September 09, 2007
OUTER BANKS GROUP VISITOR CENTERS CLOSE FOR TROPICAL STORM GABRIELLE
As Tropical Storm Gabrielle approaches the Outer Banks of North Carolina, Superintendent Mike Murray announced that all Outer Banks Group visitor centers will be closed today due to impending weather impacts from the storm.  The grounds at Wright Brothers National Memorial remain open, as weather permits; however, the Visitor Center will be closed.  The Fort Raleigh National Historic Site Visitor Center closes at noon today.

September 08, 2007
OUTER BANKS GROUP CAMPGROUNDS CLOSE FOR SUBTROPICAL STORM GABRIELLE
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that all National Park Service campgrounds in Cape Hatteras National Seashore will be temporarily closed beginning 5:00 pm today, Saturday, September 8, 2007, due to impending weather impacts from subtropical storm Gabrie

September 06, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 6 2007
Weekly Up-date: The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.  Pets must be on at least a 6 foot leash at all times.

August 31, 2007
Viewing Hours Extended for Base of Bodie Island Lighthouse
The public will continue to have the opportunity to walk inside the base of the Bodie Island Lighthouse after Labor Day.  Although the tower is not open for climbing, the base will be open Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. through Oct 8, 2007. 

August 30, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 30 2007
The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.  Knowledge of tidal changes and caution should be exercised while traveling the beaches of the park.

August 29, 2007
NPS Visitor Facilities Go To Fall Winter Spring Hours
Starting Tuesday, September 4, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group visitor centers will be open on the fall/winter/spring hour schedule of 9 a.m. top 5 p.m. daily.  This includes the visitor centers at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and the Cape Hatteras National Seashore visitor centers at Bodie Island, Hatteras Island and Ocracoke Island.  These facilities are open year-round.

August 29, 2007
National Park Service Announces Fall Program Schedule
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group will offer a variety of free ranger-led programs this fall season.  At Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial, and on Bodie and Hatteras Islands at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, programs will begin on Tues., Sept. 4.  On Ocracoke Island at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, programs start on Mon., Sept. 10.  The fall program schedule will run through Columbus Day, Mon. Oct. 8.  All programs are free.

August 24, 2007
NPS Follows NC Statewide Ban on Open Fires for National Seashore Beaches
Acting Superintendent Mark Hardgrove announced today that Cape Hatteras National Seashore will comply with the North Carolina Division of Forest Resources' statewide ban on all open burning.  All beach fires are temporarily banned from the beaches of the Seashore.  Campground fires which are contained inside grills are permitted.

August 23, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 23 2007
During the month of August, park visitors will experience a shift in the resource protection areas as birds fledge and sea turtle nests hatch.  The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is ope

August 21, 2007
NPS offers full moon tour of the cape hatteras lighthouse on August 28 2007
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of Tuesday, August 28.

August 16, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 16 2007
During the month of August, park visitors will experience a shift in the resource protection areas as birds fledge and sea turtle nests hatch.  The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.

August 09, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 9 2007
During the month of August, park visitors will experience a shift in the resource protection areas as birds fledge and sea turtle nests hatch.  The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.

August 08, 2007
Mark Hardgrove Named Virgin Islands National Park Superintendent
The National Park Service today announced that Mark Hardgrove has been selected as the new Superintendent of Virgin Islands National Park and Virgin Islands Coral Reef National Monument.  According to Southeast Regional Director Patricia Hooks, Hardgrove will assume his new responsibilities on September 2, 2007. 

August 03, 2007
NPS COMMENTS TO USFWS AND TO COURT ARE AVAILABLE
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) has posted two recent letters on the National Park Service (NPS) Planning, Environment and Public Comment system (PEPC) website.

August 02, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 2 2007
During the month of August, park visitors will experience a shift in the resource protection areas as birds fledge and sea turtle nests hatch.  The Park continues to operate and manage access under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.

July 27, 2007
Base of Bodie Island Lighthouse to Open for Viewing
Having recently completed an emergency stabilization project at the Bodie Island Lighthouse, the National Park Service will be opening the base of the structure for public viewing on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. beginning Tuesday, July 31.

July 26, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 26, 2007
The National Park Service continues to operate and manage access to Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.

July 25, 2007
NPS Offers Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on July 29th, 2007
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of Sunday, July 29.

July 19, 2007
Beach Access Report for July 19 2007
The National Park Service continues to operate and manage access to Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches under the Interim Strategy guidance.  Beach Access is open as described below.

July 18, 2007
NPS ANNOUNCES UPDATE ON BEACH ACCESS
Superintendent Mike Murray stated today that the National Park Service (NPS) is currently evaluating and considering how to respond to the recent Court Order that was issued by U.S. District Court Judge Terrance W. Boyle on Tuesday, July 17, 2007. 

July 16, 2007
National Park Service Issues Finding of No Significant Impact for Interim Strategy
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the approval of a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) for the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy.

July 16, 2007
NPS “Beach Ambassador” Program Final Training Date Scheduled
The final scheduled training date for the NPS pilot “Beach Ambassador” program is set for Saturday, July 21, 2007.  The program’s goal is to increase preventative lifesaving efforts through educational materials and personal contacts with the visiting public to Cape Hatteras National Seashore and village beaches.

July 15, 2007
ACCESS STATUS AT BODIE ISLAND SPIT
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced that effective Sunday,July 15, 2007, off-road vehicle (ORV) and pedestrian access is temporarily closed to the southern end of Bodie Island Spit to protect piping plover chicks that have recently hatched at a nest near the southeast corner of the spit. 

July 12, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 12, 2007
National Seashore beaches and inlets experience varying degrees of erosion and notable high tides.  Travel in many areas may be limited during high wind/tide conditions.

July 05, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 5, 2007
National Seashore beaches and inlets experience varying degrees of erosion and notable high tides.

July 02, 2007
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HIRES LIFEGUARDS FOR BEACH IN BUXTON July 2 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore recently hired lifeguards to fill vacant positions in Buxton ensuring that all three designated National Park Service beaches have lifeguards for the remainder of the 2007 summer season.

July 02, 2007
NPS and NCBBA Tackle Beach Litter
In cooperation with the National Park Service (NPS) the North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA), recently sponsored “Operation Beach Respect” on Cape Hatteras National Seashore beaches.

June 29, 2007
Federal Register Notice Published for Cape Hatteras Negotiated Rulemaking Committee
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that a Notice of Intent (NOI) has been published in the Federal Register on June 28, 2007 announcing the Secretary of the Interior’s intent to establish a Negotiated Rulemaking Advisory Committee to negotiate and develop special regulations (proposed rule) for management of off-road vehicles (ORV) at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore).

June 29, 2007
National Park Service Issues Fireworks Prohibition Reminder
The July 4th holiday is a time of festivity and the national parks are great places to celebrate our country’s independence …just leave the fireworks at home.

June 28, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 28, 2007
National Seashore beaches and inlets experience varying degrees of erosion and notable high tides.

June 25, 2007
NPS Offers Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse June 30, 2007
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering Full Moon Tours of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse the evening of Saturday, June 30.

June 21, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 20, 2007
The annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use were established on May 15, 2007.

June 19, 2007
Sea Turtle Nesting Season Begins with Rare Events
Every year, nesting female sea turtles come to lay their eggs on the Outer Banks which lie near the northern limit of the nesting range for loggerhead, green, and leatherback turtles.

June 19, 2007
Donations Support First Fully Accessible Beach Access Ramp in National Seashore
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray is pleased to announce the opening of the first fully accessible beach access boardwalk (ramp) in the national seashore at the Frisco Bathhouse in Frisco, North Carolina.

June 18, 2007
Volunteers Sought for the Bodie Island Lighthouse
Once the current stabilization project at the Bodie Island Lighthouse is completed later this summer, the National Park Service hopes to open the base of the structure for public viewing.

June 14, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 14, 2007
National Seashore beaches and inlets experience varying degrees of erosion and notable high tides.

June 14, 2007
NPS “Beach Ambassador” Program Additional Training Dates Scheduled
The next scheduled training dates for the new pilot “Beach Ambassador” program are set for the 2007 summer season.

June 07, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 7, 2007
The annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use were established on May 15, 2007.

June 07, 2007
National Park Service Summer Hours and Programs To Start June 10
National Park Service visitor centers at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday June 10 through Labor Day.

June 04, 2007
NCBBA Supports Seashore Junior Ranger Program
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray and North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) President Jim Keene today announced a North Carolina Beach Buggy Association donation of $4,000 to support the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Junior Seashore Ranger Program.

May 31, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 31, 2007
The annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use were established on May 15, 2007.

May 24, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 24, 2007
Weekly Up-date: The annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use were established on May 15, 2007.

May 24, 2007
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LIFEGUARDED BEACHES FOR THE 2007 SUMMER SEASON
Cape Hatteras National Seashore opens lifeguarded beaches on May 26, 2007.

May 17, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 17, 2007
The annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use were established on May 15, 2007.

May 11, 2007
NPS Implements Seasonal Beach Closures on May 15
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that the annual seasonal closures of village beaches to ORV use within the National Seashore will go into affect on Tuesday, May 15, 2007.

May 11, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 11, 2007
On May 10, 2007, prior to issuing the Beach Access Report, information was communicated that two piping plover nests were located inside the Cape Point pre-nesting area.

May 10, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 10, 2007
From Sunday, May 6 through Tuesday, May 8, the Outer Banks experienced a strong low pressure system with high winds of 50-60 mph and strong wave action on the coastline.

May 08, 2007
NPS “Beach Ambassador” Program Training Dates Announced
The training dates for the new pilot “Beach Ambassador” program have been set for the 2007 summer season.

May 04, 2007
National Park Service Spring Program Schedule Announced
Learn more about your National Parks while visiting the Outer Banks this spring!

May 03, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 3, 2007
Pre-nesting areas were established the week of March 26, 2007.

April 26, 2007
DOGS ON NATIONAL SEASHORE MUST BE LEASHED
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that there will be a focused effort this season to inform visitors of concerns over the number of dogs that are observed off leash at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, and the negative impact that unleashed dogs can have on the wildlife that rely on the seashore beaches for survival.

April 26, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 26, 2007
Pre-nesting areas were established the week of March 26, 2007.

April 23, 2007
NPS Launches “Beach Ambassador” Program
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the implementation of a new pilot “Beach Ambassador” program for the 2007 summer season.

April 23, 2007
Become a Junior Ranger!  National Junior Ranger Day is April 28
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Michael B. Murray invites children throughout the Outer Banks to take part in National Junior Ranger Day at their local National Park sites on Saturday, April 28, 2007.

April 20, 2007
Celebrate National Park Week!  National Park Week is April 22-28
During this year’s National Park Week, April 22-28, the National Park Service Outer Banks Group invites the pubic to experience their national parks across the country, and those here on the Outer Banks; Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

April 19, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 19, 2007
This report includes the established pre-nesting resource closures.

April 13, 2007
NPS Seeks Public Comment on Proposed 2008 Fee Changes
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the public comment period for proposed 2008 park fees for several park facilities is now open through May 15.

April 12, 2007
NPS Salutes Outer Banks Group Volunteers – April 15 - 21 is National Volunteer Week
The National Park Service Outer Banks Group recently honored its volunteers from Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.

April 06, 2007
National Park Service Beach Access Report for April 6, 2007
Spring is in the air!  Outer Banks birdlife, wildlife and fish abound!  This is the first Beach Access Report for the 2007 season.  This report includes the newly established pre-nesting closures, implemented during the week of March 26, 2007.

March 30, 2007
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse to Open April 20 – Annual Opening Date Changed to the Third Friday in April
National Park Service Outer Banks Group Superintendent, Michael B. Murray reminds the public that the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will open to the public for climbing from April 20 through Columbus Day, October 8, 2007.

March 29, 2007
Silver Lake Marina and Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Fee Schedules for 2007 Season
In April 2006 the National Park Service announced plans to increase fees in 2007 for several park facilities.  The new fees go into effect beginning April 1, 2007 for the Silver Lake Marina and the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 2007 season.

March 26, 2007
Cape Hatteras Seashore Campgrounds Open for 2007 Season
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Oregon Inlet, Frisco and Ocracoke Campgrounds will open Friday, April 6, 2007 for the season.

March 22, 2007
Park to Establish Pre-nesting Areas for 2007 Breeding Season
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that National Park Service (NPS) staff will begin establishing pre-nesting areas for piping plovers at Cape Hatteras National Seashore beginning March 26, 2007 in accordance with the Interim Protected Species Management Strategy.

February 15, 2007
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS FOR PROPOSED PREDATOR CONTROL PROGRAM
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS) will host a public scoping meeting on Wednesday, March 7, 2007 at the Hatteras Village Civic Center, Hatteras, North Carolina from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm to share information and seek public comments on the Park’s proposed predator management program.

February 13, 2007
NPS Threatened & Endangered Species Reports Available to Public
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the Cape Hatteras National Seashore (CAHA) 2006 Annual Reports for Threatened and Endangered Species have been released and are available to the public.

February 02, 2007
Know Your Park:  Dr. Stanley Riggs to Speak on Barrier Islands and Climate Change - Presentations to be held on Ocracoke and Hatteras Islands
For the third Know Your Park program of this season, the National Park Service will host two presentations by North Carolina geologist Dr. Stanley Riggs on “Climate Change and the North Carolina Coastal System – Past, Present and Future.”

January 25, 2007
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Announces Public Scoping Meeting Schedule for Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan/Environmental Impact Statement
On December 11, 2006, the National Park Service (NPS) published a Notice of Intent (NOI) to develop an ORV Management Plan/EIS (plan/EIS) for Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the Federal Register.  The plan/EIS will guide the management of America’s first national seashore for the next 15 to 20 years.

January 16, 2007
Department of the Interior Initiates New Interagency Passes
Outer Banks Group Begins Sales of the America the Beautiful – National Parks and Federal Recreation Land Pass.

January 11, 2007
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS FOR RELOCATION OF HISTORIC BODIE ISLAND STRUCTURES
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today the National Park Service (NPS) will host a public scoping meeting on Wednesday, January 31, 2007 at the Wright Brothers National Memorial, Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm to share information and seek public comments on the relocation of the Bodie Island Coast Guard and Lifesaving Stations.

January 11, 2007
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse 2007 Climbing Season Announced-Opening Date Changed to the Third Friday in April
National Park Service Outer Banks Group Superintendent, Michael B. Murray has announced that the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will open to the public for climbing from April 20, 2007 through Columbus Day, October 8, 2007.

January 10, 2007
Update on ORV Planning Process
Superintendent Mike Murray is providing the following updates related to the interim protected species management strategy/environmental assessment (EA), long-term ORV management plan/environmental impact statement (EIS), and the proposed negotiated rulemaking (RegNeg) process.

December 20, 2006
NPS Visitor Center Holiday Schedules
All National Park Service Visitor Centers within the Outer Banks Group will be closed for the Christmas Holiday on Monday, December 25, 2006.

December 18, 2006
RENOVATIONS FOR CAPE HATTERAS LIGHT STATION
The new year will bring a fresh look to the Cape Hatteras Light Station as renovation work to several structures, which comprise the Station complex, will soon be underway.  This is the first major work to be performed at the Station since its relocation in 1999.

November 30, 2006
NPS Reduces Maintenance Services at Several ORV Access Points for Winter Season
Effective December 1, 2006, the National Park Service will begin removal of the trash dumpsters and portable toilets at several ORV access ramps in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.  This will help conserve financial resources to provide visitor services during the busier summer months.

November 28, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 28, 2006
This beach access report is being distributed to update current information in Cape Hatteras National Seashore following the severe storm of November 22, 2006.

November 27, 2006
Know Your Park: Radio Scientist John S. Belrose to Speak on Reginald Fessenden’s Contributions to Voice Radio
“By his genius, distant lands converse and men sail unafraid upon the deep.” – spoken of Reginald Fessenden.

November 24, 2006
BEACH ACCESS RAMPS FLOODED BY PRE-THANKSGIVING DAY STORM
Although the storm has passed, and most beach access ramps in Cape Hatteras National Seashore are open for use as of Friday, November 24, a few remain flooded and closed until waters have receded enough to allow safe passage.

November 20, 2006
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Negotiated Rulemaking
Superintendent Mike Murray announced plans for Cape Hatteras National Seashore to host a two-day training workshop on “Participating in the Negotiated Rulemaking Process” scheduled for February 8 and 9, 2007.

November 16, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for November 16, 2006
Superintendent Mike Murray announced the 2006 sea turtle nesting season is coming to a close in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

November 06, 2006
NPS Waives Entrance Fees to all Veterans on Veterans Day
The National Park Service (NPS) has announced a new policy effective this Veterans Day (November 11, 2006).

October 17, 2006
Biologist Alvin Braswell to Speak on Reptiles and Amphibians of the Outer Banks - National Park Service begins Know Your Park Presentation Series
Want to know what venomous snakes live on the Outer Banks, or what kind of tree frogs are barking near that outside door light, or how one special water snake has adapted to living in the salty marshes of Dare and Hyde counties?

October 11, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for October 11, 2006
Bodie Island District (North of Ramp 27)

October 04, 2006
NPS TO LOAN CAPE HATTERAS LIGHT PEDESTAL TO THE GRAVEYARD OF THE ATLANTIC MUSEUM
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that the National Park Service (NPS) will proceed with a project in partnership with the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum (Museum) to restore the pedestal and additional lens panels from the Cape Hatteras Light.

October 02, 2006
Sunset and Full Moon Tours Offered at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on October 7
With the “sun setting” on the 2006 climbing season at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the National Park Service will offer a grand finale series of evening tours on Saturday, October 7, 2006.

September 29, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 29, 2006
A RESOURCE PROTECTION AREA, approximately 350 feet in length, is located 0.96 miles north of Ramp 34 and will be effective on September 30, 2006.  This area of the beach is narrow and a turtle nest, expected to hatch in the next two weeks, is situated high on the beach at the edge of the dune line.

September 22, 2006
NPS Celebrates National Public Lands Day
Superintendent Mike Murray announced today that Saturday, September 30, 2006 the National Park Service Outer Banks Group will be celebrating National Public Lands Day.  Entrance fees at Wright Brothers National Memorial and user fees at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse are waived for that day.

September 18, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 18, 2006
This beach access report is being distributed to update current information on Hatteras Island District beach access.

September 15, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 15, 2006
This beach access report is being distributed to clarify which sections of beach will reopen or remained closed on September 16, 2006.

September 06, 2006
NPS OCRACOKE CAMPGROUND SEASON EXTENDED
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Superintendent Mike Murray announces that the season for the National Park Service campground on Ocracoke Island has been extended until October 30, 2006.

September 01, 2006
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE SITES REOPEN
Three National Park Service Campgrounds reopened at noon on Friday, September 01, 2006.  The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will reopen on Saturday, September 2, 2006.

September 01, 2006
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Closed on September 6 for Window Replacement Project
The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be closed for climbing on September 6 for one day only to complete the installation of the first of seven new cast ductile iron windows.

September 01, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for September 1, 2006
This is the final beach access report for the 2006 summer season.  Significant resource management activities related to protected species will be provided via press releases.

September 01, 2006
OUTER BANKS GROUP OPENINGS AND CLOSURES
Superintendent Mike Murray announced the reopening of three National Park Service Campgrounds today at noon.  The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is closed for repairs to a broken window and will reopen Saturday morning pending the success of those repairs.  Wright Brothers National Memorial is closed due to extensive flooding in the parking lot, minor leaks in the Visitor Center roof and the hanger building of the Pavilion.

August 31, 2006
NPS Offers September Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
As a special experience for park visitors and neighboring communities, the National Park Service continues the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Full Moon Tour again in September on Thursday, September 7, 2006.

August 31, 2006
Outer Banks NPS Visitor Centers’ Hours Adjusted for Fall Season
The Outer Banks Group of the National Park Service announces that the hours for the visitor centers at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore will be 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily for the fall season starting on Tuesday, September 5, 2006.  The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse hours will be 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily through October 9th.

August 31, 2006
NPS Campgrounds Closed for Storm Impacts
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced that all National Park Service campgrounds in Cape Hatteras National Seashore will be temporarily closed beginning at noon today, August 31, 2006, due to impending weather impacts from Tropical Storm Ernesto.

August 25, 2006
NPS Offers Sun Rise Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
As a very special experience for the visiting public and local communities, the National Park Service will be offering the first Sun Rise Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse on the morning of Thursday, August 31.

August 24, 2006
LOCAL ETHNOGRAPHY NOW AVAILABLE AT CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE
Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Eastern National, a cooperating association operating in more than 130 national parks which provides quality educational products and services to the visitors, proudly announces that An Ethnohistorical Description of the Eight Villages Adjoining Cape Hatteras National Seashore:  Interpretive Themes of History and Heritage is now available for purchase.

August 24, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 24, 2006
Numerous Piping Plovers migrating south along the Atlantic coast have been observed foraging on the beaches. During one beach survey, 69 Plovers were observed on South Ocracoke Island.

August 24, 2006
NPS Lifeguards Keep Seashore Beaches Safe
Water safety is a major concern on the Outer Banks.  Visitors to the miles of beautiful beaches may not be aware of potential dangers including strong wave action, rip currents, marine life, and shifting sands.

August 22, 2006
BIOLOGICAL OPINION AVAILABLE TO PUBLIC
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Raleigh Field Office, Raleigh. NC and the National Park Service, Cape Hatteras National Seashore (NPS) announced today that the biological opinion on the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Interim Protected Species Management Strategy has been completed.

August 17, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 17, 2006
Recent News: Numerous Piping Plovers migrating south along the Atlantic coast have been observed foraging on the beaches. In the course of one beach survey, 93 Piping Plovers were observed on South Ocracoke Island. This is the highest number of Plover ever observed in one specific location in the park. Colonial Waterbirds such as the Least Tern, Royal and Gull-billed Tern, and Black Skimmer are abundantly present on the Seashore.

August 17, 2006
America's Best Classroom Comes to the Outer Banks Group
The Outer Banks Group of the National Park Service is proud to announce the selection of Wright Brothers National Memorial as one of fourteen National Park Service sites to participate in the America’s Best Classroom program.

August 16, 2006
Whalebone Fire Burning in Cape Hatteras National Seashore
The 12-acre Whalebone Fire in South Nags Head was declared contained again today at noon by NPS officials.  Spot fires on Monday and Tuesday crossed the line and burned 4 additional acres.  The extremely dry conditions and strong breezes presented challenges to firefighters in controlling the fire and produced a large amount of smoke visible from miles away.

August 10, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 10, 2006
Numerous Piping Plovers migrating south along the Atlantic coast have been observed foraging on the beaches. During a one-day beach survey on 8-5-06, 123 Plovers were observed from Oregon Inlet to South Ocracoke Spit. Colonial Waterbirds such as the Least Tern, Royal and Gull-billed Tern, and Black Skimmer are abundantly present on the Seashore. This week 100 Sandwich Terns and one Black Tern were added to the survey report

August 10, 2006
Soundside Sleuths on the Seashore
The marshes and grass beds of Pamlico Sound provide a nursery ground for marine life and a safe haven for the creatures that live there.

August 07, 2006
Wright Painting on Loan at Memorial
Wright Brothers National Memorial is pleased to announce the loan of an original painting entitled Born of Dreams, Inspired by Freedom from Mr. Nick Nuzzi.  The painting, crafted by North Carolina artist Tim Bruce, depicts the Wright Brothers surrounded by images relating to their inspirational quest to fly.

August 03, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for August 3, 2006
Open House to Meet New Staff:  Community members are invited to attend an informal open house at the Fessenden Center in Buxton, on Tuesday, August 8, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm, to meet the new Hatteras Island District Ranger, John McCutcheon and the new Park Wildlife Biologist, Britta Muiznieks.

August 01, 2006
NPS HOLDS OPEN HOUSE ON AUGUST 8 FOR PUBLIC TO MEET NEW STAFF
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announces plans to conduct an informal Open House session Tuesday, August 8th from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm at the Fessenden Center on Hatteras Island.  This session is intended to provide an opportunity for community members to meet new staff members for the Seashore - Hatteras Island District Ranger, John McCutcheon, and Wildlife Biologist, Britta Muiznieks.

July 31, 2006
Help Protect Sea Turtles
Sea turtles have survived in the world’s oceans for millions of years.  However, all of the five species that occur in North Carolina waters are currently either threatened or endangered.  Every year, nesting female sea turtles come to lay their eggs on the Outer Banks which lie near the northern limit of the nesting range for loggerhead, green and leatherback turtles.

July 27, 2006
National Park Service and North Carolina State University Present the American Oystercatcher
Cape Hatteras National Seashore will be hosting Dr. Ted Simons and Mr. Shiloh Schulte of North Carolina State University for a presentation on a unique-looking visitor to our shores, the American oystercatcher.

July 27, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 27, 2006
Recent News: Access to South Point on Ocracoke Island reopened on a 24-hour basis today (July 27). The last piping plover chick that had been in the South Point area is presumed lost.

July 27, 2006
PUBLIC COMMENT PERIOD OPENS ON LENS PEDESTAL LOAN
A partnership between Cape Hatteras National Seashore and the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in Hatteras Village could result in the restoration of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse’s Fresnel lens pedestal and the reuniting of the lens system as it is known to exist today.

July 25, 2006
ACCESS UPDATE FOR SOUTH POINT OCRACOKE
South Point on Ocracoke Island remains closed today and tonight as National Park Service (NPS) personnel continue to survey during daylight hours for a piping plover chick that was last seen on Saturday, July 22, 2006.

July 25, 2006
ACCESS UPDATE AT SOUTH POINT OCRACOKE
Heavy rain swept through the South Point of Ocracoke on Sunday, July 23, 2006 complicating National Park Service (NPS) efforts to reopen off-road vehicle (ORV) access to South Point during daylight hours.

July 24, 2006
Unknown Shipwreck Laid to Rest
Cape Hatteras National Seashore recently partnered with the Graveyard of the Atlantic Museum in conducting an archaeological study of a shipwreck on Hatteras Island known only as the Ramp 55 Wreck.

July 24, 2006
CAPE HATTERAS NATIONAL SEASHORE PARTNERS WITH NOAA
Cape Hatteras National Seashore recently partnered with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to aid them in broadcasting video of their latest project on the Monitor National Marine Sanctuary.

July 21, 2006
ACCESS ADJUSTMENTS AT CAPE POINT
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced that effective Friday, July 21, 2006 the National Park Service (NPS) has discontinued the 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. night time closure of the Cape Point area that had been imposed on July 15 to protect two piping plover chicks.

July 20, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 20, 2006
Recent News: The two Piping Plover chicks at Cape Point remained near a dry ephemeral pool southwest of the nest site since about Sunday, 7-16-06. On 7-19-06 the brood remained at the same location, however only one chick was observed.

July 20, 2006
PARK SERVICE VOLUNTEER EARNS REGIONAL AWARD
Cape Hatteras National Seashore congratulates volunteer Beverly Henson on recently receiving the Volunteer of the Year award for the Southeast Region of the National Park Service.

July 17, 2006
FIRST FULL MOON TOUR OF THE CAPE HATTERAS LIGHTHOUSE A SUCCESS
For the first time ever, on July 11, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse in Cape Hatteras National Seashore was open in the evening for a special Full Moon Tour.

July 16, 2006
ACCESS ADJUSTMENT AT CAPE POINT
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced that effective Saturday, July 15, the National Park Service has initiated 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. night time closures of the Cape Point area to protect piping plover chicks that moved toward the eastern side of their resource closure on Saturday, July 15.

July 14, 2006
PIPING PLOVERS HATCH ON CAPE HATTERAS NATIONAL SEASHORE
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced the successful hatching of at least 4 piping plover chicks on Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

July 13, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 13, 2006
Recent News: The 4-egg Piping Plover nest on south Ocracoke Island began hatching on 7-12-06. Two Plover chicks were observed on 7-13-06 and the remaining two eggs have not yet hatched.

July 07, 2006
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE HIRES LIFEGUARDS FOR BEACH IN BUXTON
Cape Hatteras National Seashore recently hired lifeguards to fill vacant positions in Buxton, ensuring that all National Park Service beaches have lifeguards for the remainder of the 2006 summer season. Lifeguards are now on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., seven days a week through Labor Day on Ocracoke Island, in Buxton, and at Coquina Beach in Nags Head.

July 07, 2006
NPS Offers Full Moon Tour of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse
Lighthouse beacon sweeping across the dark ocean . . . full moon on the rise . . . such is the romance of the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse and the keepers who kept that beam of safety shining throughout the night.

July 06, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for July 6, 2006
Recent News: The three Piping Plover chicks at Cape Point have fledged. They were 35 days old when they were all observed in successful flight for prolonged distances. The 3-egg Piping Plover nest at Cape Point and a 3-egg Piping Plover nest on south Ocracoke Island are still in their incubation stage.

June 29, 2006
NPS Reopens Areas to the Public
Effective today, Cape Hatteras National Seashore is removing several resource protection closures that had occurred when protected species nested in the areas.

June 28, 2006
RIP CURRENTS CAN BE DEADLY
Rough surf conditions routinely produce life-threatening rip currents capable of overtaking even the strongest swimmers and surfers. The National Park Service offers the following information and tips to help Outer Banks visitors avoid this potentially deadly ocean hazard.

June 27, 2006
NPS Reopens Bodie Island Spit
Effective today, Cape Hatteras National Seashore has lifted the nighttime closure on Bodie Island Spit located 1 mile south of Ramp 4.

June 23, 2006
NPS Announces Beach Access Change at Bodie Island Spit
An American Oystercatcher chick hatched Friday afternoon at Bodie Island Spit near Oregon Inlet causing Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray to announce a beach access change.

June 22, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 22, 2006
Latest News: Of the three Piping Plover nests in the Cape Point/South Beach area, nest #1 has 3 chicks that are approximately 22 days old now and remain in the vicinity of the nest site. Nest #2 (4 eggs) hatched on or around June 13 just before the Alberto storm came through the area.

June 15, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 15, 2006
Latest News: The piping plover nest with 4 eggs at South Beach has hatched. The chicks are mobile and the exact location and status are unconfirmed as of 8:30 a.m. on June 15, 2006.

June 08, 2006
National Park Service Summer Programs To Start
National Park Service summer programming at Fort Raleigh National Historic Site, Wright Brothers National Memorial, and Cape Hatteras National Seashore will start on Sunday, June 11, 2006.

June 07, 2006
Hatching Chicks Influence Access Changes in Cape Hatteras National Seashore
Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced two beach access changes. Several bird nests are hatching within the boundaries of Cape Hatteras National Seashore, which direct the need to close areas to protect bird species.

June 07, 2006
NATIONAL PARK SERVICE LIFEGUARDED BEACHES
Cape Hatteras National Seashore opened lifeguarded beaches on May 27, 2006. Lifeguards are on duty from 9:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. seven days a week from Memorial Day through Labor Day on Ocracoke Island and in Nags Head at Coquina Beach.

June 02, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for June 2, 2006
Bodie Island District (Coquina Beach to Ramp 27) There are approximately 16.5 miles of ocean shoreline in the Bodie Island District (excluding Pea Island).

June 02, 2006
Piping Plover Chicks Hatch at Cape Point
Today Outer Banks Group Superintendent Mike Murray announced the successful hatching of piping plover chicks at Cape Point on Hatteras Island in Cape Hatteras National Seashore.

May 26, 2006
Cape Hatteras National Seashore Water Resource Assessment Available
The National Park Service Water Resource Division, Natural Resource Program Center, has released a report titled "Assessment of Coastal Water Resources and Watershed Conditions at Cape Hatteras National Seashore, North Carolina".

May 26, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 26, 2006
Bodie Island District (Coquina Beach to Ramp 27) There are approximately 16.5 miles of ocean shoreline in the Bodie Island District (excluding Pea Island).

May 17, 2006
Celebrating People and Places on the Outer Banks, NPS Releases Oral History Study
On May 20, 2006, Superintendent Mike Murray will present the results of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Oral History Project. The two-volume publication entitled, Ethnohistorical Description of the Eight Villages Adjoining Cape Hatteras National Seashore and Interpretive Themes of History and Heritage Study will be unveiled and presented at an open house at the Hatteras Village Weather Bureau.

May 17, 2006
NPS Announces Beach Access Changes
On Wednesday May 18th, Superintendent Mike Murray announced several upcoming changes to beach access areas on Hatteras Island.

May 12, 2006
National Park Service Beach Access Report for May 12, 2006
Bodie Island District (Coquina Beach to Ramp 27) · As of 05/12/06 there is one enclosure erected in the Bodie Island District. There is approximately 16.5 miles of ocean shoreline in the Bodie Island District (excluding Pea Island).

May 11, 2006
NPS Implements Seasonal Closure of Village Beaches to ORV Use
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that the traditional seasonal closure of some beach areas to off-road vehicle (ORV) use will go into effect on Monday, May 15, 2006.

May 08, 2006
National Park Service Repairs Ramp 27 Access
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that beginning May 9, 2006 the National Park Service will begin repairing the access area at Ramp 27.

May 05, 2006
Beach Access Report for May 5, 2006
Bodie Island District (Coquina Beach to Ramp 27) As of 04/27/06 there is one enclosure erected in the Bodie Island District. There is approximately 16.5 miles of ocean shoreline in the Bodie Island District (excluding Pea Island). Approximately 16.5 miles of beach are open for pedestrian access, 13.7 miles of beach are open for ORV and pedestrian access, and 2.8 miles of beach are closed for other concerns such as jurisdiction.

May 02, 2006
Access Adjustments at Cape Point – Access Remains Open
Superintendent Mike Murray announced that on Monday, May 1st, 2006, the National Park Service opened an off-road vehicle (ORV) and pedestrian by-pass route along the ocean shoreline between Ramp 44 and Cape Point, and closed a 0.2 mile section of shoreline west/south of Cape Point for resources protection.

May 01, 2006
Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Now Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Starting Monday, May 1, 2006 climbing hours for the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. daily with the last tour beginning at 4:40 p.m. Due to complications with staff hiring, the lighthouse had been operating on reduced hours since opening on April 14. The lighthouse will remain open through Columbus Day, Oct. 9.