Beach access ramps closing early

Beach access ramps closing early



From Staff
Publication Date: 04/24/09

Discovery of a leatherback sea turtle nest at Vilano Beach has prompted the nighttime closing of access ramps at Usina and Surfside, effective immediately.

The two north beach access ramps will close each day at 7:30 p.m.

The endangered leatherback nest was deposited outside the conservation area on Vilano Beach, north of the Surfside beach access ramp.

Leatherback nests rarely occur in St. Johns County, and this particular nest has been discovered before the official state of sea turtle season, which is May 1 through Oct. 31. As part of the County's Habitat Conservation Plan, all vehicles must be off the beach by 7:30 p.m. during sea turtle season.

All access ramps will close at 7:30 nightly beginning next weekend.

For information about nesting sea turtles or the Habitat Conservation Plan, go to www.sjcfl.us/HCP or call 209-3740.

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