NEWBURY – The town of Newbury has once again this year partnered with specialists from Mass Audubon to monitor piping plovers on Plum Island and assist in efforts to protect these threatened species.
Piping plovers are considered a threatened species by both the state and federal government, as fewer than 10,000 remain. Piping plovers are seen on the beach from April into mid-July or August, then fly south.
Common beach activities, such as walking with or without dogs, can disturb mating and endanger camouflaged nesting sites.
The town has shared delineations of public and private land with Mass Audubon staff, in an effort to ensure private property rights are protected. Mass Audubon may work on private property only with the permission of the landowner.
The town shares the following tips for residents and visitors of Plum Island: follow signage and respect fenced-in areas around habitats; keep dogs leashed on the beach at all time; do not leave or bury trash on the beach, as this attracts predators.
According to the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge website, the majority of the refuge beach closed to all users on April 1 to protect nesting piping plovers and other shorebirds. A small section of beach remains open at Lot 1. Thank you for respecting all signs, ropes, and gates while our most fragile visitors raise their families on our beach. Marsh-side access and all refuge trails remain open.
Residents and property owners with questions are asked to contact the Select Board’s Office at 978-465-0862, ext. 301.