Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance Celebrates a Milestone in Beach Access
On March 14, the Outer Banks Preservation Association / Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance released a detailed statement honoring the January 20, 2017 milestone of implementing a new ORV Management Rule at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore Recreational Area (Seashore).
The well-researched press release outlined both the significance of the milestone itself, and also examined the events of the past that led to this better future.
The struggle began when lawsuits from several environmental organizations resulted in an aggressive effort to form an ORV rule for the Seashore in 2005.
“The Cape Hatteras Access Preservation Alliance (CHAPA), led by the Outer Banks Preservation Association (OBPA), North Carolina Beach Buggy Association (NCBBA) and the Cape Hatteras Anglers Club (CHAC), has fought for the past 17 years on behalf of the members of these organizations and for all beach access advocates to insure any rules or policies implemented would preserve and protect the natural resources and recreational opportunities within the Seashore without prohibiting the access formally promised to the public at the Seashore’s dedication in 1958 by the director of the NPS, Conrad Wirth,” the release reads.
“The first rule and associated wildlife management practices, which were implemented in February of 2012, had significant shortcomings. Congress recognized these shortcomings and passed the Act in December of 2014 requiring that they be addressed. The Act and many of the changes made by NPS to respond to the Act were influenced by recommendations made by CHAPA, its member organizations, representatives of local governments and the individuals who have advocated beach access throughout this process.”
“At this milestone, it is important to reflect on the changes made regarding pedestrian and ORV access to the Seashore as a result of the Act and to look forward to the future.”
The statement in full, which includes a comprehensive and detailed list of successes, as well as what’s in store for the future, can be read here: http://obpa-nc.org/NPS_Legislation/A_significant_milestone.pdf
