Committee says nesting plovers have extended beach closures as hay‑bale protections are repeatedly moved

The Beach Committee reported on July 9 that several shorebird nests have prompted extended closures at multiple beach access points and that repeated removal of protective hay bales is undermining efforts to protect chicks.

Chair said the committee’s counts show multiple pairs and several active nests across town beaches, and that the West access remains closed while re‑nesting activity continues. Chair summarized site‑level counts and the committee’s decision to keep barricades in place "until the brood of chicks ... are fledged." The Chair also noted the town’s dog ban remains in effect to limit disturbance.

Staff member warned that hay bales placed at pedestrian openings have been moved “multiple times,” forcing staff to replace them repeatedly. "If those birds come out, they'll shut the whole place down," the Staff member said, stressing the potential for a more restrictive response if vandalism continues. Committee members discussed the option of installing a more substantial barrier or a ground‑level gate that would only be opened for emergency responders.

The committee reviewed outreach and signage used to explain the protections: according to the Chair, new signs stating “please do not move hay bales” are posted on the barriers and staff have amplified the message through the town website and social media. Members also proposed volunteer monitoring and rotating staff coverage on busy holiday weekends to deter tampering.

The committee stopped short of approving a permanent locked gate but said the town will escalate physical measures if the hay‑bale removals continue. Staff will continue onsite monitoring and issue public notices; the committee will revisit enforcement options in a future meeting.