The Crossover will remain closed to vehicle access through Memorial Day weekend due to a piping plover nest hatch. The first nest of the season hatched this morning and some of the chicks have already left the nest. Because they are very active and mobile and will be foraging on the tidal flats as well as in the fenced areas, vehicle restrictions are put in place to protect the chicks until they are old enough to fly, which can take up to 35 days. Once these chicks can fly, and all other shorebird nesting in the area is completed, the Crossover can reopen to vehicle access. The Natural Resources staff monitors shorebird activity daily and will reopen the Crossover as soon as allowed under the state and federal requirements that protect species listed under the Endangered Species Act. Check the Long Beach Information page for updates.
The Day Parking Area, Fishermen's Turnaround, Landing Lot and designated parking areas along Ryder Way will be available for parking. The beach is accessible for pedestrians except for areas closed to protect wetland resources areas and nesting habitat.
The next plover nest expected to hatch this season is located along Ryder Way near the Day Parking Area. It is expected to hatch any day and will impact vehicle access on Ryder Way. When it hatches, the Day Parking Area and areas beyond will close for vehicle access at 7:00pm, including for fishing access, rather than the usual 9:00pm. This area is allowed to remain open for vehicle access during the day after the chicks hatch because the Town participates in the Massachusetts Habitat Conservation Plan for Piping Plover. Another update will be posted when this nest hatches.