Working with the turtle rehab center at the NC Aquarium on Roanoke Island N.E.S.T. released two more turtles into the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday morning. Loggerheads this time--at the end of July it was a KempâåÛåªs Ridley.
This is a good way to lead into what's happening on the Outer Banks with the Federal Government shutdown.
As the release demonstrates, there is still a lot to do here on the Outer Banks--all state, county, municipal government and facilities . . . fully functioning and have not slowed down one bit.
However, all--and that means, all--Federal lands and facilities are closed. That includes, the Wright BrotherâåÛåªs Monument, Fort Raleigh, Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge (you can drive though it on SR12--but going to the beach is prohibited) and Cape Hatteras National Seashore. . . which includes the fishing and camping areas of Oregon Inlet.
ThatâåÛåªs the bad news. Now hereâåÛåªs the not-bad-at-all news: everything from South Nags Head to the Virginia line is open. ThatâåÛåªs about 45 miles of great surf fishing and that doesnâåÛåªt even include the piers.
Beach driving is permitted on Currituck County beaches, Kill Devil Hills and Nags Head. Be aware, though that Nags Head does require a permit.
And, Jockeys Ridge State Park in Nags Head is still open as are Nags Head Woods and Kitty Hawk Woods.
In other words, thereâåÛåªs still lots to do on the Outer Banks.
