National Park Service News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: DATE: February 1, 2012
CONTACT: Cyndy Holda, Public Affairs Specialist, 252-473-2111, ext.
148
Information Regarding Cape Hatteras National Seashore ORV Final Rule
The final special regulation (rule) for the management of off-road vehicle
(ORV) use at Cape Hatteras National Seashore (Seashore) was published in the Federal Register on January 23, 2012 and becomes effective on Wednesday, February 15, 2012. The rule designates ORV routes and authorizes ORV use at the Seashore in a manner that will protect and preserve the unique natural and cultural resources of this dynamic barrier ecosystem while permitting the use of vehicles on Seashore beaches and provide a variety of safe visitor experiences while minimizing conflicts among various users. Under National Park Service (NPS) general regulations, the operation of motor vehicles off of roads within areas of the National Park System is prohibited unless authorized by special regulation.
To provide more information about the rule and its requirements, the NPS has prepared a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) information sheet and a map showing designated ORV routes as well as pedestrian areas where ORVs are not authorized. The FAQ and map are now available on the Seashore’s
website located at: http://www.nps.gov/caha
When the rule becomes effective on February 15, 2012, an ORV permit will be required to operate a vehicle on the designated ORV routes at the Seashore.
Permits can be obtained beginning on February 15 at any of the three NPS ORV permit offices located at Coquina Beach, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center (Buxton), and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. These offices will be open year-round, seven days a week, except Christmas Day, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., with expanded hours on weekends and holidays during the summer season. The cost of an annual permit (valid for the calendar year) is $120. A 7-day ORV permit (valid from the date issued) will cost $50.
In order to provide the public with ample time to obtain a permit, there will be a transition period between February 15 and March 15 before the rule is fully implemented and enforced. During the transition period, the NPS will install new ORV route markers and information signs and begin implementation of the species management measures that were identified in the December 2010 Record of Decision for the Seashore’s Off-Road Vehicle Management Plan / Final Environmental Impact Statement. Visitor contacts during the transition will focus on informing the visiting public about the ORV permit and other beach driving requirements under the special regulation.
For more information, see the FAQ posted on-line at:
http://www.nps.gov/caha; or call 252-473-2111 ext. 148.
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