Original Post:
Sometimes a good idea goes bad. I'm all for protecting endangered species but not at the expense of natural rights. I'm a common sense person and denying beach access to taxpayers doesn't make sense at all too me.There's more than one group whose is responsible for the present situation: Environmentalist, ignorant disrespectful people and politicians to name a few. Each group together has ruined it for the rest...including the birds they are trying to protect. Is there a better way to solve the issue? Education in my opinion goes a long way since we have to co-exist. Teach people about the bird. Show them what to look for on the beach so they do not disturb the nests. Educate people and give them responsibility. Education leads to respect. Closing off huge sections of our beaches for a few nesting plovers is over-kill. The fact that these areas are closed off before the plovers even get here makes me wonder what the agenda is...What do you think?
Updated 6-8
I have gotten alot of responses to this post in the past few weeks. Many people are angry and tired of this bird's hold over our beaches. The problem has reached a high point now that the summer season is here and we have to accept large swaths of beach being closed. Part of the frustration stems from the higher and higher prices we are forced to pay to enjoy our beaches while services shrink and restrictions increase. At Robert Moses you cannot drive on the beach unless you get there before 7AM or after 5PM. Further east at Smith Point only a small stretch of beach is open to trucks with 4X4. This year the Suffolk County 4X4 pass costs $95 while the State pass has gone up to $65. So just like the bankers got bailed out at our expense the state and county feel that we should pay for their shortfalls and bad decision making. Raise the prices cut services and give them less to use is the new creed. Please read this article for another perspective on this issue: http://www.3.longislandmp3.com/
In the meantime, remember that it is not the piping plovers fault and they shouldn't recieve the wrath of our anger. We need to band together and maybe even practice a little civil disobedience. Solidarity is a powerful weapon. Write letters to your local elected official. Point out the far more serious threats to the piping plover...ferel cats, natural predators such as foxes, racoons ect...Coincidentally most of those predators are only at the beaches because of the garbage we leave behind for them...but lets not tackle that issue...easier for them to close the beach and keep their heads in the sand!
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