Chatham section of Nauset beach will stay closed to OSV access through July because of shorebird activity

CHATHAM – Chatham’s section of Nauset Beach, commonly known as North Beach, remains closed to Over Sand Vehicle travel because of ongoing nesting activity by state and federally-protected shorebirds.

This includes multiple broods of piping plovers and least terns. The nesting extends across much of the beachfront, with active plover nests and unfledged chicks still present. The town says both species are highly sensitive to disturbance during this critical breeding period. 

The town of Orleans has reopened vehicle access on its section of Nauset.

The earliest possible reopening of OSV routes in Chatham would likely be in early August. Staff from the Chatham Natural Resources Department is doing daily monitoring. 

“We appreciate the continued cooperation of OSV permit holders and beach visitors as we work to protect these vulnerable species,” they said.