Town of Newbury, Mass Audubon Partner to Protect Piping Plovers on Plum Island

NEWBURY – The Town of Newbury has once again this year partnered with specialists from Mass Audubon to monitor piping plovers on Plum Island and assist in efforts to protect these threatened species.

Piping plovers are considered a threatened species by both the state and federal government, as fewer than 10,000 remain. Piping plovers are seen on the beach from April into mid-July or August, then fly south.

Common beach activities, such as walking with or without dogs, can disturb mating and endanger camouflaged nesting sites.

The Town has shared delineations of public and private land with Mass Audubon staff, in an effort to ensure private property rights are protected. Mass Audubon may work on private property only with the permission of the landowner.

The Town shares the following tips for residents and visitors of Plum Island:

• Follow signage and respect fenced-in areas around habitats
• Please keep all dogs leashed on the beach at all times
• Do not leave or bury trash on the beach, as this attracts predators

Residents and property owners with questions are asked to contact the Select Board’s Office at 978-465-0862, ext. 301.