Deep holes left on Hilton Head beaches a big problem
Turtle nesting season is here, and Hilton Head Island is again instituting measures to ensure hatchlings have a better chance of survival.
Unfortunately, a new menace has arisen that may adversely impact those measures.
I am referring to massive holes dug on the beach and left there. While no one would begrudge our younger visitors an opportunity to create castles with a plastic shovel and pail, some tourists arrive with the seeming intention of building a new Panama Canal. Using large, metal shovels, they dig holes which, in some cases, are 3 or more feet deep. Many are constructed past the high tide mark, and remain unaffected by ocean currents.
These holes are dangerous not only to turtle hatchlings, who might fall in and never escape, but also for those walking along the beach at night.
So great has this problem become across the Lowcountry that Kiawah Island has banned metal shovels on its beaches.
So, enjoy our beaches, but please fill in any holes you dig before you leave. The sea turtles will be eternally grateful. If you can’t or won’t do that, the town should consider a ban similar to Kiawah’s.
Too many people have worked too hard for too long to save these creatures to compromise their odds of survival in this fashion.
Kevin Kelso
Hilton Head Island
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