Several new projects and programs are planned to protect and enhance Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Fort Raleigh National Historic Site and Wright Brothers National Memorial.
Outer Banks Forever, the nonprofit partner of the three national parks on the Outer Banks, announced the planned projects Tuesday, which include a kayak launch from Oregon Inlet, a new exhibit at the Wright Brothers National Memorial and webcams to view the park from anywhere.
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“Our national parks are an important part of our OBX community. We are proud to help our parks become more resilient and continue to meet the ever-changing needs of both locals and visitors.” Jessica Green, director of Outer Banks Forever, said in a statement.
The following projects were identified as priorities by the National Park Service and Outer Banks Forever’s Advisory Board:
- Views From Your Park: Webcam Installation. Outer Banks Visitor’s Bureau and Surfline will partner to install webcams at Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, Waterside Theater at Fort Raleigh and Wright Brothers National Memorial.
- Adopt A Nest. To be launched in the next few weeks, supporters will be able to adopt a sea turtle nest being tracked by park staff.
- Artist in Residence. The new program will support in the off season artists through two, four-week residencies.
- Aviation Trail Through Time. A series of new educational displays will be installed at Wright Brothers National Memorial on the walkway from the First Flight Boulder to the base of Big Kill Devil Hill.
- Kayak Launch at Oregon Inlet. The Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, accessible kayak launch at the Oregon Inlet Fishing Center will be built to provide a safe way fora ll to access the sound.
- Expanding Digital Learning at Wright Brothers National Memorial. Plans are to purchase equipment and technology resources to allow the park to create online video series, live in-classroom virtual field trips and build new digital partnerships with other aviation-focused parks.
- Pathways to Your National Parks. Plans for the multi-year project to build paved, multi-use paths in all three parks are still in development. Details for Phase 1 of the project will be a multi-use path in Buxton at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse will be announced this fall.
Each project will be implemented as funds are raised through donations, corporate sponsorships and grants.
In addition to these new projects, Outer Banks Forever will continue the Adopt a Pony program, which supports the care of the ponies on Ocracoke Island, as well as its involvement in the Love the Beach, Respect the Ocean campaign in conjunction with the National Park Service, Dare County and local EMS and lifesaving services.
Visit www.OBXforever.org or contact Jessica Green at 252-423-4545 or JessicaGreen@obxforever.org to become involved.
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