Part of Ocracoke Island reopened to driving

MANTEO, NC -- A popular fishing beach on Ocracoke Island has been reopened to off-road vehicles because officials say nesting season for some species is winding down.

The National Park Service announced Wednesday the reopening of South Point, which had been closed since spring to protect nests of endangered birds. A portion of the beach interior will remain closed.

Superintendent Mike Murray of Cape Hatteras National Seashore said night driving still is prohibited but vehicles can access the beach between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

Although the park service had some closures in place earlier this year, environmental groups sued to get more closures to protect endangered birds and turtles during nesting. Additional closures were detailed in an agreement that ended the lawsuit.

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