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| Aerial photo credit FWS |
TITUSVILLE, FL – The Canaveral National Seashore is in the early stages of recovery following widespread damage from Hurricane Nicole. According to the National Park Service, boardwalks suffered heavy destruction, leaving large amounts of wooden debris scattered along the shoreline. While some walkways sustained only minor damage, others were completely destroyed.
Demolition of the most heavily damaged boardwalks began the week of December 12, 2022, with plans underway to convert certain areas into natural walking paths for future beach access.
Severe Impacts to Beaches and Dunes
Hurricane Nicole also left Playalinda Beach closed due to significant damage. The storm flattened protective dunes in several locations, while powerful storm surges deposited sand across roadways and parking lots. Entire stretches of the coastal ecosystem were reshaped, leaving the park to balance visitor access with critical environmental restoration.
Focus on Wildlife and Conservation
“The park is in the process of consulting with experts from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Geological Service, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and others to determine any impacts on wildlife and the best path forward for habitat conservation as we begin to clear the sand off the roadway and parking lots,” said Kristen Kneifl, Resource Management Specialist for Canaveral National Seashore.
The collaboration is expected to guide next steps in both infrastructure repair and long-term ecosystem protection.
Visitor Information
Park officials emphasize that all closures remain in effect and visitors must follow safety signage and official messaging during the recovery period.
For ongoing updates, follow the Canaveral National Seashore’s official Facebook page: facebook.com/CanaveralNatlSeashore
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| Photo by National Park Service |