Mary Robinson - Free Response 2

I am from the Outer Banks, having grown up in Carova, the off-road area of Corolla. Carova has become a popular tourist destination, being known for the beach and abundant wildlife. As a permanent resident for 22 years, I have seen the influx of tourists visiting the area over the years. Tourism in the area has had a number of negative impacts on the local environment and community. One of the main issues that has arisen as a result of tourism in Carova is the degradation of natural habitats. The area is home to a number of protected species, including sea turtles and wild horses, which rely on the beaches and surrounding dunes for their survival. However, the increased human activity in the area has led to the destruction of nesting sites, habitat degradation, and disturbances to wildlife. People don’t know how to leave wildlife alone and respect the area. Tourists often go up to horses to try to feed them and people will walk all over the sand dunes, even though there are numerous signs which state these actions are prohibited. This has put pressure on these fragile ecosystems, which can take years or even decades to recover. In addition, the high number of visitors has led to overcrowding and an increase in litter, particularly on the beaches and in the ocean. This can have negative impacts on wildlife, as animals can become entangled in discarded fishing nets and other debris. Steps should be taken to minimize these impacts, such as limiting the number of visitors, more emphasis on responsible tourism practices, and enforcement of rules and regulations.