New rules at Anna Maria Island beach prevent digging huge holes in sand
Share this @internewscast.com

ANNA MARIA, Fla. (WFLA) — Manatee County has new rules at the beach. An ordinance is aimed at preventing people from digging huge holes in the sand.

Kristen Mazzarella with Anna Maria Island Turtle Watch says large holes present a danger to sea life.

“Adult turtles are at risk of falling into large holes, and when they do, they might struggle to climb out. They can end up on their backs with no way to flip back over, especially when they’re trying to lay eggs, which is a serious problem for them. As for the baby turtles heading to the ocean, they can fall into these same holes and are usually too tiny to escape,” explained Mazzarella.

The new rule bans digging holes deeper than one foot on the beach, prohibits the use of steel shovels, and mandates that any holes created should be filled afterwards.

Mark Taylor, a long-time beachgoer and Manatee County worker responsible for beach safety and cleanliness, notes that some individuals go overboard with their digging activities.

“I’m sure it’s difficult for you to imagine, but some of the holes are bigger than this tractor, deeper than this is high, as long as this whole combination rig,” said Taylor, while standing in front of a large John Deere tractor that he uses to clean the sand at the beach.

He says he’s seen it all when it comes to holes on the beach. “They dig monstrous holes, they come down at spring break with snow shovels and go crazy,” said Taylor.

The towns of Anna Maria, Holmes Beach, and Bradenton Beach are working on similar ordinances, based on the language of the county ordinance.

Taylor says signs will be placed at the beach to educate the public about the new rules.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Friday Night Football Frenzy: Unmissable Highlights and Predictions for 10/17/25

CENTRAL ILLINOIS (WCIA) – Here’s a roundup of the week eight high…

Trump Urges Supreme Court to Approve National Guard Deployment in Chicago

President Donald Trump has taken an urgent step by filing an emergency…

Blind Artist Defies Odds by Mastering Tattoo Artistry

POLAND, Ohio (WKBN) — Despite being legally blind, Nicole Morrone brings vibrant…

US Jury Slams BNP Paribas with $20M Verdict for Role in Sudanese Atrocities

A federal jury in New York has rendered a significant verdict against…

ETSU Honors History: Unveiling Monument to Pioneer African American Students

In the heart of Johnson City, Tennessee, East Tennessee State University (ETSU)…

Enjoy a Delightful Fall Weekend with Storm Team 3’s Forecast

SAVANNAH, Ga. () – Prepare to enjoy another delightful autumn day! With…

Local Legend Electrifies Audience at Sold-Out Temptations Concert

CHAMPAIGN, Ill. — A delightful surprise unfolded at the State Farm Center…

Shocking Incident: Florida McDonald’s Dispute Over Service Ends in Gunfire

A late-night dispute at a McDonald’s in Davenport, Florida, turned violent when…

UK Monarchy Sidelines Prince Andrew Amid Mounting Scandals: A Royal Shake-Up

It was the scandal that tipped the scales. Newly surfaced emails this…

Unveiling the Dark Secrets of the Murdaugh Family: Hulu’s New Series Explores Chilling Murders

The shocking events surrounding the deaths of the wife and son of…

NewsNation Collaborates with ICE for In-depth Coverage of Portland Operations

PORTLAND, Ore. – The city is at the forefront of witnessing the…

Urgent: Washington County, VA Residents Advised to Boil Water for Safety

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Va. (WJHL) — A significant waterline break has led the…