July 2016 7
Keep Our Turtles Safe : Lights Out May - October
Loggerhead sea turtle nesting season is in full swing and well over 100 nests have been laid on Kiawah ’ s beaches ( at time of publication ). Female turtles will continue coming ashore to nest until August . Nests will begin hatching in July and finish by October .
During nesting season , it ’ s important that we do all we can to protect this threatened species from any further perils . To avoid unintentional harm to these beautiful creatures , follow these tips during nesting season :
• Flashlights should not be used on the beach at night during nesting season . Do not carry flashlights or play flashlight tag on the beach .
• Fill in large holes dug on the beach at the end of the day , as adults and hatchling sea turtles can become trapped in them .
• Observe sea turtles quietly from a distance - never disturb a nesting sea turtle or hatchlings .
• Do not shine lights on a sea turtle , including cell phones and flash photography .
• If your property is visible from the beach , turn out all exterior lights ( flood and deck ) from dusk to dawn .
• If any interior lights are visible from the beach or cast light on the beach , close blinds or drapes at 9 p . m . or turn them off .
Did you know KICA offers , at request only , the expertise of its irrigation technicians for basic backflow testing and repairs ?
Backflow prevention devices are used to protect potable water supplies from contamination or pollution due to backflow . Kiawah Island Utility requires residential water systems be tested every two years to ensure that they are working properly .
Please note that this is a service offered on-demand by KICA . To receive a backflow inspection , you must contact KICA and schedule the service in advance .
Cost of Services
• Basic Backflow Certification : $ 60
• KICA ' s technicians can make the repairs , when needed , for $ 37.50 per hour , plus the cost of materials . A one hour minimum charge applies ($ 37.50 ). After one hour , the cost is $ 18.75 per half hour or $ 37.50 per hour .
Request Backflow Certification Services Email memberservices @ kica . us or call 843-768-9194 to schedule an appointment . Services will be billed to your existing KICA member account and invoiced to you .
Help keep Kiawah special and our turtles safe by following these guidelines or sharing them with family , friends and vacation rental guests . Learn more about Kiawah ’ s Loggerhead population at wildlifeatkiawah . com .
Call KICA to Request Backflow System Inspections