Traveler Cautions

Beware of Poison Ivy!
Walkers should be able to recognize poison ivy. The poison ivy plant has clusters of three shiny green leaves. In fall its leaves are bright red and its white berries may be mistaken for bayberry fruit. It occurs frequently as a climbing vine on trees and hedges, often spreading along the ground among low bushes and over sand dunes.

The resinous substance from all parts of the plant from roots to fruit can induce skin inflammation and irritation at any time of the year. Washing affected areas with strong soap as soon after exposure as possible can remove the resin and minimize injury to the skin.

Beware of Ticks!
Ticks can be a significant problem on the Vineyard. For more information associated with ticks and tick bite prevention visit: www.state.ma.us/dph/cdc/epii/lyme/lymehp.htm

Dunes and Erosion
The shoreline of Martha's Vineyard is subject to severe erosion, especially along the Atlantic south shore, where the recession rate may be over 10 feet per year. Coastal sand dunes play a critical role in lessening the impact of storms, slowing erosion, and providing habitat for nesting birds and invertebrates. Beach grasses are often planted to help stabilize dune areas. Foot and beach traffic destroy fragile beach plants. Please keep to the paths at all times!