Children Inspire Town to Install Signs

By Grace Allen

Never let it be said that even the smallest voices can’t make a big difference.

Earlier this summer, the Olesen children of Norfolk noticed a problem on a stretch of road near their home: turtles and amphibians were being struck by cars as they crossed Miller Street. Concerned for the animals’ safety, the children decided to act.

With guidance from their mother, the siblings wrote a letter to the Conservation Commission, explaining the dangers turtles face during mating season and asking the town to install turtle crossing signs in both directions. 

After receiving the letter, the Conservation Commission brought the request to Blair Crane, Norfolk’s Director of Public Works. 

“This was an unusual request for sure,” Crane said. “I believed that their request was genuine and important, not just for themselves but for the turtles and other motorists. They thoughtfully observed a need, took the time to write a letter, and even though there was a chance the answer could have been no, they knew it was worth starting the conversation. That’s a good reminder for us all.”

On August 13, the Olesen children—Ella, Olly, Kody, and Abby--were recognized at a Conservation Commission meeting.

“The community is very proud of these children,” said Conservation Commission Chairperson David Turi. “Their actions and concern for the environment are inspirational, and we hope they demonstrate to other children that they too can have a positive impact on animals and wildlife.”

Norfolk Animal Control Officer Hilary Cohen provided the children and other attendees at the meeting with turtle-themed sugar cookies she had baked for the occasion.

The children’s advocacy also caught the attention of Return to Wild, a Norfolk-based wildlife rehabilitation organization. Susan Siegel, founder, presented “Wildlife Champion” medals to the children for taking action in support of animals.

“We love creating wildlife stewards,” said Siegel.

Turtle crossings occur from mid-May to early July, the primary nesting season for turtle species, according to the Massachusetts Division of Fisheries & Wildlife. Roads bordered on both sides by ponds and wetlands are commonly used as crossing points. 

Turtle crossing signs remind drivers to reduce their speed in vulnerable zones, since turtles move slowly and often blend into their surroundings. The signs also raise community awareness about the presence of vulnerable species and the importance of coexisting with wildlife.

Crane confirmed that the DPW will be installing the signs in the coming days.

“I hope they serve as a reminder for motorists to slow for the turtles in this area for years to come,” he said.