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Fecal Bacteria Shuts Down 3 NJ Beaches
11 Jul
Summary
- Three popular New Jersey beaches were shut down due to high fecal bacteria.
- Heavy rainfall from recent severe storms is suspected as the cause.
- Two of the three affected beaches have since reopened.
High levels of fecal bacteria have led to the closure of three popular beaches in New Jersey, impacting popular summer destinations. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) reported the presence of enterococcus, a bacteria that signals potential contamination from human or animal waste.
The closures affected beaches in Highlands, Sea Girt, and Belmar, all located in Monmouth County along the Jersey Shore. Experts pointed to heavy rainfall from severe storms experienced earlier in the week as the likely culprit. This storm runoff can overwhelm sewer systems and carry contaminants into the ocean and back bays.
As of the latest update, the beaches in Highlands and Sea Girt have been cleared and reopened after water samples confirmed that bacteria levels have returned to safe limits. The NJDEP requires multiple successful tests before allowing beaches to reopen, ensuring public safety.
While the situation has largely resolved with the reopening of most beaches, the incident highlights concerns about water quality after severe weather. Residents have expressed caution, with some choosing alternative activities like water parks over beach visits until conditions are deemed entirely safe.
