Changes to beach public access rules opposed by environmentalists, sportsmen

The issue of just how public N.J. beaches are is heating up. Sign Up For Our Daily Newsletter Sign Up

The issue of just how public N.J. beaches are is heating up.

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A coalition of environmental, fishing and beach advocates spoke out at the Statehouse today in opposition to the state’s proposed public access rules.

The groups oppose the Coastal Permit Program Rules that, among other things, would alter scenic resources regulations and dune maintenance rules.

Although the proposed changes may sound purely technical to some not familiar with the issue, coalition spokespeople fear what is at stake is the state giving towns more authority over access and allowing wealthy landowners to bar others from access to the beaches.

They argue that New Jersey’s $40 billion-a-year tourism industry will be jeopardized.

Tom Fote, representing three of the 44 organizations opposed to the new proposals –Jersey Coast Anglers Association, N.J. Outdoor Alliance, and the state Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs – said owners of high-priced condos don’t want people coming around and towns are more concerned with ratables than public access.

Paul Harris, president of the N.J. Beach Buggy Association, said the public access doctrine that gives surf fishermen 24/7 access will be at risk if these rules go through.

John Weber, of the Surfrider Foundation, and others at a press conference said the policies of only a few towns are at issue, but they listed Deal, Sea Bright, Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, and Long Beach Island and Township as some that impede public access.

Helen Henderson of the American Littoral Society said that in Deal, control of jetties at the ends of two avenues was given to private property owners.

“Our beaches and waterways belong to us, not developers or special interests,’’ said Jeff Tittel, director of the N.J. Sierra Club, adding that the state Supreme Court has ruled that the state’s tidal waters belong to all of the people.

He and other opponents said the DEP proposals are too vague and will give municipalities too much power. He said that if the rules go through, beach enthusiasts’ only recourse will be through legislation or through the courts.

He also said that “All land touched by tidal waters belongs to the people in the public trust doctrine,” and that the DEP proposal amounts to a giveaway to special interests. 

However, DEP spokesman Larry Ragnoese said the groups are being “irresponsible’’ and are misleading people into thinking access will be restricted.

“The rules that are being proposed will enhance and improve public access, and anybody who wants to go to the Jersey shore this summer  and put a boat in the Delaware river or the bay will be able to do so,” he said.

“They are trying to scare New Jersey residents that access is going to be removed or eliminated.” He said that 98 percent of the places that most people would want to go to for fishing, surfing, and boating will have public access.

He said a previous court ruling essentially left DEP with no rules regarding access, so DEP is coming up with “common sense rules that will work.’’

The opponents were planning to deliver 1,000 postcards to the governor’s office to document opposition to the proposed rules.

There is one final public hearing for the new rules, scheduled for June 2 in Long Beach Township.

Changes to beach public access rules opposed by environmentalists, sportsmen