The swimming beach at Ocean County Park in Lakewood will remain closed for the last week of the summer season because a large population of Canada Geese has settled near the park’s lake.
“For the safety of our residents and visitors it was decided not to reopen the beach this year.” said Freeholder John C. Bartlett, Jr., liaison to the Ocean County Department of Parks and Recreation.
The large number of geese has resulted in high bacteria counts at the swimming beach, Bartlett said.
The problem is usually worse late in the summer because the lake water is warmer and offers a better environment for the bacteria.
“Ocean County Park itself is safe and remains open,” Bartlett said. “We are only closing the beach to swimming.”
The closing only impacts several days because the beach was already scheduled to close for the season at the end of the day next Monday, September 5.
Canada Geese have long been a problem not only in the county, but in the entire region. Droppings from the large birds allow bacteria to flourish in shallow and still lake waters.
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Did these geese get a permit?
The North and South Lake beaches in Lakewood were closed down permanently years ago for the same reason. They used to be really nice beaches where we could take the kids swimming.
I didn’t realize it had even opened this year. I used to bring my babies there. I tried bringing my grandbabies out one time and was horrified!!!
Such a lush and beautiful place. I wonder if the Township ccould afford to hire Geese Police. The park is one of Lakewood greatest attractions!!!
I was there for the first time yesterday and couldn’t figure out where or what was the swimming beach but I had to keep reminding my daughter to watch where she stepped.