Island Beach State Park Manager To Visitors: Please Stay Off The Dunes

A message from Island Beach State Park Manager Ray Bukowski:

The State Park Service is requesting assistance from our visitors of Island Beach State Park to help minimize adverse impacts to the dune system from unauthorized foot traffic.

The extensive dune system through the length of Island Beach is a valued treasure that serves to provide its own resource to the flora and fauna of the barrier island. It also serves to protect the ecosystems of the island, Barnegat Bay and the mainland of Ocean County.

As many species of birds are in the height of migration the park is experiencing wonderful visitation as so many people enjoy watching and photographing the many visiting species, particularly the snowy owl which have been present recently.

However, many folks are tempted to leave the marked trails and trek through and over the dune system in an effort to find particular birds. Any foot traffic will impact a dune, ANY TRAFFIC. Each foot print will destabilize the sand and cause erosion, one step will destroy a dune grass plant or break a vital rhizome which knit the dune and stabilize the structure.

Users must be reminded that walking on the dune and off the marked trails is a violation of Park Service rules. Individuals who violate these rules are subject to a penalty and or eviction from the park.

We are requesting that all visitors remind and/or educate all other visitors in an informative and positive manner so that our precious natural resources are protected for all to enjoy.

Finally, users must be reminded that dune management is a painstaking process supported by thousands of volunteer hours and donations of vegetation and fencing provided by many supporting organizations particularly the New Jersey Beach Buggy Association and the Friends of Island Beach State Park.

In order to protect our resources and also honor the support they receive, all are reminded that these rules will be enforced to the greatest extent possible.

Thank you,
Ray Bukowski
Park Manager