Boaters Beware: Dangerous Shoaling By Forked River South To Oyster Creek Entrance

The United States Coast Guard Station out of Barnegat Light is warning all area boaters that a serious shoaling condition has developed on Barnegat Bay near the Forked River south to the Oyster Creek entrance on the Intercoastal Waterway, Police Chief David A. Paprota said.

All boaters in the area between Buoys 36 and 40 in the Oyster Creek Channel should navigate the area with extreme caution due to severe shoaling, he said.

Boaters should reduce speed, have occupants wear life jackets, post a lookout and keep a safe distance away to allow for maneuvering, the said.

“The USCG Station Barnegat Light has reported that some buoys in the affected area have been relocated to better identify the dangers,” Paprota said. ”Boaters should remain cautious in navigating these extremely shallow and hazardous areas.”