Nesting Piping Plovers Force Temporary Partial Beach-Driving Closure At Island Beach State Park

ISLAND BEACH STATE PARK, NJ — A piping plover nest in Island Beach State Park will result in a temporary ban on beach driving at the southern end of the park beginning Friday, June 23, state officials have announced.

In a notice posted on the New Jersey State Parks, Forests and Historic Sites Facebook page, operated by the state Department of Environmental Protection, state officials said the nest is forcing the closure, which will bar mobile sportfishing permit holders from driving on the last three-quarters of a mile of the beach to the inlet. Foot traffic will be allowed in the area, "unless otherwise posted," officials said, but dogs are prohibited.

The remainder of Island Beach State Park fishing areas that allow vehicle access will remain open, the notice said.

Piping plovers are listed as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act, and as a result, the state is required to close this area to vehicle traffic when the eggs are expected to hatch, state officials said.

The vehicle barrier will be erected approximately 1,200 meters north of the jetty, and employees from the state Division of Fish & Wildlife have placed protective fencing around the nest to keep it safe from predators, such as seagulls and foxes.

"The closed area is clearly marked with warning signs and posts," state officials said.

"Mobile Sport Fishing Vehicles will be afforded the maximum amount of beach allowed by federal law," the notice said. "There will be 5.0 miles of beach still open for MSFVs. The Gillikins MSFV entrance is open and not affected by the temporary closing."

The notice did not give an estimate on when the area would reopen to driving, but the closure remains in place until the chicks fledge. Last year, a1.25-mile stretch leading to the Barnegat Inlet jetty was closed to vehicles from June 30 until mid-August, according to the DEP. Four chicks hatched, but only two survived to fledge, state officials said.

State officials warned that because of the temporary closure, the park "may reach its capacity of MSFVs sooner than normal. Should this be the case, IBSP will close to MSFVs. We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring the next generation of New Jersey’s shorebirds has a safe and successful start on our beach."

Photo vis New Jersey State Parks, Forests & Historic Sites