A popular beach in Manasquan, New Jersey, was closed to swimmers on Saturday after a significant number of syringes were found on the shoreline. The closure came after a beachgoer discovered five needles, initiating a search that yielded a total of 60 syringes. Monmouth County health officials were alerted to the situation.
Swimmers were permitted back into the water on Sunday morning. However, some beach patrons reported finding additional drug paraphernalia, including needle plungers, raising concerns about the promptness of the reopening.
Officials believe the syringes likely washed ashore following heavy rains the previous week, which may have caused sewer overflows that carried debris onto the beach. According to the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP), much of the washed-up debris included household waste, such as insulin syringes commonly used by individuals with diabetes.
The beach was reopened after authorities conducted an assessment of the area, which included two high-tide cycles, as stated in a post from the Manasquan Office of Emergency Management. Residents are encouraged to report environmental emergencies, chemical spills, illegal dumping, odor complaints, and wildlife concerns to the Manasquan Police Department or the NJDEP.