Manasquan beach temporarily closed after needles found on shore
The beach itself remained open, although officials urged visitors to stay out of the water during the sweep and follow lifeguard instructions.
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Manasquan beach was temporarily closed over the weekend after needles were found on a shore.
Manasquan Mayor Mike Managan says a patron found five needles, which prompted a sweep of the beach.
A total of 60 needles were found during the search. County health officials were notified about the discovery.
Beachgoers told News12 on Sunday they were shocked to hear about the news.
Priscilla Mahajan, of Manasquan, said she cleaned up some of the debris on the beach Saturday and supported the decision to close it. But after returning Sunday morning and spotting what appeared to be needle plungers and drug paraphernalia, she believes the beach reopened too soon.
"One beach cleanup is definitely not enough to say something is safe," Mahajan said. "We can't change what's in the ocean or what people have done in the past, but we can change our reaction to it."
The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) says recent heavy rain likely caused sewer overflows that carried debris onto the beach. Officials say much of what washed up was household waste, including insulin syringes commonly used at home.
A Facebook post from the Manasquan OEM says the beach was re-elevated after two high tides on Sunday.
Manasquan Police urge beachgoers who may see anything else wash up on shore to call them at 732-223-1000 and to the NJDEP 1-877-WARN-DEP.
