Shellfish farming is an important and ever growing sector in New Jersey’s coastal economy. Given the continuing entry of new shellfish farmers and planned expansion of existing farms in the State, further growth is inevitable and would result in significant ecological and economic benefits while providing high quality sustainable seafood to meet increasing consumer demand.
The new Apprenticeship in Shellfish Aquaculture Program (ASAP) is an initiative offered through a partnership between New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium and Rutgers University that offers high school students an opportunity to learn about aquaculture while getting their “feet wet” in the field through virtual and experiential training. The purpose of this pilot project is to introduce middle and high school students and their communities to aquaculture as a career opportunity and an emerging and important food production system. By providing a pathway to enter careers in this growing sector, ASAP provides students with an understanding of the field of shellfish aquaculture and helps them build necessary skills so that they are employment-ready and primed for a successful career start.
Diana Burich with ASAP students at Cape May Salt Oyster Farm.
Project development began in summer 2021, when collaborators engaged NJ educators interested in increasing aquaculture literacy in their schools with industry professionals in a 3-day workshop to develop curriculum content, discuss instructional approaches and to identify necessary employment skills. Teachers then recruited students for ASAP in spring 2022, which employs a three-fold approach: virtual workshops, in-person “boot camp” and 20-hour farm work experience.
Beginning in May, seven high school students participated in four hour-long virtual workshops where they learned about local and global applications of aquaculture and had the opportunity to interact with researchers, professionals and shellfish growers. During the week of June 27, ASAP students participated in the second program component: a 1-week summer training “boot camp” that offered in-class lessons and field experiences at Rutgers University’s Cape Shore Laboratory and Aquaculture Innovation Center in Cape May County.
Students learning about oyster ecology & biology from Michael Acquafredda, PhD post-doc from NOAA NEFSC
According to Diana Burich, Director of Education and co-creator of the program, “As the aquaculture industry in New Jersey grows, there is a real need to help shellfish farmers find competent employees. ASAP is an opportunity for students who already have an interest in shellfish aquaculture to be immersed in learning about this food source, how products are grown and marketed, and what it really takes to make that happen. The students were full of enthusiasm and enjoyed the activities, and the entire group, collaborators and students alike, were understanding of the importance of this project. Whether students plan to pursue aquaculture in college or head directly out into the workforce, NJSGC has a responsibility as a resource in helping to bring these two sectors together and provide relevant opportunities for growth.”
Oyster dissection, pea crab & using dye to show how oysters transfer particulates across gills
Oyster dissection, pea crab & using dye to show how oysters transfer particulates across gills
Facilitated by Burich and collaborators Jenny Shinn of Rutgers University’s Haskin Shellfish Research Laboratory and Lisa Calvo of Sweet Amalia Oyster Farm, students learned about the biology and ecology of oysters and hard clams, two economically-important species grown in NJ. Students toured Cape May Salt oyster farm, built farm gear, and helped maintain “crops” to keep them fouling- and disease-free. Staff and interns at the Aquaculture Innovation Center and Cape Shore Lab led students through hatchery and husbandry operations, where students learned about life stages and the importance of algae in the production of larval spat.. Experts like Michael Acquafredda, PhD, National Research Council’s postdoctoral research associate from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Northeast Fisheries Science Center (NOAA NEFSC) and Douglas Zemeckis, PhD, Rutgers University’s Cooperative Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources County Agent, met with students and talked about current research and shellfish farms as agricultural and commercial businesses . Students even learned to shuck oysters, identify flavor profiles and cook Oysters Rockefeller.
NJSGC’s Coastal and Marine Science Education and Community Engagement intern, Catherine Rodriguez with Jihyana Price, NOAA IN-FISH intern.
Students are currently in the final phase of the program: 20-hour farm experience where they will gain experience in aquaculture-related work thanks to collaborating industry partners such as Sweet Amalia Oyster Farm in Cape May Courthouse and Forty North Oyster Farm in Barnegat. Upon completion of the program, students will receive a Shellfish Aquaculture Apprenticeship Certificate of Accomplishment, a stipend for their participation and a greater appreciation for New Jersey’s shellfish farmers and the aquaculture industry overall collaboration with industry and academic project partners
The sun is out, the shades are on, and the smell of sunscreen and BBQs is in the air…which can mean only one thing: It’s finally time to cast your vote for New Jersey’s favorite beach!
The fate of our beaches is in your hands. Choose your favorite local “hotspots” from a list of amazing beaches throughout the Jersey Shore’s four coastal counties – Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth, and Ocean. New Jersey Sea Grant (NJSGC) will announce the winners around the July Fourth holiday. Click here to vote: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/favoritebeach2022!
An overall victor is still announced, with Ocean City remaining undefeated champ over the past several years. But will that impressive winning streak end in 2022? Asbury Park has definitely proved a fierce competitor over the past couple years… You decide! Read more from our friend, Nicole Murray from 94.3 “The Point.” She’s not biased about her favorite beach, whatsoever!
Debuting in 2008 as New Jersey’s “Top Ten Beaches,” the survey was initially designed to encourage friendly competition and camaraderie amongst popular Jersey Shore communities along the coast. Following Hurricane Sandy, the contest was rebranded “Favorite Beaches” to diversify results so that ALL areas of the Garden State’s gorgeous oceanfront are recognized, inspiring a refreshing sense of unity and support.
Be sure to share NJSGC’s highly-anticipated “Favorite Beaches” poll with family and friends, and stay tuned for the official results later this summer.
Connect with New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Twitter for more updates. Thank you for your continued support!
Love what New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium does? We are currently hiring for 2 positions at our Sandy Hook office:
Field Instructor: The New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC), a non-profit organization on Sandy Hook, is hiring part-time field instructors for their K-12 Education Program and Scout Program. NJSGC provides students and scouts with dynamic ocean science programs that may include but not be limited to outdoor experiential learning activities such as seining, interactive games, scientific demonstrations and laboratory experiments. Join a great group of people that love the beach, the outdoors and sharing their knowledge with students to promote a love of environmental science. Gain hands-on educational experience and work in one of the most unique natural “classroom” environments in New Jersey, Gateway National Recreation Area-Sandy Hook Unit. Click here to view job description.
Communications Intern: New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC) is currently seeking a summer intern to work within the communications department and assist staff with all relevant tasks including (but not limited to): social media campaigns, video production, event coverage/promotion, and programmatic outreach. This position is ideal for undergraduates (preferably third or fourth year) interested in pursuing a career in the digital communications field, with a unique emphasis on marine, coastal, and STEM initiatives. The intern will report directly to NJSGC’s Communications Specialist and work throughout the busy 2022 summer season (June-August) at the Jersey Shore. Click here to view the full job description.
Job openings and fellowship opportunities across the Sea Grant Network are listed on the National Sea Grant website. Click here to see all current openings.
The New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Proper documentation of identity and your ability to work in the United States is required at the time of employment.
Eileen Murphy, Janice DeFalco, and Suzanne Chiavari of American Water Works Association New Jersey present grant award to Diana Burich, Director of Education, and Kanesha Jones, NJSGC Board of Trustee Member and Central Jersey Club of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs, Inc.
The $2,000 grant will support NJSGC’s education initiatives throughout the State of New Jersey. Funds will be directed towards further development of an interactive underwater robotics program with underserved minority students in Asbury Park and Neptune, giving children the opportunity to experience hands-on STEM education right in their own neighborhoods. This grant will also provide student transportation to participate in a pilot aquaculture apprenticeship program in the Delaware Bay-shore area. This program will introduce high school students to aquaculture as an important food source and an emerging industry in New Jersey.
“We are grateful to NJAWWA for recognizing the relevance of NJSGC’s programs to their mission of providing safe, clean water for all citizens and creating a better world through better water. Through their support, NJSGC will continue to better prepare the next generation of decision makers to thoughtfully care for our watersheds and ocean environments.”
– Diana Burich, NJSGC Director of Education
Diana Burich, Director of Education, gives NJAWWA members a glimpse of the natural environments explored during NJSGC’s education programs on Sandy Hook.
Please click here to learn more about NJSGC’s Educational Programs.
AWWA New Jersey Section ~ A Better World Through Better Water
The New Jersey Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA NJ) is dedicated to providing solutions to effectively manage water, the world’s most important resource. AWWA NJ is proactive and passionate about water! We work to advance technology, science, proper management and government policies relative to the stewardship of water. AWWA NJ is the recognized resource for information and guidance for local and state government, water utilities, and the general public.
AWWA NJ is made up of more than 1,300 members united in a mission to provide safe drinking water to the people of New Jersey. Our members include most of New Jersey’s public and investor-owned water utilities along with engineering and environmental professionals and allied industry businesses.
As part of the American Water Works Association, the New Jersey Section joins over 50,000 water professionals and vendors worldwide in a dynamic organization dedicated to a better world through better water.
New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium is excited to welcome Samantha Kreisler aboard as their new Communications Specialist. Samantha comes to NJSGC with a strong background in marine policy and conservation, extensive experience communicating science and a history of working towards fostering environmental stewardship with various stakeholders.
With inspiration and guidance from her father, a New York Harbor boat captain, she grew up on the water learning the importance of preserving our marine environment and its resources. Graduating from the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science with a BA in Marine Policy and a MS in Marine Science Ecosystems and Society, Samantha pursued her interest in marine science and combined it with her passion for environmental conservation to embark on a career of finding real-world solutions to environmental challenges. This led her to positions at NY/NJ Baykeeper and Clean Water Action, where she honed her ability to communicate science through storytelling to the public.
In her most recent position as the Outreach Coordinator atHackensack Riverkeeper, Samantha managed communications efforts of this grassroots non-profit organization, from creating content for their website and newsletter to social media campaigns and digital marketing. Samantha also oversaw volunteer programs such as community and corporate river clean-ups and coordinated major events like fishing derbies and HRK’s annual gala.
Samantha was introduced to NJSGC in 2019 by a friend and was quickly hired as a seasonal field instructor. Her content knowledge, background experience and enthusiasm made her a great candidate for the position. According to Diana Burich, Director of Education, “Samantha was a fabulous field instructor who engaged visiting school groups with her energy and passion, always interacting with a bright smile as she taught children about the importance of NJ’s marine and coastal environments and why it is necessary to care for them. We’re ecstatic to have her back at NJSGC in greater capacity!”
As communications specialist, Samantha is responsible for writing and distributing content including the NJSGC newsletter COASTodian, email blasts, managing social media accounts, and documenting NJSGC’s presence and research impacts throughout the State of New Jersey and Mid-Atlantic region. Within NJSGC, Samantha will be an integral part of its strategic planning, fund-raising efforts, and research communications. As part of the Sea Grant Communications Network, Samantha will work with other state Sea Grant programs and the National Sea Grant office to represent New Jersey’s voice and to improve Sea Grant communications as a whole.
“Samantha’s expertise, depth of experience, enthusiastic commitment and fresh perspectives will be a positive influence on our organization. Her background in marine science and familiarity with science communications made her the perfect choice for the position. We are looking forward to having her back onboard,” said Pete Rowe, PhD, Acting Executive Director, New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium.
In her spare time, Samantha is a sitting board member of Save Coastal Wildlife, a nonprofit organization dedicated to educating the public about the wildlife along the Jersey Shore. When she’s not in the office, she can be found kayaking, scuba diving, and walking (or swimming) along the Jersey Shore with her rescue pup, Lady.
The NJ Coastal Management Program and the NJ State Council on the Arts are partnering on a Risk Communication Art Installation Grant Program. The Arts Council released a Call for Artists to select artists that will be paired with 4 community based organizations in the coastal area. The organizations are Atlantic City Arts Foundation, the Bayshore Center at Bivalve, Monmouth Arts, and Passaic County. Below is additional information.
This grant program is just one component of a larger Risk Communication Campaign that the CMP and JCNERR are undertaking over the next year with funding from NOAA.
Due to the popularity of this program, FREE field trips are no longer available for the 2024-2025 school year.
Explore Sandy Hook from your classroom or in person with the Every Kid Outdoors Program – FREE to 3rd 4th and 5th Graders!
Whether your students are in class or learning from home, we can enhance their educational experience and support your curriculum with an awesome program! For more than 30 years, school groups from New Jersey and neighboring states have enjoyed learning about coastal ecosystems with New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC) at Sandy Hook, a unit of Gateway National Recreation Area. NJSGC is proud to partner with the National Park Service and Jamaica Bay-Rockaway Parks Conservancy to offer FREE programs to 3rd 4th and 5th grade students for 2024-2025 school year.
As part of the Every Kid Outdoors initiative, 3rd 4th and 5th graders (along with their families and teachers) are encouraged to visit national parks to experience the natural wonders and cultural history that can be found there. NJSGC headquarters has long been located at Sandy Hook, bringing this unique national park experience to tens of thousands of students since 1976.
Educators with 3rd 4th and 5th grade students interested in participating in the Every Kid Outdoors program through NJSGC can choose from 1 in-person field trip at Sandy Hook or 3 remote synchronous learning programs, all provided FREE of charge and led by NJSGC Educators.
Field Trip Program:
Marsh & Ocean Environments– This full-day outdoor experience is a comprehensive introduction to the salt marsh and barrier beach environments found along New Jersey’s coasts. The program, divided into two segments, covers salt marsh exploration and beach dynamics. This hands-on field trip will provide students with the opportunity to explore concepts such as estuary processes, native flora and fauna, marine food webs, scientific data and sampling, as well as historical human impacts on these unique environments.
Lenape and the Jersey Shore– The program involves students in problem solving and teamwork, through an exploration of Sandy Hook’s marine environment from the perspective of the native people who once camped there in summertime. By focusing on coastal community life, students will gain insight into the Lenape lifestyle, organization and traditions. This full-day outdoor program provides a “hands-on” introduction to the historic coastal lifestyle of New Jersey’s natives, the Lenape people.
Remote Programs:
Coastal Ecosystems – Based on our most popular and comprehensive field trip, Marsh & Ocean Environments, students learn about the estuaries, maritime forests, and barrier beaches at Gateway National Recreation Area and the NY-NJ Harbor Estuary. Explore the importance of the plants and animals found there, and how human interactions with these environments can both positively and negatively impact them. Discover the concepts of watersheds and marine food webs through a lively interactive and game-enhanced presentation.
Terrific Terrapins – Meet New Jersey’s estuarine turtles, the Northern Diamondback Terrapin, in this fun program that teaches students why these animals are so unique and important to our coastal ecosystems. Students will participate in an interactive presentation with a LIVE Northern Diamondback Terrapin to answer questions about this reptile’s adaptations, anatomy, habitat, and more. Students will also learn about the impacts humans are having on terrapin populations, and what some local groups and scientists are doing to help protect this charming turtle.
Sharks vs. Rip Currents – Even though sharks are often seen as the most dangerous and life-threatening inhabitants of the ocean, children really love learning about them. Rip currents are more common and actually can be more of a hazard to bathers. Students learn about shark ecology and what makes them an important apex predator in the marine environment. Rip current mechanics are discussed as students learn how to spot them from the beach and safely escape if they are caught in one. Students test their knowledge as they work in teams in a Jeopardy-style game that compares the aspects of these two marine “inhabitants.”
All programs support New Jersey Student Learning Standards and can be modified for learning abilities. Remote learning programs are 45-60 minutes and accommodate 1 class of up to 25 students. Field trips are full-day outdoor experiential learning programs that accommodate 1 class of up to 25 students, multiple classes can be accommodated daily.
TO RECEIVE A FREE PROGRAM 3rd 4th and 5th grade educators agree to:
Watch a short video (Gateway Overview 2020) from the National Park Service with your students to prepare them for their virtual or in-person field trip;
Participate in one of the NJSGC instructor-led programs mentioned above; and
Give us your follow-up feedback by completing a short survey.
Links to the video and survey will also be provided in your program reservation confirmation email. Contact the Education Department atreservations@njseagrant.orgfor further information. Book your program with out online reservation request form.
JULY 2022: This summer, New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium (NJSGC) and New York Sea Grant (NYSG) want you to enjoy the BEach SAFEly!
COVID-19 brings more considerations beyond the usual “beach safety and ocean hazards” messaging. Starting this month and continuing into September, our Sea Grant programs will debut a new social media graphic each week to remind beachgoers to stay safe while still having fun at the Jersey Shore and beyond!
For more information, please visit the NYSG “BEach SAFEly” homepage.
Week 1: Stay Social, Be Distant! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
This summer, the beaches are open and you should enjoy them! Just remember that you still need to practice social distancing – embrace your personal space.
Stay at least 6 feet apart from other beachgoers that you didn’t come with; this is about the average length of a surfboard, two boogie boards, a bit more than an beach towel length, or three beach chairs – you could even measure based on your beach umbrella pole!
When you’re walking around the beach, to and from the parking lot or other facilities, or if you can’t stay more than 6 feet apart from others, remember to wear your mask. Frequently wash or sanitize your hands – and if you feel sick, stay home.
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Week 2: Break the Grip of the Rip! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Rip currents are one of the deadliest beach hazards. They occur as ocean water moves swiftly away from the shore.
If caught in a rip, the most important thing is to remain calm! Wave or call for help, “flip” onto your back and “float” rather than fighting against the current, and “follow” as it takes you to calmer waters where it dissipates and you can swim safely to shore.
If you notice someone else in danger, do not try to save them yourselves. Instead, maintain visual contact with the victim and send another beachgoer to get help, find a lifeguard, or call 9-1-1.
Week 3: Shoreline Rescue | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Many rescuers often become victims themselves, so if you notice someone in the water who needs assistance, follow these steps to help them while still staying safe yourself!
Act quickly, maintain sight of the victim, call for help or send someone else to get help, and (if possible) throw a floatable to them.
Common beach items that float include life jackets, coolers, boogie boards, surfboards, or pool toys.
Remember to enjoy the beach safely this summer by (1) avoiding physical contact with others (outside of those who you came with); (2) bringing and wearing your mask when you’re not sitting on your towel or in the water; (3) washing your hands; and (4) if you feel sick, stay home!
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Week 4: Grab your sunscreen and sanitizer! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays which are powerful enough to damage your skin and result in sunburn. The National Weather Service (NWS) issues a daily UV Index, a number ranging from 0-10; the higher the number, the greater amount of skin damaging UV radiation. Make sure to check this number and the appropriate protective actions before you spend a day outside.
When you do go outside, use a broad spectrum sunscreen to protect against UV rays, which contribute to premature aging, sunburn, and skin cancer. Apply generously and reapply every two hours and/or when you get out of the water.
This summer, in addition to protecting yourself from the sun, remember to protect yourself from COVID-19. Don’t forget to bring any extra safety precautions such as your mask, which should be worn when you can’t social distance, and plenty of hand sanitizer to apply often.
To increase effectiveness, your hand sanitizer should be at least 60% alcohol and wipe any sand or sunscreen off before applying.
Remember to enjoy the beach safely this summer by (1) avoiding physical contact with others (outside of those who you came with); (2) bringing and wearing your mask when you’re not sitting on your towel or in the water; (3) washing your hands; and (4) if you feel sick, stay home!
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Week 5: Be a water watcher! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
While enjoying the beach, please remember that there are many hazards to consider – a nice day can quickly turn dangerous or even deadly!
Be aware of your surroundings and pay attention to those you are with, particularly small children or those who are poor swimmers. By doing this, you can react more quickly if a situation were to occur.
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Week 6: Stay dry when waves are high! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Waves form as the wind interacts with the ocean’s surface, so the stronger the wind becomes, the larger the waves get! Even smaller waves can be very powerful and easily knock over a wader or toss around and disorient a swimmer.
If you do go into the water while at the beach, always swim near a lifeguard. And if you notice someone in trouble, remember to call for help rather than attempting to perform a rescue yourself.
But – as illustrated in “Stay dry when waves are high!” – if the waves look high, enjoy a day playing on the sand.
The National Weather Service issues daily surf forecasts, so always be sure to check your local report before you head to the beach. And if the waves look high, enjoy a day playing on the sand and taking beautiful snapshots of the sea!
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Week 7: Don’t let your mask become marine debris! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Marine debris, as defined by NOAA’s Marine Debris Program, is any manufactured solid material that is intentionally or unintentionally disposed of or abandoned into the marine system. Marine debris can originate at the beach or make its way to the ocean from inland areas being carried by water or wind; it persists in the marine environment and causes harm to plants and animals.
If you remove your personal protection equipment, be alert and aware that it doesn’t blow away and land in the ocean. Make sure to always “carry in and carry out” and dispose of your trash in appropriate receptacles. When at the beach, please only leave your sandy footprints behind!
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Week 8: Pay Attention to Lifeguards! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Lifeguards work to protect beachgoers from ocean-related hazards, such as rip currents. In fact, according to the United State Lifesaving Association (USLA), the chance of drowning at a lifeguarded beach is approximately 1 in 18 million.
Therefore, it’s important to always swim near a lifeguard and listen to their warnings!
When you arrive at the beach, check with a lifeguard if you are unsure where you can or if it is safe to swim.
Flags may be flown at the beach that express different hazards or designate swimming areas that may change from time to time; if you are unsure of their meanings, ask a lifeguard!
Several Jersey Shore towns are extending the summer season for 2020. Check out this growing list of participating beach communities from 94.3 “The Point.”
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Week 9: Rock the Jacket, Tailor the Type! | English PDF | Spanish PDF
Life jackets are required when enjoying various water recreational activities such as boating, kayaking and paddleboarding!
Life jackets are available in different shapes, colors, and sizes; each tailored to the type of activity – check out U.S. Coast Guard’s “Wearing Your Life jacket” and National Safe Boating Council’s “Wear It” to learn more. Be sure to read your life jacket’s label to assure that it is appropriate for your size and activity. Life jackets are made for adults, children, and even pets!
Remember to enjoy the beach safely this summer by (1) avoiding physical contact with others (outside of those who you came with) – stay at least 6 feet away from fellow beach goers and swimmers; (2) bringing and wearing your mask when you’re not sitting on your towel or in the water. however, masks should not be worn in the water, as they can be difficult to breathe through if they get wet; (3) washing/sanitizing your hands; and (4) if you feel sick, stay home!
Things are a bit different at the Jersey Shore this year, and New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium would like to refer everyone to the CDC’s “Guiding Principles to Keep in Mind at the Beach” when visiting the Garden State coastline.
NJSGC’s long-standing “Favorite Beaches” survey also ran a bit differently this year. The current situation surrounding COVID-19 greatly impacted the poll’s outcome, with limited planning, participation, and publicity. As a surprising result, the winners list is more diversified and widespread as compared to previous years. Even without the possibility of hosting a public ceremony alongside the ocean, NJSGC is thrilled to announce the top “favorite beaches” throughout Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth, and Ocean Counties for 2020!
Please stay tuned for the launch of NJSGC’s “BEach SAFEly” campaign in partnership with New York Sea Grant. COVID-19 brings more considerations beyond our usual Rip Current Awareness messaging, so every week starting in early July, we will be launching a new graphic to remind beachgoers to have fun while remaining safe, healthy, and alert.
Kirsten Hogg, “Brigantine Sunrise”
Atlantic County:
Brigantine
Atlantic City
Margate
Cody Molowski, “Autumn At Sunset Beach” (Cape May)
Cape May County:
Cape May
The Wildwoods
Ocean City
Linda Griffiths, “Late August Evening” (Sandy Hook)
Monmouth County:
Asbury Park
Bradley Beach
Belmar / Manasquan / Sandy Hook – Gateway National Recreation Area (three-way tie)
Patrick Welsh, “Lonely Dunes” (Point Pleasant Beach)
Ocean County:
Point Pleasant Beach
Lavallette
Island Beach State Park
Top overall:
Brigantine
Cape May
Atlantic City
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Thousands of voters also participated in NJSGC’s revamped “Jersey Shore” photo contest (four contestants were featured in the list above). The competition was intense, with over 100 breathtaking snapshots submitted, but we’re happy to announce the Top 12 photographs which will be featured in NJSGC’s popular desktop calendar for 2021. Check out the winners here.
VOTING IS NOW CLOSED. PLEASE STAY TUNED FOR NJSGC’S FULL LIST OF WINNERS.
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New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium Debuts “Favorite Beaches” Poll for Summer 2020 with 94.3 THE POINT!
Current times remain daunting and uncertain for most. But take a moment to close your eyes and just imagine – sandy toes, sun-kissed skin, gentle gusts of the warm, salty air… That’s the epitome of summers spent at the Jersey Shore. Despite the future’s unknown, one thing remains for sure. The beaches await our return – under whatever circumstances that might be.
NJSGC would like to keep the traditions going this Memorial Day Weekend with 94.3 “The Point.” And with that, we’re proud to debut the highly-anticipated “Favorite Beaches” poll for 2020!
Starting today, fans get to choose their favorite local “hotspots” from a list of amazing beaches located throughout the Jersey Shore’s four coastal counties – Atlantic, Cape May, Monmouth, and Ocean. NJSGC will announce the winners around the July Fourth holiday.
First established in 2008 as New Jersey’s “Top Ten Beaches,” the survey was initially designed to encourage friendly competition and camaraderie amongst popular Jersey Shore communities along the coast. Following Hurricane Sandy, the contest was rebranded “Favorite Beaches” to diversify results so that ALL areas of the Garden State’s gorgeous oceanfront are recognized, inspiring a refreshing sense of unity and support.
An overall “top beach” is still announced, with Ocean City remaining undefeated over the past several years. But will that impressive winning streak end in 2020? Asbury Park, Seaside Heights, Margate, and Brigantine have definitely proved fierce competitors over the past few years… You decide!
Be sure to share the “Favorite Beaches” poll with family and friends, and stay tuned for when NJSGC announces the official results of 2020 later this summer.
NJSGC would like to send a huge thank you to 94.3 “The Point” for their continued support and enthusiasm!
Our mission at NJSGC is to promote the wise use of the State’s marine and coastal resources through research, education, and outreach. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for more updates. Please contact NJSGC’s communications specialist for more information.
