There are certain beaches where the NYS Park system needs to update it’s rules regarding who and what is allowed at the Beach.
LIBAG is fortunate to with New York State officials in order to implement solutions that encourage more diverse use of NYS’s Beaches.
When we were kids growing up in and around Long Island’s waters it sure seemed like it was an endless and wonderful resource. Now as adults we realize this is far from reality. LIBAG sees the difficult choices that must be dealt with on a day to day basis, balancing economic, environmental, concerns with the public’s usage, access, and safety.
We want to work with all user groups and lobbies to manage ocean beaches that can be enjoyed by all. We understand this may not be the easiest route to access…but it is certainly the fairest for all involved. LIBAG doesn’t want the Ocean for ourselves.
LIBAG wants Ocean Access for All. It is not LIBAG's intent to take away any existing rights of NYS Beach users. Only to add to them.
Every time we tread out on that fragile sand bar we refer to as a barrier island we are grateful for the vision of Robert Moses. Where as the rest of Long Island is losing its waterfront and wet lands to private homes at an alarming pace; We are most grateful to the NYS Parks System for a place where nature is allowed to take its course. A place where the next generation can surf, sail, swim, sunbathe, fish, kayak or just soak in Long Islands Natural Beauty. And we want to keep it that way.
LIBAG understands that the gut reaction of most environmentalists is: then why do you drive on the beach?
Well we all pollute to some extent. Nobody has the higher moral ground. Walking would absolutely be the best way to access these remote beaches. But not every one is capable of that walk. Access by boat is possible, but that usually involves a two stoke engine. Two stroke engines create about 1,000 times the pollution than an auto. By some estimates, they dump up to two thirds of their fuel unburned, directly in to the water.
So yes we do take our trucks out on the beach. Sometimes it is the only way you can take you wife, kids, and gear along with you. And we would like to remain married to our wives and kids, let them share in our experience. When we were in our 20’s and maybe even our 30’s we could hike several miles in the sand with our gear. Now in our 40’s,50’s & 60’s it’s just not as doable. Especially when you want to bring your family with you, as our fathers did with us. This is why we often end up surfing, windsurfing, or Kayaking at one of the State’s Town Beaches. They are more expensive and crowded; but in many cases they allow us greater access to the ocean the State of NY’s “public” Beaches.
LIBAG members 4X4 responsibly. We air down our tires. Drive at least two car lengths up beach from either the ridge line or high tide mark. Pack everything in and out, including human waste. That is just lower impact than a hard structure like a road, or building. The alternative is some rich guys private multi million dollar home. Given that choice; I’ll take limited beach vehicle access any day.
LIBAG is fortunate to work with New York State Park officials, as we continue to connect the Parks to the People.
We look forward to our continued work with New York State officials in order to implement solutions that encourage more diverse use of NYS’s Beaches.
