Community Corner
Will You Take the Plunge During Swimmable Waters Weekend?
Despite the unusually cool temperatures Thursday, members of Baykeeper splashed in the surf in Union Beach.
Written by Chelsea Naso.
It wasn't a typical beach day in July, but about twelve members of the NY/NJ Baykeeper and the Waterkeeper Alliance splashed into the Raritan Bay in Union Beach on Thursday.
"The water is warmer than the air," said Debbie Mans, executive director of NY/NJ Baykeeper.
The quick dip was for a cause, however, Mans explained.
"Today marks the start of Swimmable Waters Weekend," she said.
About 200 communities from more than 20 countries will be plunging into local waters throughout the weekend to raise awareness about water quality. Baykeeper, Mans explained, is particularly focused on beaches along the Raritan Bay that are not subject to regular water quality testing because they are not classified as bathing beaches.
"You can see that Union Beach has this lovely, sandy beach with volleyball courts," she said. "If you work up a sweat and want to cool off, you have no way of knowing if the water quality is safe or not."
According to Mans, part of the reason many Bayshore beaches are not classified as bathing beaches is because the municipalities cannot afford to provide lifeguards.
Tell us: Will you take the plunge during Swimmable Waters Weekend?
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