Town of Oyster Bay to receive grant from Nassau County for shark prevention equipment

The Town of Oyster Bay will receive a Community Revitalization Program Grant from Nassau County for shark prevention equipment at town beaches. Through this grant, the town will receive funds to purchase vital equipment such as water base drones, shark shields, and shark bands, as well as watercraft and watercraft prevention equipment to ensure the safety of beachgoers and all who enjoy the town’s many waterways.

“The safety and protection of our residents is top priority as shark sightings continue to rise off our shores,” Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino wrote in a statement. “We are grateful to Legislator (James) Kennedy, Legislator (Rose) Walker, Legislator (Samantha) Goetz, and County Executive (Bruce) Blakeman, as our exceptional beach staff will have the ability to utilize even more tools and equipment to safeguard beachgoers with this grant.”

While shark sightings off the coast of Long Island have increased in recent years, shark bites and attacks remain extremely rare. Officials emphasize that ongoing and enhanced monitoring, as well as beach safety protocols ensure the safety of swimmers while supporting marine life.

“As shark sightings become more frequent in our waters, it is important that we continue investing in proactive safety measures that protect everyone who visits our beaches,” Goetz added in the same statement. “This grant will provide the Town of Oyster Bay with advanced shark detection and prevention equipment, helping lifeguards and emergency personnel keep beachgoers safe while preserving access to the incredible natural resources that make our South Shore so special.”