EDIT: This has become such an 'us vs. them' argument, and it's not about that. This is not about 'boaters vs. non-boaters' This is about free beach access, and this is about 'think about where the money goes before you agree to another new fee.'

You are allowed to have a voice when this state decides to levy a new fee, not just sit and take it. The new fee could be parking. It could be taxes. It could be the article that came out today about the open space program money going to salaries instead of funding environmental programs.

Rise up, folks. Rise up. That is all.

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Tice's Shoal has existed for 20+ years. It is a well loved and frequented spot for boaters to go and relax on the bay, and occasionally cross over to Island Beach State Park. This has always been free of charge - but the state is currently trying to impose a $3 fee on boaters going across. Beaches should be free. Tice's Shoal was one of the last ways to enjoy a natural resource for free in New Jersey (if you were able to pay the costs of owning a boat). This is a shameless money grab by the state. There has been no need for a lifeguard to be placed at the beach, which will be accompanying and 'justifying' the new charge. There are other ways to raise money for state parks.

If Island Beach is free to pedestrians who walk in via the front entrance or by bicycle, why is it different for boaters who walk on from a different entrance?

In order to avoid paying, many 'alternate routes' will be created through the dunes, compromising them.

Ironically, boaters are some of the more capable swimmers who probably need lifeguards less than most folks who drive on. Some boaters actually have to swim from their boats through the bay in order to even get to the beach to cross over to the ocean side.

If a person feels they need lifeguard supervision, they are many (read: nearly all) beaches where they can find an abundance of lifeguards.

People pay to enter the park in cars because their cars will be taking up parking spots. Boaters are not taking up these spots.

People also drive to Tice's Shoal - and are just as much at fault for any trash at the spot.

Many other states have free beaches or beaches where you can swim at your own risk. Most of these states have waters far more dangerous than NJ. If NJ is incapable of free beaches, maybe state spending needs to be examined more thoroughly.

Many boaters also buy the yearly car pass, buggy pass, or both. Is it fair to be charged 3 times for the same beach?

These are just SOME of the reasons Tice's should stay free.

The argument that people pay to get on in cars, so boaters should pay too  continues to come up with those who oppose this petition. No one should have to pay for beaches, period. It is pretty sad that residents believe that they should have to pay for beaches. And just in case anyone believes that NJ boaters are rich... think again. Boaters are most often working class individuals whose boats are their only luxury item. If you've worked hard for your watercraft - there is no reason you should be charged more to enjoy it. Except - NJ already does that with taxes on marine gas, boater registration, boater certificates, and more.

KEEP TICE'S FREE!