Losing Access - Save Drag Island Access.....

[DarkSkies]

This is about the demolition of the Rt 9 Bridge at the place familiar to many from South Jersey as Beesly's Point.

Many are familiar with this bridge and the productive fishing area around it......
some are not.....
I'll try to post up a little background on it as I have time......and relate it to other access battles I and others have fought for in the last few years...

[DarkSkies]

The situation:

1. With the creation of a new southbound Parkway bridge that spans across the Egg Harbor river, access to drag island will be lost forever.

2. The existing plan is to demolish the Rt9 bridge, which spans from SomersPoint-Beesly's Pt.

3. The island has always been accessible, even when the Rt 9 bridge was open.

4. Since the bridge was shut down do to structural problems, the area has been frequently used by people who enjoy the outdoors, and know what a fantastic area the Egg harbor river is.

5. If we don't get our local politicians to push for the repair or replacement of the span, while construction of the parkway span is ongoing, then we will most likely never see access to that area again..EVER!



**One of the ways to save this access is by signing an online petition......

This has been posted here.....
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/

[DarkSkies]

I am asking all who read this, whether you are a member here or not...if you could please take a moment and sign this petition....it does not ask for a lot of personal info other than your name.....

And you can opt out of e-mail notification if you wish.....
It's fast, easy, and painless......:thumbsup:
There are a lot of threads here about access, and lost access....when I have time I'll try to come in and show the parallels and the losses to the fishing and outdoors community when access is taken away........

In the meantime, I'm asking you folks here, and anyone who reads this, to please take a moment, and sign.....

238 signatures so far......
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/

[DarkSkies]

An old fishing mentor and friend of mine was fond of saying......
"Access once lost, is rarely if ever regained..."

Food for thought....thanks for reading......:HappyWave:

[DarkSkies]

If you want to add something to the comments section, maybe you could put in something like this.....
(your own words would be better)
This is listed to show that there are many other options for this bridge than demolition. Even if repair is too costly, there are places where bridges have been left as is with minor repairs, motorist barriers put up, and the bridges remain open to pedestrian traffic.


"With the demolition of the Beesley's point bridge, now would be the time to repair the existing north end bridge, if only for foot traffic or build a fishing pier in it's place. "

[DarkSkies]

Here is another comment to give you some ideas......


"New Jersey residents deserve the unimpeded enjoyment and use of our beautiful coastal areas including recreational access to Drag Island.

Future plans regarding infrastructure redevelopment in and around the island would necessarily deny the public rightful access to land held in the public trust.

We ask, as stakeholders and stewards of Drag Island, that you listen to our input regarding the continuation of access to Drag Island. The citizens of New Jersey who utilize this and other coastal places will work tirelessly to procure a seat at the table so that our voice will be heard. "







Remember that comments are optional, but they do give a little bit more credence to an online petition.....
As always, if you have time to write a letter via snail mail and mail directly, those letters have the most weight, but an online petition can't hurt if there are enough signatures.....

More on this when I get some time......

[ledhead36]

That was easy. Done, thanks.

[DarkSkies]

Thanks to anyone who can help by signing this....as has been mentioned here several times, if you have the time to write a letter it could have more impact, but if not, every signature on the petition is another show of support for access for all fishermen everywhere......:thumbsup:

[DarkSkies]

The was in the Press of Atlantic City, Feb 1, 2013.




...

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/breaking/environmental-dispute-that-threatened-beesleys-point-bridge-demolition-is-resolved/article_c0aafd0e-6c8d-11e2-a8e8-0019bb2963f4.html
Environmental dispute that threatened Beesleys Point bridge demolition is resolved



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Follow Jennifer Bogdan on Twitterhttp://bloximages.chicago2.vip.townnews.com/pressofatlanticcity.com/content/tncms/assets/v3/editorial/d/35/d35cfed8-6a6d-11e2-b9df-001a4bcf887a/51085f88b51c0.preview-300.jpg (http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/breaking/environmental-dispute-that-threatened-beesleys-point-bridge-demolition-is-resolved/article_c0aafd0e-6c8d-11e2-a8e8-0019bb2963f4.html?mode=image&photo=0)

Barriers block the entrance point in December to the closed Beeselys Point toll bridge crossing Great Egg Harbor Bay to Somers Point.
Related Stories



Related:Closed bridge ties Beesleys Point to the quiet life (http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/news/breaking/closed-bridge-ties-beesleys-point-to-the-quiet-life/article_416e0616-4975-11e2-9246-0019bb2963f4.html)



Related Galleries

http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/content/tncms/live/editorial/editorial-core-base/resources/images/icon-collection.gif Beesleys Point
(http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/gallery/beesleys-point/collection_85b6ab22-430b-11e2-a75f-0019bb2963f4.html)Beesleys Point in Upper Township, is a quiet community that sits at the northern fringe of Cape May County on Rt 9. The town is somewhat of a large could-a-sac due to the closing years ago of the toll bridge that connected Beeselys Point to Somers Point.



Posted: Friday, February 1, 2013 8:15 pm | Updated: 8:19 pm, Fri Feb 1, 2013.
By LEE PROCIDA and JENNIFER BOGDAN Staff Writers
An issue with the environmental permitting for the construction of a Garden State Parkway bridge over Great Egg Harbor Bay has been resolved with only a minor delay to the project, officials said Friday.

The New Jersey Turnpike Authority (http://www.state.nj.us/turnpike/)’s chief engineer said Tuesday that a disagreement with the state Department of Environmental Protection (http://www.state.nj.us/dep/) could stall the project, but officials met Thursday and proposed a solution that should push the work back a month.

The Turnpike Authority now plans to award a contract for the project at its March 26 meeting.
“We were hoping to award a contract in February, but that would have required there being no issue with the permit. So we knew that was an aggressive schedule,” authority spokesman Tom Feeney said.

The agency that controls the parkway is building a new southbound span between Somers Point and Upper Township, which it expects to be complete in 2016. To make up for natural land it disturbs, the authority needs to restore or improve other natural land near the construction area.

Most of the environmental regulations will be satisfied when the authority demolishes the adjacent Beesleys Point Bridge, which has sat closed since 2004, and returns the wetlands around it to an undisturbed state.

According to the DEP, though, that work will not do enough to meet stormwater regulations: There is hardly any polluted runoff on the Beesleys Point Bridge now that no cars travel over it, so removing the bridge should make little difference.

That runs counter to the authority’s proposal.
“It’s just a matter of interpretation,” Feeney said.

On Thursday, the authority proposed creating drainage swales on the sides of the parkway to catch runoff. The DEP has not formally approved that solution, but the parties have reached an understanding that it would likely meet the standards.

“This is not like something where there are insurmountable issues, like an endangered species sitting on a lot and we can’t move it,” DEP spokesman Larry Ragonese said.

Turnpike Authority Chief Engineer Richard Raczynski brought up concerns about the situation Tuesday after the authority’s board meeting.
State Sen. Jeff Van Drew, D-Cape May, Cumberland, Atlantic, said he received a number of phone calls from stakeholders about the potential delay and discussed it with DEP Commissioner Bob Martin and Department of Transportation Commissioner James Simpson.

“This project is not stalled. It will move forward. DEP will be issuing its permits in February,” Van Drew said. “It was really a nonsensical situation.”
The seriousness of the issue may have become overblown because of other recent issues with the authority’s projects, such as tree removal for the parkway’s expansion and remediation holdups with the removal of the highway’s three traffic lights in Middle Township.

“We don’t want to get into the same frustrations with this project that we saw with the traffic lights,” he said.
Contact Lee Procida:
609-463-6712
LProcida@pressofac.com

[DarkSkies]

If you don't want to sign the petition, and have the time to send a letter, here is a great one written by Bucktail Willie......
Feel free to C&P and send in in.....but time is fleeting, so please do if if you are considering it.....thanks......



COPY OF MY LETTER TO DISTRICT ONE POLITIICANS

Senator Van Drew
Assy Albano
Assy Milam


Dear sirs,

I am writing you in regards to the Beasley Point bridge which is scheduled to be removed. While I recognize a new bridge is going up for Parkway I am asking you to look into the possibility of having a fishing access on each end of the bridge. The Upper township side is an excellent area for crabbing and the Somers Point side at Drag Island is an excellent land based area for numerous fish.

Cape May County lacks good land based fishing access and this would be an excellent area.

Turnpike Commission responsible for teardown and commission does not have South Jersey representation as far as I know and that probably would prevent any positive action in this regard .on part of commission
So as a voter in your district I am asking for your help in seeing that land based fishing access will remain in this area

[DarkSkies]

Or you could just sign the petition.......

This would be a great way for you new guys here to jump in and make a difference in a positive way.....
It's painless, and takes less than a minute of your time.......you can put as little information as you want. you can even sign anonymously if you want.....comments are not necessary unless you want to put them in there.....


Thanks for reading.....:HappyWave:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[porgy75]

Done, thanks!

[lostatsea]

done

[storminsteve]

Done thank you for making it easy dark.

[VSdreams]

done

[finchaser]

done

[williehookem]

Done

[seamonkey]

thanks for the effort. done

[cowherder]

very easy thank you for all!

[DarkSkies]

What would it be like to lose access at your Favorite Spot? :learn:





** I know a lot of us base our involvement in something, on whether we know the area, and have a personal connection to that area, or if we have fished it, or will fish it someday.......I'm sometimes guilty of this too........

The thing is, what I would like to get across to the folks out there, who don't know about drag island, or may not fish that area, to consider what it would be like if you had a favorite spot....close for you to drive to.....and you had good memories there.....put that spot in your mind and think of it as you consider whether you can help in this situation or not.....

* What would it be like for you, to lose access at your favorite spot?
* What other options would you have?
* How much of a hassle would it be for you to change your fishing to find other spots?
* Wouldn't it be a shame for you to lose a favorite spot of yours, and all the memories, simply because politicians did not take you and your fellow fishermen seriously?

[DarkSkies]

This is why when we hear of access problems that are not in our general area, I feel compelled to help....I'm grateful that others feel the same way, but we need more support in this......

My experience over the years is that a few dozen committed guys can not get it done........
Thanks for reading, all, and thanks for any additional people who can find the time to get behind this.....:viking:
(btw, 266 people have signed that already, but that is not enough....I can tell you from my experience that politicians are more inclined to lend an ear when several hundred, or thousands, of signatures appear)

** And remember, for those who have a bit more time..... This has already been mentioned....
a hand written letter, is vastly more effective to a politician than an online signature....so for those who have the time to write a letter and send via snail mail, please do it....and thanks! :upck:







More are needed......noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......
There are thousands of us surf fishermen out there......please consider signing this......it really will take less than a minute of your time......http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/wave.gif
Thanks for any support you can give. http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif


http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[storminsteve]

More are needed......noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......
There are thousands of us surf fishermen out there......please consider signing this......it really will take less than a minute of your time......http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/wave.gif
Thanks for any support you can give. http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif


http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)


It seems like it is that way every time an issue comes up ds., a small group of people get involved and the others sit on the sidelines. Come on people he made it easy for you. Just sign the damn thing!:HappyWave:

[dogfish]

done, thanks for all dark. When we have access problems at the Canal or the Cape I'm calling on you to come up and rally for us.:HappyWave:

[bababooey]

Hey y'all should just go out and buy a boat. Access problem solved. Just kidding. I will take your other suggestion and e-mail a letter to VanDrew tomorrow. thank you

[surferman]

Done! This is important especially to those of us who fish there. Thanks to dark and every body else that could help.

[buckethead]

done

[baitstealer]

done thank you

[ledhead36]

done good job ds

[storminsteve]

:clapping:Not bad dark and co, I just checked and its up to 274 already.

[DarkSkies]

This is from eelball, one of the forerunners of this movement.:clapping: :thumbsup:..he was the original guy who jumped up and refused to accept the limited access of the new plan and started threads about it.......since then many others have stepped up to the plate....but more are needed....if you can make a phone call and would like to register support that way, feel free........







"I've been hearing some rumbling that they are feeling the pressure.

Now it's time for the phone calls, letters, and e-mails."

DEP comissioner Bob martin 609-292-2885, and

Land use management assistant commisioner Marilyn Lennon 609-292-2178

[DarkSkies]

Great job so far guys and gals, more are stepping up to the plate....
275 so far.....http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/cool.gif
But more are needed......noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......
There are thousands of us surf fishermen out there......please consider signing this......it really will take less than a minute of your time......http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/wave.gif


Thanks for any support you can give. http://www.thebassbarn.com/forum/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[DarkSkies]

Here is a very easy template to C&P and e-mail or fax for those want to go that route.....posted on another site by a member named nevermoor...great job......



very well written letter posted by Nevermoor. Just re-posting it.
Feel free to C&P and fax or e-mail it in....we need to come at them from different directions for them to take notice.....
Great job everyone......

And to anyone else who is still on the fence, please consider helping....either by sending this in or signing the petition....
Once the wheels are set in motion for this and the original plans are set in stone it will be too late........








**************
You can also comment to her by fax. See below.

February 13, 2013

Marilyn Lennon, P.P.,
AICP
Assistant Commissioner
NJDEP
Land Use Management

P.O. Box 420 
Mail Code: 401-07B

Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0420 

Telephone: 609-292-2178

Fax: 609-633-0750

RE: Drag Island Access
Somers Point, NJ 08244

Dear Commissioner Lennon:

I am a resident of Atlantic County and have been regularly using the area of Drag Island for recreational purposes for all of the 40 plus years that I have lived in this area.

Recently I learned that access to Drag Island is being changed and the recreational opportunities I enjoy there will be denied.

This would seem to violate your own rules:

DEP rules and regulations.
1. Superhighways, specifically, the Garden State Parkway, New Jersey Turnpike, Atlantic City Expressway, and Interstates 76, 78, 80, 95, 276, 278, 195, 295, and 676, shall provide access as follows:. Where the proposed activity consists of maintenance, rehabilitation, reconstruction, or expansion that remains entirely within the right-of-way existing as of November 5,2012, no public access is required if there is no existing public access onsite. Any existing public access shall be maintained or equivalent public access shall be provided offsite on the waterway(s) and within the municipality(s) where the development is located.

Please review the existing proposals for the replacement of the GSP bridge at Drag Island and insure that I and many others will not lose the access we have enjoyed for years.

Sincerely,

[DarkSkies]

Thanks DS.

1. Rack and Fin radio tomorrow from 8-9 am on 97.3 espn radio.

2. I spoke to someone from the DEP yesterday. They are having a meeting today, so lets hope they get onboard now.

3. Nick, Bucktail willie, and Pat have contributed a great amoount as well.

4. Thanks fella's.

:thumbsup: :thumbsup: Thanks to ALL! Great job so far.






**Just a reminder to all in this forum that Eelball will be talking about this today on Rack and Fin radio, 97.3 ESPN.

**FishinCrazy will also be talking about SFFR.
Thanks to all......
Be sure to tune in at 8am. station 97.3.

We do need more signatures, though....please consider signing if you haven't already.......:viking:

Great job so far guys and gals, more are stepping up to the plate....
280 so far.....:clapping:
But more are needed......noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......
There are thousands of us fishermen out there......please consider signing this......it really will take less than a minute of your time......:cool:


Thanks for any support you can give. :HappyWave:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[cowherder]

Tuned in to the channel now, thanks! Signed the petition as well.

[dogfish]

Dark you need to light a fire under the asses of these folks. If it was in MA we would have had over 1000 by now. Its really not that hard to do folks. I signed it and I don't even know where it is. It's about access plain and simple. Sign its easy.

[CharlieTuna]

Dogfish asked me to sign. Done. I don't live in NJ but it is important for everyone to get involved. The next beach that is lost may be yours.

[jigfreak]

**Just a reminder to all in this forum that Eelball will be talking about this today on Rack and Fin radio, 97.3 ESPN.


Signed the petition. Listened to a little of the interview before the flea market today. Eelball did a good job.:clapping: Keep the pressure up guys.

[cowherder]

Up to 284 now come on dudes sign up!

[DarkSkies]

This is the most painless way to help...so easy....

Many have echoed the sentiments below.....


"What happens if you were to lose access at a favorite spot close to you?
What would you do?
Would you wish for help after the fact?
Or just accept it like a sheep?"

This is a chance to make a difference....you can do it.....and every signature is important.....thanks for readling....









295 so far, folks....we need more we really do..
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

Cmon folks....so close to 300.....can't you please help? :HappyWave:

[clamchucker]

I wanted to mention that I signed this. It's for a good cause. I have fished the area from a boat many times and there are a lot of people who would be affected by losing access there.

[seamonkey]

Done thank you!

[plugaholic]

done

[DarkSkies]

302 so far, folks....we need more we really do..
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)







**Just a few have been doing a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes


What folks may or may not realize is this may not happen if there is not enough momentum.
Some politicians are still on the fence about this.
There is a lot of back and forth about who is responsible, and some bureaucrats have tried to pass the buck.
IMO a big motivator for some to get involved at the political level is if they saw more folks out there who were protesting.

At some point a public meeting might be needed...and we may ask folks who really believe in this access, to stand up and be counted at a public meeting...and that would be pretty embarrasing if less than 50 people showed up....and would probably lead to this not happening......

I say this, because we really need some more support....
It is now time for those of you who can find the time, to make phone calls and send actual letters.....

For those who cannot do this, I understand, but won't you please consider showing your support by signing the petition......
It really does boil down the the amount of support we can show....and signing the petition is the most painless way.....

Thanks for reading.....:HappyWave:

[seamonkey]

I signed it. If there is a meeting let me know I will be there!

[DarkSkies]

Thanks Seamonkey....we will need folks to go these meetings when they are held....and writing letters is even more helpful.....so thanks for all those who are making that extra effort. :HappyWave:


319 so far, folks....we need more we really do..
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[hookset]

I signed too

[DarkSkies]

Thanks for any help you can give, folks....more signatures are still needed.....
we need more we really do..
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[DarkSkies]

330 so far, folks....we need more we really do..
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[DarkSkies]

There are 338 so far......

**This list will be going to Governor Christie very soon....
Can't you please help with a few more signatures? Thanks!
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[DarkSkies]

Sometimes I hate giving out my email, but finally said "F" it don't want to be on he sideline anymore waiting for someone else to take care of something. Signed and I'm going to try to get to the clean up too! Time to step and make a difference!




1. Bass Barn has several thousand members and a couple hundred sponsors BUT we can ONLY get 338 signatures on SAVING DRAG ISLAND ACCESS

2. This may not be a big issue to you BUT when State eliminates an area you fish you will get excited.
3. IF the North Jersey mafia(Turnpike Comm) continues to get it's way and the DEP keeps it's head in the sand NJ will see more in the way of shore based fishing access LOST
4. Where are the Tackle Shops on the Petition ? I only see one
5. Takes all of a 2 minutes to sign the petition,clock is ticking



Thank you surfnturf!
Bucktail Willie has put a tremendous amount of effort into this. ...it's amazing the energy he has, and has been an inspiration for the rest of us. He and a few others . the whole DIAPA group :thumbsup: are really responsible for a lot of the maneuvering that was going on behind the scenes. To be honest, I was getting a little discouraged with the small number of signatures, relative to the tens of thousands of us who fish from land, in NJ........and agree with what Bill is saying here...

Now we have a new ally, the RFA, but we really need to show more support.......


**This list has gone to Governor Christie ....but we still need to build signatures......

We are sending out this preliminary list this week in hopes of getting a meeting or some involvement from Gov. Christie...if you haven't signed already, please do it. If you can get any family members or friends to sign, please do that.....
Once the access is lost, it can not be regained.....

376 so far!
Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[DarkSkies]

Up to 405....gotta keep this momentum going......
Copy of another letter I'll be e-mailing to friends and Fishing clubs....if anyone can C&P this letter to their e-mail and do the same it would be appreciated....


I Save Drag Island Petition Drive
Did you sign the Drag Island petition yet?
Thanks for any support you can give.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

II Phone Call Drive
we are asking all who read this and want to do more than just signing a petition to **Join with us making the calls to the Governor....
1. When: Monday March 18, or any weekday from March 18-22
2. Numbers:
http://www.state.nj.us/governor/contact/ (http://www.state.nj.us/governor/contact/)

**609-777-2500 - Direct line to Gov Christie's main staff....
If we can get a few dozen to do this, it will have some impact. We do need guys to commit to this, though....





Here's a script for the call, in case anyone would like to use it
(I really feel that your own words would be better....it's more natural that way), but anyone who gets tongue tied talking with bureacrats,
feel free to use some variance of the words below...


["Hello my name is __________
I am calling about the Drag Island Access letter that was recently sent to Gov Christie.
I am one of the petition signers and just wanted voice my personal opinion why I think Gov Christie needs to look at this issue
a. Public access for outdoors people in NJ is shrinking
b. The DEP has a responsibility to maintain equal access when some is taken away or modified
c. The Public Trust Doctrine gives us the right to access these areas
d. A walkway to fish from will not be the same as the access is now.
e. I want to preserve that access for my family and generations to come. I know Gov Christie is a family man and want to ask him to do what his right for the families of sportsmen and Voters out there.

Thank you for your time, and letting me voice my opinion]







**(always try to be courteous, we could be judged by the tone of these phone calls)
Feel free to post this phone call idea on the internet to get others to help us.

remember to get this seen as effective we need at least 20-30 callers, possibly more.
Every person who can help with this, can help to make a difference, and efforts are greatly appreciated.

Thanks for reading..

** Update -
I called the Governors office this morning., spoke with one of the staffers there...Tony Terry 609-777-2500
He checked, and said they had not had the petition officially logged in as of yet.....
I confirmed that when it does come in, they will be the ones dealing with it....
I gave him an overview of the case, said that I would be calling back, and thanked him for his time.

I was courteous but assertive, left my name, and found him to be very courteous and helpful as well.......

Starting tomorrow, please call all week.....we need them to see that this is important to us, more so than just signatures on paper.....

[ledhead36]

I wanted to chime in that I fish the back bay a lot but not down there. Every year it's something or other. One year we had cops ticketing every body even though they never did that before. There are all sorts of ways to stop you from fishing. I called the gov office today too and was told the same thing you were. Will call back later on in the week. Thanks dark

[cowherder]

I wanted to chime in that I fish the back bay a lot but not down there. Every year it's something or other. One year we had cops ticketing every body even though they never did that before. There are all sorts of ways to stop you from fishing. Thanks dark

Good point and X2 on the thanks. I signed

[DarkSkies]

Thanks to all who have helped. The DIAPA is getting some press.

Today Bucktail Willie was the one who pointed out DIAPA's being mentioned in the following fishing report.....but for anyone who is asking....it is about all of us.....there is no way any one person can do this alone....anyone who feels they can help, in any way, beyond the petition, now is the time to step up....and many thanks to each and every person who has made the extra effort beyond signing that petition....the efforts of each and every person, have been an inspiration...


The article from the Fishing Line..
http://wwww.capemayherald.com/article/fishing+and+boating/rio+grande/90902-fishing+line+march+spring


The Fishing Line: March into Spring

Fishing and Boating (http://www.thebassbarn.com/articles/Community/Fishing+and+Boating) | Wed, 03/20/2013 - 1:51 pm By Carolyn Miller (http://www.thebassbarn.com/user/161)


How can it be almost the end of March when there’s so little fishing to report? In the meanwhile, there’s still plenty to think about.

The Drag Island Access Preservation Association (DIAPA), recently founded by several local interested citizens and fishermen, is a group formed and determined to fight for continued foot access to Drag Island located at the base of the Garden State Parkway and Beesley’s Point bridges in Somers Point. The State of New Jersey plans to build a new southbound Parkway bridge and demolish the Beesley’s Point Bridge in its entirety, leaving no access to Drag Island for fishermen, crabbers, folks who like to jog or walk, and nature lovers. Access has been in existence to Drag Island for 85 years since the Beesley’s Point bridge opened in 1928.

The DEP has issued permits for this project to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority. The New Jersey Coastal Rules and Regulations, Title 7, Page 204 and 205 in the New Jersey Administrative Code, specifically provide for access to be maintained involving a project of this scope. However, the plans for the project call for no foot access from the new bridge and with the complete demolishment of the Beesley’s Point bridge scheduled, all foot access to Drag Island will be forever taken away, thus violating the DEP’s own rules.

DIAPA seeks to maintain foot access by keeping opened the flat bridge that services Drag Island from Somers Point. Based on the DEP rules and the Public Trust Doctrine, the Association believes that the State has the legal responsibility to maintain access and by keeping this part of the bridge opened, the Parkway project is unaffected. The Association also has fought for the creation of a fishing pier out of the old Beesley’s Point bridge , but only for the portion of the bridge facing South from Drag Island.

If you are interested in helping save access, DIAPA has an online petition available on both the Channel 40 and bassbarn.com websites. More support is necessary to make an impact. If access to this area is taken away, the public will suffer yet another example of progress taking priority over the rights of citizens. Make your voice heard and contact the DEP, the Turnpike Authority and your local politicians and demand that access be provided to Drag Island like it has for the past 85 years. Go to http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/

[bababooey]

Looks like you guys are getting some good coverage. Keep up the good work

[DarkSkies]

Thanks, all..........

419 so far!
Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[hookedonbass]

I sighed the petition already. Just checked the petition site the number is up to 438. I heard on nj101.5 today there is an ask the governor hour at 7pm. Maybe you can call in to the governor and ask him tonight. It can't hurt.

[DarkSkies]

450 so far!
Thanks for any support you can give.
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)


Thanks all for your help and efforts.

We had a meeting last night. There are some positive things in the works. I will leave it up to some of the other members to post on them as they develop. What I am trying to do here is continue to help build that petition by increasing awareness. I am trying to raise that level of awareness to fishermen who live outside Atlantic and Cape May counties.

We have discovered that many did not know of this, hence the recent growth of the signature list. There has also been a great benefit to the RFA jumping in and asking folks to at least sign the petition. However, none of this is possible alone. Even with the support of the RFA, the main thing that will make this a real possibility, or not....is the continued and unwavering support., from each and every one of you out there....who fishes salt water and has any concern about fishing access.......














**We are trying even more avenues to get this out there so people are aware. The most important thing, to gain progress, and for politicians to be aware, is that Voters/ Fishermen are Aware, and are watching this closely.

1. I ask you voters out there, did you ever neglect to vote for someone, and the other party won?
2. Did you ever think about voting in a local election, but declined because you convinced yourself, that your vote wouldn't count?

I know there have to be folks out there, who can identify with the above sentences.....
How?
Because I have been there, and have not voted in some elections, thinking my vote would not matter.....
Shame on me.......because I have been guilty of taking the right to vote, or participate, for granted....
How many else out there have felt this way?

3. Anyone out there who thinks that one vote, signature, or phone call cannot help a cause.....
4. Anyone out there who doesn't think the vote of one person counts...

5. Please look at a country where they cannot vote....Ask yourself if you could trade places witih them, and have the limited liberties that they have, would you trade places?









**A democracy is only as good as the citizens behind it.....
We need more signatures to show more support, to show how much fishing access means, to all of us, even if some of us will never fish there....

It could be your access someone is trying to save next time.......if we lose this time, it will be much easier for other access to be taken away....which could eventually include yours.......

So thanks for reading, for helping others to see the importance of this......and for taking 2 minutes to sign the petition.......

[ledhead36]

Well Dark looks like you finally got some more publicity. Good job and keep up the good work! :clapping::clapping:

Help save Drag Island access

By Al Ristori (http://connect.nj.com/user/ajristor/posts.html)The Star-Ledger
Follow on Twitter (http://--none/)
on April 11, 2013 at 10:48 AM, updated April 11, 2013 at 11:04 AM








Access for angling is a problem throughout the state, and there's yet another threat developing to traditional access in South Jersey. Fishermen there need help in preventing the demolishing of a bridge. Their explantion follows:
The Drag Island Access Preservation Association (DIAPA), recently founded by several local interested citizens and fishermen, is a group formed and determined to fight for continued foot access to Drag Island located at the base of the Garden State Parkway and Beesley’s Point bridges in Somers Point. The State of New Jersey plans to build a new southbound Parkway bridge and demolish the Beesley’s Point Bridge in its entirety, leaving no access to Drag Island for fishermen, crabbers, folks who like to jog or walk, and nature lovers. Access has been in existence to Drag Island for 85 years since the Beesley’s Point bridge opened in 1928.

The DEP has issued permits for this project to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority. The New Jersey Coastal Rules and Regulations, Title 7, Page 204 and 205 in the New Jersey Administrative Code, specifically provide for access to be maintained involving a project of this scope. However, the plans for the project call for no foot access from the new bridge and with the complete demolishment of the Beesley’s Point bridge scheduled, all foot access to Drag Island will be forever taken away, thus violating the DEP’s own rules.

DIAPA seeks to maintain foot access by keeping opened the flat bridge that services Drag Island from Somers Point. Based on the DEP rules and the Public Trust Doctrine, the Association believes that the State has the legal responsibility to maintain access and by keeping this part of the bridge opened, the Parkway project is unaffected. The Association also has fought for the creation of a fishing pier out of the old Beesley’s Point bridge , but only for the portion of the bridge facing South from Drag Island.

If you are interested in helping save access, DIAPA has an online petition available on both the StripersAndAnglers and Bassbarn websites.. More support is necessary to make an impact. If access to this area is taken away, the public will suffer yet another example of progress taking priority over the rights of citizens. Make your voice heard and contact the DEP, the Turnpike Authority and your local politicians and demand that access be provided to Drag Island like it has for the past 85 years.

To help save this access, Go to :
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/



http://www.nj.com/shore/blogs/fishing/index.ssf/2013/04/help_save_drag_island_access.html




(and for the record, DS I did sign the petition. We could lose the same access in the bay. We already lost the jetty at the municipal harbor in Highlands. Every year there is some problem or other when the fishermen descend on Raritan Bay for the Spring. good job, brother! :clapping:)

[basshunter]

Thanks for fighting for the fishermen dark skies!

[albiealert]

Nice going keep up the good work. Fishing in Ct is pretty bad as far as access goes. I can only fish rivers, state parks, and marina areas in some harbors. As for fishing the shoreline there are so many streets that are gated or closed off it is not funny. Don't let that happen to you. I signed the petition too.

[bababooey]

DS you should start a big PR firm. What were you on, a statewide publicity campaign or something?:scared:
You also ended up in the Asbury Park Press. They gave your group a mention. Well done, now hopefully you guys will see some results from this. Nice job, Rich! :clapping: :thumbsup: :thumbsup:



Group seeks to preserve Drag Island access





http://www.app.com/article/20130412/NJSPORTS06/304120018/Group-seeks-preserve-Drag-Island-access
Group seeks to preserve Drag Island access


Apr. 11, 2013 4:31 PM |

Written by
Staff Report


A fight has been brewing over a small island at the end of the Garden State Parkway.
The Drag Island Access Preservation Association (DIAPA), is a group formed to fight for continued foot access to Drag Island, located at the base of the Garden State Parkway and Beesley’s Point Bridge in Somers Point.
The State of New Jersey plans to build a new southbound Parkway bridge and demolish the Beesley’s Point Bridge, leaving no access to Drag Island for fishermen, crabbers, jogggers and walkers. Access has been in existence to Drag Island for 85 years since the Beesley’s Point Bridge opened in 1928.

According to Rich Erickson, a member of DAIPA, the DEP is in violation of its own rules. The DEP has issued permits for this project to the New Jersey Turnpike Authority, but according to the New Jersey Coastal Rules and Regulations in the New Jersey Administrative Code, access has to be maintained involving a project of this scope. However, the plans for the project call for no foot access from the new bridge, and with the complete demolishment of the Beesley’s Point Bridge scheduled, all foot access to Drag Island will be taken away.

DIAPA seeks to maintain foot access by keeping opened the flat bridge that services Drag Island from Somers Point. Based on the DEP rules and the Public Trust Doctrine, the Association believes that the state has the legal responsibility to maintain access.
The construction of the new bridge is schedule for June.

DIAPA has an online petition available on both the StripersAndAnglers and Bassbarn websites.
To sign the petition, go to www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[cowherder]

:clapping::clapping: Nice going Rich great job hope you guys win!

[DarkSkies]

Thank you very much for the kind words, people.
I want to stress that I am only a part of this group. It really is about the group's effort and all fishermen fighting together to keep this access.

There are a lot of things going on behind the scenes,
It has been hectic and taken up a lot of our time. Some have pronounced the issue as dead. With the apathy I have seen out there, Debbie Downers and Negative Nellies have come out of the woodwork to proclaim that this issue is over and the access is already lost.

I assure you folks out there that couldn't be further from the truth. There are quite a few still pushing, making phone calls, and working the political connections that we have, to try for a peaceful resolution of this without going to court.

We are all committed to seeing a positive resolution for the fishermen here, and we will not give up.













Beyond that, I want to thank each and every person who has gotten involved.
1. Signing the petition is a fantastic way to show you care about fishermen access.
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. http://stripersandanglers.com/Forum/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)


2. Taking the time to make a phone call to the Governors office is even better.

Please take the time to call the Governor and tell him how you feel about losing access to our water. The Governor's office can be reached at
609-777-2500
or

609-292-6000

Without the support of each and every person out there, this movement would not have been possible from the start.

We have a gov't that is supposed to be of the people, by the people, and for the people.
Unfortunately, that doesn't happen, unless people from all walks of life are willing to get involved and voice their opinions.

One person cannot do much by themselves., but together as a group, we are strong.
I sincerely thank all the folks who are able to see that, and see the Future Access implications beyond Drag Island.
Give yourselves a pat on the back, you deserve it! :HappyWave:

[DarkSkies]

Rack and Fin Radio Show - with Tom Pagliaroli
http://wac.450f.edgecastcdn.net/80450F/973espn.com/files/2011/11/rack-fin.jpg?w=146&h=146&zc=1&s=0&a=t&q=89 (http://973espn.com/show/rack-n-fin-radio-with-tom-p/)Rack & Fin Radio (http://973espn.com/show/rack-n-fin-radio-with-tom-p/)

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Atlantic City’s ONLY local hunting and fishing show! Every Saturday morning, Tom P. brings you one full hour of the latest local hunting and fishing news, insider tips, techniques, and more. It’s everything you need to make your outdoor plans a success!


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************
Topic:
DIAPA Members discuss Fishermen Access at Drag Island

When:
Saturday April 13
8:00 AM

How to hear it?
1. Tune in your radio
97.3 FM Radio ESPN - available to most South Jersey Residents, and some Central Jersey residents as well depending on the reception.

2. Listen Online:
Listen Live....
http://973espn.com/listen-live/popup/

Mobile App...Listen with your I-phone or Android....
http://973espn.com/mobile/



Thanks for reading, folks!

[DarkSkies]

Can you Please help us call the Governor on Monday?


I have good information that we need to flood Governor Christie’s office with phone calls on Monday and Tuesday.
April 15 and April 16

As much as possible.

The call is as follows:

1. I am calling to support Drag Island Access.

2. I want the demolition of the Beesley’s Point bridges placed on hold pending resolution of the access issue.

3. Thank you.


Phone # for Governor Christie
609-777-2500.

609-292-6000



Can all of you please make the phone call?
Spread the word to your friends.
Please let’s try our best to do this. Thanks!!

It will only take a few minutes of your time
Remember that even if you don't know the area, or fish there, access once lost, is hardly if ever regained.
A loss for access in one area is a loss for ALL Fishermen.
The next access lost could be YOUR ACCESS.

Thanks for your support.

[J Barbosa]

Dark, it's on my todo list for Monday morning.

[cowherder]

Im calling both numbers tomorrow. Lets keep this going guys it sucks to lose access!

[ledhead36]

I called those 2 numbers today, Will call tomorrow too. Good job fellas lets help demented dark out so he can get back on the water.:HappyWave:

[DarkSkies]

Thanks to all who called. I bombarded them with calls as well.
Some great news developed, will talk more when I get a chance. :thumbsup:




We still need more signatures on the petition, so please keep doing that, and ask your friends to sign too.
Signing the petition is a fantastic way to show you care about fishermen access.
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. http://stripersandanglers.com/Forum/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)

[J Barbosa]

Signed

[hookset]

I signed and called too keep up the fight fellas!

[cowherder]

We still need more signatures on the petition, so please keep doing that, and ask your friends to sign too.
Signing the petition is a fantastic way to show you care about fishermen access.
Noticed some are signing anonymously, so if your privacy is a concern, that is an option as well.......

Thanks for any support you can give. :thumbsup:
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/s...island-access/ (http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/save-drag-island-access/)



Got some more people to sign, keep up the good work guys!

[DarkSkies]

Finally I can report a Victory...we were keeping quiet as this was in the works....
Last minute it was nerve wracking, as it did not seem like everything would fall in place....
But it finally did....here's today's press release sent in by Finchaser.....thanks pal, and for all you and the old farts, and everyone here, did to help.....:clapping: :thumbsup:







NJ ANGLERS CLAIM DRAG ISLAND VICTORY
RFA Praises State Officials For Pledging Support for Access




May 14, 2013 - South Jersey surfcasters have claimed victory at Drag Island this week after learning that efforts to preserve access rights to this historic Somers Point walk-up hotspot have proven successful.
The Drag Island Access Preservation Association (DIAPA), together with the Recreational Fishing Alliance (RFA) and its New Jersey chapter (RFA-NJ), was informed this week by Sen. Jeff Van Drew (D-Cape May) that walk-on access will continue at Drag Island once the State of New Jersey finishes completion of the new southbound Parkway bridge project at Somers Point, and that plans to completely demolish the Beesley's Point Bridge are being modified to accommodate fishermen and nature enthusiasts alike.

According to RFA executive director Jim Donofrio, the plan to preserve the access rights enjoyed by New Jersey residents for the past 85 years includes a fishing pier extension on the south side of Drag Island which will extend into Great Egg Channel, with a portion of the Beesley's Point Bridge maintained for walk-on access to Drag Island. This all comes by way of ongoing political negotiations following months of public support and letter-writing by New Jersey anglers.

"I know sometimes folks get frustrated when things don't happen in government immediately, but this is one particular access victory that would not have been possible without the efforts of government officials, both elected and those appointed, who helped fast-track this effort in Trenton," Donofrio said.

"In addition to Sen. Van Drew who has long championed angler issues in New Jersey, RFA is thankful to the folks in the Christie Administration, particularly Commissioner Bob Martin and his staff at the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) as well as the Department of Transportation (DOT) who got together and figured out a way to ensure progress with preservation," added Donofrio.

Van Drew, who originally met with anglers back in February regarding Drag Island, gave credit to DOT Commissioner Jim Simpson, DEP Commissioner Martin, and Gov. Christie for approving the project. "This couldn't have happened without them. This project caps off an extraordinary commitment they have made to South Jersey. This truly will increase public access in a way that makes sense and does not infringe on residents' property rights. Generations of fishermen and nature lovers will enjoy this spectacular area. This project is a win for residents and visitors alike," Van Drew said this week in the Atlantic City Press (http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=00120Ci_50YEJbi8O4r4rturLDQDSK6pR64Svvu6x x4MghtUywKKEYXM3UsXRXwDfUBP6L4VktqgRKcfzB9T7iMeMQ7 YpdlI6Qu6y3iiJxG740vdV4h8SJXW_sKl_N4SCjUlE9V6jmi0P zmRArFUIEZFjQSj7EYBqIfp45VOfa95YWFF80dib0khqX0f7OA A4bIrzQMF-1FoqP15XP3z2vBeb7i9L8dkblBM9IBSlYPk_M4yLgoxKUbF6de 7AVQaQjZiHwoIeeskVS_mQwMEZbHfwLGXqAkMo6bceP7EhMITj wo5JK3tyseBRsdIIy7fe-V).

"I would like to personally thank Senator Van Drew and the RFA for their tireless efforts in Trenton to ensure the enjoyment of shore based fishing and other nature related activities at Drag Island for generations to come," said founding DIAPA representative and longtime RFA member Bill Shillingford. "We are also thankful for the positive positions of the DEP and Division of Fish Game and Wildlife in preserving access to Drag Island. This is a good example of how groups working together for a common cause can get positive results."

George Bucci, a founding member of DIAPA, overjoyed at the news, said "Being local to the area and having fished Drag Island over the years and now with my children, I thought the access issue was important enough for me to get involved to preserve access for everyone for future generations to enjoy. I cannot express how happy I am about the results here."

Shillingford and Bucci both praised the efforts of another DIAPA founder, local attorney and avid angler Pat Martin. "Without his sound legal advice and insightful guidance, I am not sure we would be where we are right now."

"I am extremely pleased with the results here," Martin said. "Senator Van Drew took the time out of his busy schedule to meet with us, genuinely listened to our concerns and believed in our cause. RFA also committed to our efforts. I want to personally commend the Senator and RFA for fighting in Trenton to preserve access to Drag Island on our behalf."

RFA-NJ representative Greg O'Connell said the decision to protect public access at Drag Island may seem a minor victory for folks not familiar with this particular stretch of fishing area, but he explained that it's a huge public access win for the state's anglers. "We've had so many meetings with the DEP in recent years where we've heard the pledge of no net-loss of access, so in the grand scheme of things, the preservation of Drag Island traditions helps set a major precedent for public access in New Jersey."

The Atlantic City Press reported today that there would be parking on the Atlantic County side, which Van Drew said eventually could be expanded into "a wonderful recreation area." Van Drew noted the new southbound parkway bridge over Great Egg Harbor Bay and Drag Island will also have an additional lane for cars and a separate path for bicycles, the only bike lane on the parkway.

"With this project, we are creating a more convenient and efficient way for residents to continue to enjoy our region's beautiful coastal areas. I want to thank the anglers who worked on this issue and state officials who approached this idea with an open mind. This is what happens when we all work together for the good of the community," Van Drew said.

Van Drew also reminded anglers that this could take some time to get accomplished, perhaps a couple of years. "All the T's have not been crossed and the I's have not been dotted," Van Drew told the Atlantic City Press.

O'Connell added that RFA-NJ will continue to monitor the progress of the initiative, but added that the pledge from Van Drew and the Christie administration together is great news for all New Jersey constituents.

"At a time when the state budget was being negotiated and an ongoing DOT project was well underway, to take time to help shepherd our cause through the proper channels in Trenton is proof that government does work when the people take the time to get involved," O'Connell said.

[buckethead]

:clapping::clapping:Thank you for all the hard work, to dark and the other diapa members.

[hookset]

Nice going ds.

[wish4fish]

good work brotha man now u gotta come and hang out wit us one night that ur not so busy

[Monty]

:clapping::clapping:Thank you for all the hard work, to dark and the other diapa members.

What Buckethead said, great job dark and all who got involved :thumbsup:

[cowherder]

Dark this is getting a lot of press. Good job and thanks to all in Diapa!:clapping: :headbang:


Al Ristoris column today
"The efforts of South Jersey citizens attempting to retain access to a favorite fishing area despite a construction proposal by the state Transportation Department has been successful. The Drag Island Protective Association (DIPA), aided by the RFA and its NJ Chapter, has secured walk-on access will continue once the state completes the new Southern Parkway Bridge project at Somers Point. A portion of Beasley's Point Bridge will be maintained in order to provide that access.

A bipartisan effort by Sen. Jeff Van Drew (D-Cape May) and the Christie Administration changed the course of events. The DIPA appreciates the efforts of Commissioner Bob Martin and his staff at the DEP plus Transportation Commissioner Jim Simpson, and Gov. Chris Christie. Rich Erickson notes the special contributions of local attorney and angler Pat Martin plus George Shillingford in getting the ball rolling."

[seamonkey]

Super awesome thank you ds and the guys you took a lot of crap from some of the nay sayers. :2flip: them and I will thank you over and over each time I fish drag island. You guys rock!!!!!!!!!!!:clapping::clapping::clapping::clap ping::clapping:

[dogfish]

:clapping:good job dark and the group.