AUGUSTA – In response to the fatal shark attack near Bailey Island, the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry’s Bureau of Parks and Lands has restricted swimming at its coastal State Parks with beaches to waist-deep water.
On Wednesday, July 29, Popham Beach State Park lifeguards alerted the Department of Marine Resources to a possible shark spotting. Maine Marine Patrol searched the area and did not see any sharks but spotted a Moli Moli (sea sunfish) and seals feeding on fish.
Thursday, July 30, following Maine State Parks protocol, and out of an abundance of caution, DACF is activating safety measures, until further notice and subject to change without warning:
* Popham Beach State Park (in Phippsburg) is restricted to ankle-deep water access.
* Nearby Reid State Park (in Georgetown) is restricted to knee-deep water access (the lagoon at Reid State Park remains open).
* Water access at Ferry Beach State Park, in Scarborough, and Crescent Beach State Park, in Cape Elizbeth, both are limited to waist-deep water.
All other coastal Maine state parks are allowing regular water activity. Park rangers and lifeguards are working hard to make Maine’s beaches safe and enjoyable for all who use them. DACF said it appreciates park visitor understanding and cooperation.
PHOTO: Reid State Park (Maureen Milliken photo)
