Oyster Bay Town Secures Grant for Shark Prevention Equipment

The Town of Oyster Bay announced it received a Community Revitalization Program Grant from Nassau County, effective July 13, to purchase shark‑prevention tools for its beaches. The funding will cover water‑based drones, shark shields, shark bands and additional watercraft equipment. Town Supervisor Joseph Saladino said rising shark sightings on Long Island prompted the initiative, stressing the need to protect residents while preserving marine life. The grant was supported by Nassau County legislators James Kennedy, Rose Walker and Samantha Goetz, and County Executive Bruce Blakeman. Spokeswoman Marissa Boccio explained that the shields and bands emit harmless electrical or magnetic fields and will be deployed by the town’s Parks and Public Safety departments at all Oyster Bay beaches. The equipment is intended to improve detection and deterrence without significant environmental impact.