Surfrider MA Joins Call for Expanded Surfing Access in Gloucester

22 May 2020 Update: We have been informed that due to the present CoViD-19 challenges, there will be no changes to the current surfing policy at Good Harbor Beach this Summer. However, we have received assurances that the City and key staff are ready and willing to work with the surfing community to develop plans for expanded surfing access in 2021. Stay tuned!

[Please note: The most recent update on this campaign is above! However, the original page content has been kept below for informational purposes.]

We need your help to make the case for better surfing and ocean recreation access in Gloucester! Please attend the Gloucester City Council meeting at 7PM on 25 February 2020 to show your support and/or write a letter of support to the Gloucester City Council. Click for more details on how you can help!

As an organization dedicated to protecting and enjoying the ocean, waves, and beaches, the Surfrider Foundation MA Chapter is thrilled to throw our support behind the Cape Ann Surfers Union proposal for expanded summer surfing hours at Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester, including the provision of a designated surf zone at the beach.

The Surfrider Massachusetts Chapter has submitted a letter of testimony to the Gloucester City Council, highlighting some of the important benefits that surfers bring to local communities. These include increased environmental awareness and a commitment to protecting public outdoor spaces, economic benefits to local restaurants and retailers, and improved safety for all beach users through more eyes and boards in the water.

Here's two ways that YOU can help protect and expand surf access at Good Harbor Beach in Gloucester!

1. Before 20 February 2020, please write an e-mail or letter to the Gloucester City Council sharing your support for the Cape Ann Surfers Union proposal for expanded surfing access at Good Harbor Beach.
   
   Please make sure your message includes the following:
   
   TO: Gloucester City Councilors, c/o Joanne Senos, City Clerk
   FROM: Your Full Name and Address
   SUBJECT: Cape Ann Surfers Union proposal for expanded surf hours at Good Harbor Beach - letter of support
   MESSAGE: A personal message about why you support more summer surfing hours, and how this might benefit you, your family, and the Gloucester community. It often helps to be specific and personal!
   
   Then send your message by one of the methods below:
   
   E-mail: Please send e-mails in support to the City Clerk Joanne Sanos, jsenos@gloucester-ma.gov.
   
   Postal Mail: Or you can send your letter of support via postal mail to:
   Joanne Senos
   City Clerk
   City of Gloucester
   9 Dale Avenue
   Gloucester, MA 01930
   
   
2. Attend the Gloucester City Council Meeting at 7PM on Tuesday 25 February 2020 at the Gloucester City Hall. A big turnout will be key!
   
   At this time, the Cape Ann Surfers Union is expected to make an official 15 minute presentation about their proposal, and then the floor will be opened to maximum 3-minute comments from anyone who wishes to speak.

Please contact Jardayna for more information on this campaign or to find out other ways that you can help protect and expand beach access for surfing and ocean recreation in Massachusetts.