A popular beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts is implementing new safety measures for the peak summer tourist season, following a surprising string of great white shark sightings last year.
The Trustees of Reservations, the organization that manages Crane Beach, announced on Tuesday the implementation of several new measures aimed at ensuring the safety of visitors and staff.
“The safety of our visitors and staff is our top priority,” said Chris Moore, Property Director for The Trustees, in a statement. “We have worked diligently with local public safety officials, marine biologists, and state wildlife officials in preparation for the summer beach season, including staff training and several safety protocols in the event sharks return to Crane Beach this year.”
The issue stems from September 2024, when multiple juvenile great white sharks were sighted near the shore. Officials explained that an oceanic upwelling caused water temperatures to drop, pushing bait fish closer to the coast and, in turn, attracting the hunting sharks. As a result, the swimming area was closed for several weeks.
Under the enhanced protocols for 2025, the following measures will be implemented:
* **Enhanced Patrols:** The Ipswich Harbormaster and the Crane Beach lifeguard staff will routinely patrol the marked swimming area with watercraft and monitor from their elevated lifeguard chairs.
* **Sighting Response Protocol:** If a shark sighting is suspected, visitors will be asked to exit the water so officials can verify. If a sighting is confirmed, the swimming area will be closed completely for a thorough patrol.
* **Detection Technology:** At least one shark detection buoy will be installed by beach staff, the Ipswich Police Department, and marine biologists in the area where sharks were confirmed to be present in 2024.
* **New Information Channel:** Also new for 2025, all operational updates—including parking status, safety alerts, and information on greenheads—will be posted in real time to the Crane Beach voicemail, instead of on the social media platform X. Visitors can call 978-356-4354 to listen to a recorded message.
