Did You Know?

Barnegat Bay is the largest body of water in New Jersey, holding approximately 60 billion gallons and stretching an impressive 41 miles from Bay Head in the north to Little Egg Harbor in the south.

The Bay’s watershed spans 660 square miles of woodlands and waterways, serving as a vital habitat for thousands of plant and animal species. From Pine Snakes and Diamondback Terrapins to Windowpane Flounder and Blue Claw Crabs, as well as unique flora like Swamp Pink and Eelgrass, the Bay is a living mosaic of natural wonder.

But all this incredible biodiversity—and even our own way of life—depends on a clean, healthy, and thriving Barnegat Bay.

Why Clean Water Matters

The marsh islands and wooded areas surrounding Barnegat Bay play a critical role in flood prevention, safeguarding coastal communities—an increasingly urgent need in the post-Hurricane Sandy era.

Beyond flood defense, Barnegat Bay shapes the very identity of the Jersey Shore. Its breathtaking beauty and abundant natural resources have made Ocean County one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions. The Bay attracts nearly 2 million visitors annually, supports over 500,000 jobs, and generates an estimated $80 billion in economic impact for New Jersey.

Our cherished way of life—be it fishing, boating, or simply admiring the view—relies on a clean and healthy Barnegat Bay.

How You Can Help

Barnegat Bay faces many challenges, but there are powerful ways you can make a difference.

Join Save Barnegat Bay’s Clean-Up Crew, a dedicated team of community members tackling trash on trails, streets, and shorelines. By volunteering just a little of your time each month, you can help ensure that our Bay remains clean, healthy, and beautiful for generations to come.

Together, we can protect the waters that protect us.

Be the Change

Join the Clean-Up Crew today! Let’s make an impact and keep Barnegat Bay a treasure for all to enjoy.

Alexandra Sellitsch

Alex is 27 years old and is an aspiring marine biologist who is finishing up her junior year at Stockton University. Growing up by the beach has made a significant impact on Alex’s life, which has influenced her passion for the ocean. She is an advocate for elasmobranch conservation, and enjoys getting her hands dirty in research. Alex is currently an intern with Barnegat Bay, researching pathogen influences in the bay’s water. She is also an active intern partnering with one of her professors, who is researching dual seagrass habitats in the Mullica River-Great Bay Estuary. In her spare time, Alex enjoys spending time at the beach and teaching herserself new hobbies. Hobbies that include roller skating, and surfing. Alex is also volunteering with the Berkeley Township Underwater Search and Rescue Team, and is in the process of obtaining her SCUBA certification.