Face masks have become a necessity during the pandemic, but they also pose a new threat to local waterways, including Barnegat Bay, says Ocean County Commissioner Joseph H. Vicari. Unfortunately, disposable masks are joining single-use plastics, including bags and bottles, in storm drains, which subsequently deposit them in the bay.

“I am receiving a steady stream of reports that disposable face masks are turning up on beaches and the coastline all over Ocean County,” Vicari said.