FORKED RIVER

• USFDV
• Latitude: 39.8326
• Longitude: -74.1884
• US East Coast
• Marina in US

Location: US

FORKED RIVER is a notable area located in Ocean County, New Jersey, known primarily as a census-designated place within Lacey Township rather than a large commercial port. While it may not feature the extensive facilities and specifications of major maritime ports, it is well-regarded for its smaller marinas and recreational boating facilities. Here’s an overview of its features and specifications:

Location:

1. Geographic Coordinates: Approximately 39.8304° N latitude and 74.1935° W longitude.
2. Accessibility: Forked River is accessible via U.S. Route 9 and is near the Garden State Parkway, providing good connectivity for vehicular traffic.

Waterway Access:

1. Barnegat Bay: Forked River provides direct access to Barnegat Bay, one of New Jersey's largest and most popular coastal bays, which further connects to the Atlantic Ocean.
2. Forked River: The river itself leads into the bay, with accessible marinas located along its stretch.

Marinas & Facilities:

1. Marinas:

   • Several marinas cater to recreational boating and small watercraft.
   • Some prominent marinas include Southwinds Marina, Marina at Tall Oaks, and Silver Cloud Harbor Marina.

2. Boat Slips:

   • Marinas offer a variety of boat slips to accommodate vessels of different sizes.
   • Slip rentals can typically accommodate boats ranging from small recreational crafts to mid-sized yachts.

3. Services:

   • Fuel docks, boat repair services, and winter storage facilities.
   • Provisions for electricity, water hookups, and sometimes Wi-Fi access.

4. Amenities:

   • Onsite amenities often include restrooms, showers, and sometimes dining options.
   • Proximity to local restaurants, bait and tackle shops, and convenience stores.

Environmental Considerations:

1. Tidal Influences: Forked River and its marinas are subject to tidal changes, so boaters need to be aware of the local tide schedules.
2. Wildlife and Ecology: The area around Forked River and Barnegat Bay supports varied wildlife, including numerous bird species and marine life, necessitating environmental awareness and conservation efforts.

Regulations & Safety:

1. Coast Guard Station: Station Barnegat Light nearby provides maritime safety and security operations.
2. Navigation Rules: Boating is subject to U.S. Coast Guard regulations and local maritime rules.
3. Environmental Regulations: Compliance with New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) mandates is required to ensure the protection of waterways and marine habitats.

Activities:

1. Recreational Boating: Popular for day trips, sailing, and watersports.
2. Fishing: Both recreational and modest commercial fishing activities are common.
3. Tourism: Attracts tourists for its scenic views, bird watching, and water-based leisure activities.

While Forked River is not a major commercial maritime port, it provides valuable recreational and small-scale maritime services to boaters and residents, contributing to the local economy and lifestyle.