Beach Conflicts Need Town Attention

Stories have proliferated this summer about odd encounters between a few surfing instructors and the public at Montauk’s Ditch Plain. There was a report of a fight involving a flip-flop slap to someone’s face. We have heard about teachers who suggest, sometimes aggressively, that regular surfers move away from their students. With the popular beach and parking spaces at a premium, further conflict seems inevitable — as if the members of the East Hampton Town Board, who might be asked to do something about it, need one more thing to worry about.

We have seen it in action. There’s too much of a “don’t-you-know-who-I-am” attitude among some instructors and their friends, who don’t seem to realize that being able to conduct business on public property is a gift from the town. The problems are real and not limited to Ditch Plain. 

At Accabonac and Napeague Harbors, for-profit water sports and fitness operations clog limited accesses. Rental outfits think nothing of taking up parking spaces or blocking boat launches whenever they want. Caterers cordon off large swaths of sand on many summer evenings at beaches like Atlantic Avenue and Indian Wells. Recently, we heard about a floating yoga studio, moored in yet another location. It is likely that Ditch’s instruction problem is just the beginning of a headache for officials as more residents get fed up when those who conduct business act as if they own the place.

Unfortunately, it seems that Town Hall and the East Hampton Town Trustees have been unaware of the growing trouble and much too generous when it comes to how common assets are used by money-making ventures. If they are to be allowed at all, they must be strictly managed to assure they do not interfere with others. As for surfing lessons, they should be limited to places that are far away from popular breaks like Ditch Plain in order to reduce opportunities for conflict.

Everyone needs to remember that the South Fork’s beaches and waterways are cherished spaces for residents and visitors alike to share, protect, and enjoy.