Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune is warning boaters and visitors to stay away from Browns Island and nearby waters because of the ongoing danger posed by unexploded ordnance and live-fire training exercises.
Base officials said Browns Island, located between North Onslow Beach and Bear Island along the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, remains strictly off limits to everyone, including civilians and military personnel.
Camp Lejeune warns boaters to stay away from Browns Island
“The primary safety hazards around and on Browns Island are everything from 500-pound air-delivered bombs all the way down to 25- and 40-millimeter high-explosive dual-purpose munitions,” Lt. Col. Jeffrey Cummings, director of Range Control at Camp Lejeune, said in a statement.
Officials said the restrictions apply to the island itself, nearby shorelines, surrounding waters, creeks, and tributaries.
Camp Lejeune warns boaters to stay away from Browns Island
Camp Lejeune warned that:
- Boats are prohibited from anchoring near restricted areas
- Visitors cannot disembark on any part of the island
- Bottom-disturbing activities such as clamming, crabbing, and oystering are prohibited
- Fishing with bottom-dragging nets is not allowed
Base officials emphasized that warning signs posted throughout the area must be obeyed.
“Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune wants to ensure the safety of our boating public,” Cummings said. “Civilian watercraft must never beach or drop anchor on or near restricted areas that are posted with warning signs.”
Camp Lejeune warns boaters to stay away from Browns Island
Military police and the U.S. Coast Guard regularly patrol the area, according to the release.
Violators could face federal penalties including:
- Fines up to $5,000
- Up to six months in prison
- Mandatory court appearances before a federal magistrate
The restrictions are enforced under federal regulations outlined in 33 CFR 334.440.
Camp Lejeune warns boaters to stay away from Browns Island
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Additional information about Browns Island restrictions is available through Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
