The Use of Metal Detectors Returns to Buckroe Beach

May 19, 2008

Buckroe Beach is being re-opened to metal detector enthusiasts following a five-year period in which metal detecting had not been allowed.

The beach was closed to metal detectors in 2003 following the discovery of World War I and II-era ordnance that had appeared as a result of beach replenishment efforts. The majority of these ordnances were inert, sand-filled practice rounds.

The Army Corps of Engineers has concurred with the decision to now open the beach to metal detectors, following an analysis of data over the last five years that notes the lack of sensitive munitions in the area, past removal actions, and precautions that will be instituted during future beach replenishment activities.

The Environmental Protection Agency and the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality are also in concurrence.

Individuals who wish to participate in metal detecting will be required to view a Corps of Engineers safety video presentation that describes safety actions that should be taken in the event that a suspected ordnance is located.

Individuals who have viewed the video will be certified by the city with an identifiable badge they must display while conducting metal detecting activities.

To make arrangements to see the video, call 850-5134.