Sharks at Crane Beach in Ipswich, MA NECN [Video]

Officials say Crane Beach in Ipswich, Massachusetts, will remain closed to swimming through at least Sept. 30 as a safety precaution due to the continued presence of great white sharks in the area.

“After consulting with the Ipswich Harbormaster and marine biologist Greg Skomal this morning, The Trustees is extending the swimming closure for Crane Beach through Monday, Sept. 30,” Christopher Moore, property director for Crane Beach and Castle Hill said in a statement. “Visitor safety is our top priority. We will continue to reassess and will reopen for swimming as soon as shark activity in the area dissipates enough to be deemed safe. There will be another patrol on Friday, Sept. 27, weather permitting, or Monday, Sept. 30.”

The beach remains open for visitors who want to walk on or enjoy the beach or hike on the dune trails, he said. It will open to dog walking on Oct. …