Litterbug Visitors Leaving Vernon Parks A Mess

VERNON, CT — The condition of at least three Vernon parks at the beginning of the week made one thing evident — some of those using the facilities weren't cleaning up after themselves. That led to an appeal from municipal officials to use the trash and recycling bins provided.

One neighbor of Valley Falls said family members witnessed "some disgusting images from what people left."

The parks that were strewn with trash after the long Memorial Day weekend included Valley Falls, Henry and Newhoca — and Newhoca wasn't even open.

Vernon Parks and Recreation Director Marty Sitler said with crowds already emerging two weeks ago, he made sure enough trash and recycling bins were at each park.

Nevertheless, trash was left behind. Two examples at Valley Falls were catering trays left on the picnic tables under the party pavilion with food still in them and plastic cups on the curb near the parking area. Folks not only had the audacity to mix ketchup with pulled pork, but they left the empty condiment bottle next to the catering trays.

Sitler said crews removed about 100 gallons of trash left Monday in Henry Park. He said visitors poached the closed beach area at Newhoca park at Bolton Lake and left trash strewn all over the sand.

"It's like that every Monday and, in the case of this week, on Tuesday," Sitler said.

Town officials are thus asking park visitors to just use the bins.

"We take great pride in our beautiful parks. Our town staff and volunteers work diligently to keep our parks, beaches and trails clean, safe, and inviting to all people. We also provide refuse containers which are emptied regularly and as needed," Vernon Town Administrator Michael Purcaro said. "We ask visitors to clean up after themselves and to use the refuse containers provided. Please leave our parks as you found them, clean and tidy, so that everyone can enjoy them."

There can be expensive consequences.

"Vernon Police regularly patrol parks," Purcaro said. "We remind people that littering on public property is against the law and carries a $319 fine."