NJDEP Starting From Scratch on Wharton State Park Closures

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) is starting over again with its plans for proposed trail closures at Wharton State Forest, the Burlington County Times reports.

In August, NJDEP unveiled a plan to ban motorized vehicles from about 225 miles of the 125,000 acre forest, according to the report. That section of the forest would remain open to hikers, bicyclists and horseback riders.

Supporters say the closures protect natural spaces and resources being damaged by Jeeps, trucks, motorcycles and off-road riding. Opponents say it doesn’t really protect the space, but it does limit access for law-abiding citizens, according to the report.

NJDEP will collect input from stakeholder groups and members of the community. The first public hearing is scheduled for Nov. 5 at Hammonton High School, according to the report.

Read more at burlingtoncountytimes.com.