OCEAN COUNTY, NJ – All across Ocean County, ‘officers’ from the New Jersey Department of Fish and Wildlife are cracking down on illegal riding activities on state lands, impounding dozens of vehicles and issuing summonses.
Fish and Wildlife’s Conservation Police Officers from the Central Region recently focused their patrol efforts on illegal ORV use in Greenwood Forest Wildlife Management Area. On Saturday, July 25, two ATV riders attempted to flee from the officers. Once they were apprehended, the riders received summonses for criminal obstruction, interference with the duties of a Conservation Police Officer, and Wildlife Management Area use violations.
The two ATVs were impounded. On Sunday, July 26, a large group of ATV and dirt bike riders from northern New Jersey ignored the numerous “NO ATV” signs posted in the area known as the “clay holes.” In addition to violations for operating off-road vehicles and operating unregistered vehicles on the WMA, officers issued summonses for swimming, possession of alcohol, and entering a restricted area.
Thirteen ATVs and dirt bikes were impounded. Their owners are facing fines starting at $274, and impound, towing and storage fees of at least $300. Off-road vehicle enthusiasts are reminded that only registered, insured, street-legal vehicles are permitted in Wildlife Management Areas. Vehicles may only be operated on established roads and parking areas. Wildlife Management Area Information