MANCHESTER, N.J. — Manchester Township Police, along with multiple law enforcement partners, have launched a coordinated enforcement effort to curb trespassing and unauthorized activity at the 7,000-acre Heritage Minerals property following a spike in complaints over the July 4th weekend.
The site, formerly known as the ASARCO property, has seen increased issues with noise disturbances and public access violations. Once an active mining operation, the site is now dotted with deep, groundwater-filled pits often mistaken for recreational lakes. Police warn that the terrain is hazardous, with unstable banks, sudden drop-offs, and depths reaching up to 90 feet.
Several people have drowned at the site over the past few decades, and many others were injured in off-road vehicle crashes, according to police records.
Beginning last weekend, officers funded through enforcement grants were stationed at key access points to identify trespassers and issue penalties. Officials say this enhanced law enforcement presence will continue throughout the summer.
“To improve public safety and prevent unauthorized access,” police said, several physical security measures were implemented in collaboration with property owner Hovnanian Enterprises. These include newly installed gates, concrete barriers, obstructive tree placement along trails, and trenching to block vehicles.
The site is privately owned and remains off-limits to the public. Trespassing can result in fines up to $1,000, six months in jail, or both. Vehicles found on the property are subject to impoundment.
Authorities urge residents to report suspicious activity and remind the public of the legal and safety risks associated with entering the site.