State closes wildlife area after repeated abuse, litter, offroading and parties

MONROE TOWNSHIP, NJ – Police in Monroe are asking residents and visitors to stop abusing open space in the Cedar Lake Wildlife Management Area. That property, situated off Jackson Road in Monroe Township, continues to be abused and misused this spring by people partying, illegally riding off-road vehicles, littering, and illegal dumping, police said this weekend.

“This property’s intended use is for sportsmen and sportswomen engaging in prescribed outdoor activities,” police said. “Please help preserve this beautiful natural resource that we are lucky enough to have in our town. MTPD will support the state Conservation Officers in their enforcement efforts. Our officers also have the ability to issue summonses to those engaging in the unlawful activities.”

In response to the mistreatment of the WMA, the state has decided to close it for the summer.

“Sadly, as a result of the repeated issues, NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife has decided to temporarily close Cedar Like WMA completely to the public now through September 6th,” Monroe police said.

“To protect public safety and natural resources, New Jersey DEP Fish and Wildlife will close a total of six small areas within five Wildlife Management Areas in New Jersey,” the DEP said in a statement. “These areas have attracted large crowds and unauthorized activities – including swimming and off-road vehicle use — creating an unsafe environment. Signs will be posted in the closed areas and New Jersey Conservation Police Officers will be enforcing the closures.”

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