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Wharton State Forest Trails Status
As you probably have heard, Wharton State Forest was severely impacted earlier this week by a wildfire that was started by an illegal campfire set along the Mullica River. As a result, all recreational trails along the Mullica and Batsto Rivers between Atsion and Batsto Village are closed indefinitely. This includes all hiking and mountain biking trails. In addition, the Mullica and Batsto Rivers are also closed in this area as is the Mullica River Campground.
In order for these trails and rivers to reopen to recreation, State Park Service personnel and volunteers must inspect them for hazards like downed trees and trees in danger of falling and remediate the hazards. In addition, many of the trail markings and signs were destroyed by the fire and will need to be repainted or replaced.
We're working now to get these trails inspected, remediated and open again to the public. When they are ready for recreation, we'll let you know.
Until the trails reopen, stay safe and stay off the trails.
Unfortunately working Sunday would def rather be in the woodsThe WSF mountain bike trails remain closed. The hiking trails between Batsto and Atsion remain closed Please do not ride or hike the trails.
The JORBA-Wharton Chapter has been working with forestry staff assisting them on the follow up of their post-fire assessments. We will be heading out this Sunday morning to work on several items. DM your RSVP to if you want to help. Location/time will be in the reply. Attendence is limited. You will be asked to sign a waiver. Bring appropriate footware, water, snack, and a sense of humor. Trail tools will be available. Thanks!
Ticks happen. So do deer flies...cue the chigger song Kurt...If anyone is asking about post-fire trail conditions.
The trail is summertime brushy where it didn’t burn. Trees continue to drop where it did burn. Both items are currently being addressed by the volunteers during the cooler days. The ferns seem to have enjoyed the fire and have quickly grown back thicker and taller. The deer flys are still angry. The ticks are still everywhere.
Can't make your tm on tuesday so gave your saw to jim. Says hell be in attendance...We'll be brushing back sections of the PBT this 8/16/22 Tuesday morning. If you would like to help, DM for time/location details. Thanks!
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