OTNJ believes there is a great untapped capacity for volunteer resource protection projects that the DEP has not really taken advantage of. These projects could include blocking off sensitive areas of the forest but don’t impact the roads that provide access to these locations. OTNJ and the DEP partnered on multiple protection projects, which achieve the goals of the DEP of protecting the forest, but don’t negatively impact responsible recreation.
OTNJ has partnered with the DEP on several projects over the years, including:
- Protecting Jemima Mount
- Posting informational signs at the entrances to the forest
- Protecting intermittent ponds
- Planting trees
OTNJ believes the DEP needs to take advantage of the eager volunteers to help achieve their goals rather than considering any draconian measures which impinge on responsible motorized access.