DELAWARE WATER GAP NATIONAL RECREATION AREA – Over the last month, Park Rangers at the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area have seen an increase in vandalism and illegal dumping throughout the park, in both New Jersey and Pennsylvania, according to a post on social media.
Last year during the same time period, there were 2 cases of vandalism reported. This year, there have been 13 incidents including graffiti, broken doors and windows, cut locks, and other damage to government property, officials said.
There have also been several incidents of household trash- including furniture and building supplies- being dumped in the park. These incidents damage park resources and they take staff away from other important duties that serve the public, officials said.
“The park needs your eyes and ears to help solve and stop these crimes against the park, its resources, and the public who owns them,” officials said.
The park does utilize surveillance cameras but cameras can only capture so much, officials said.
Anyone with information can submit an anonymous tip by calling or texting the National Park Service’s Tip line at 1-888-653-009. You can also submit a tip online by clicking here or email them at nps_isb@nps.gov.
