HARMONY TOWNSHIP, NJ (Warren County) – Merrill Creek Reservoir (MCR) in Harmony Township remains temporarily closed as the ongoing presence of snow geese and confirmed cases of Avian Influenza (H5N1) continue to be a concern. This closure is part of mitigation actions aimed at preventing the spread of the virus and protecting visitors from potential exposure to sick or dead birds.
The closure, which began at the end of January and includes public access to all facilities, follows reports of sick and deceased birds at the site. MCR is working closely with state and federal wildlife agencies to manage the situation and has committed to keeping the public informed through its website and Facebook page regarding the reopening timeline.
Officials are taking these precautionary measures to limit contact with potentially infected wildlife and prevent further spread of the virus. The public is urged to avoid the area and follow updates provided by MCR.
“We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding during this time,” said MCR officials. “MCR will keep you informed about this situation and the reopening timeline through updates on our website and Facebook page.”
According to the NJDEP, as of February 21, 2025, H5N1 in New Jersey:
- Human cases: None.
- Wild birds: Confirmed detections have occurred in Warren and Salem Counties. Presumptive positive detections have occurred in Atlantic, Bergen, Burlington, Cumberland, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, and Sussex Counties.
- Poultry: Presumptive positive detection in Union County.
- Cattle/livestock: None.
