New Rules for Driving Through N.J. Forest: Penalties for Violations

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection has released a new map for Wharton State Forest, restricting vehicle access to certain areas to protect the environment. The map reduces the number of roads available for off-road vehicles, aiming to prevent damage to sensitive habitats. Violators of the new rules face fines up to $1,000, with additional penalties for environmental damage. The initiative has sparked debate between environmentalists and off-road enthusiasts, with the former supporting the restrictions to safeguard the forest's natural resources.