New Barriers, More Police Patrols At Popular But Forbidden Ocean County Lake Site

MANCHESTER, NJ — Summer weather has stirred up activity at the former Heritage Minerals property in Manchester, and authorities say they are taking a number of measures to discourage people from using the site.

The 7,000-acre site, formerly known as ASARCO for the mining company that owned it decades ago, is popular with people seeking to beat the heat and hang out, in spite of deaths and serious accidents over the years, including two drownings in the summer of 2024.

Manchester Township Police Chief Antonio Ellis said there have been increasing complaints about noise disturbances and trespassing, and as a result the police department, with assistance from the Ocean County Sheriff's Office and Toms River and Berkeley police, launched coordinated enforcement at the site, bordered by Routes 37 and 70, over the weekend.

In past summers mass enforcement has resulted in hundreds of summonses being written — including 221 tickets during an enforcement effort in August 2022, but those tickets were not enough to fully discourage people from using the property.

In addition to an increased police presence, with officers at "strategic access points throughout the property," to identify trespassers and stop them, authorities also have worked with Hovnanian Enterprises, which owns the property, to take more steps to block access.

Those steps include:

• Placement of trees along unauthorized trails to obstruct passage
• Excavation of trenches to deter and disrupt vehicle access
• Installation of concrete barriers at primary entry points
• Installation of a new access gate along Bone Hill Road

"These actions are part of a broader, long-term strategy to ensure the integrity of the site and maintain safe, controlled access in line with property management protocols," the police department said.

The increased police patrols will continue throughout the summer, Ellis said.

It originally was operated by the American Smelting and Refining Company (ASARCO) before it became Heritage Minerals. Mining operations ceased in the early 1980s. As a result of years of excavation, several deep groundwater aquifers — often mistaken for recreational lakes — exist on the property.

"While these bodies of water may appear calm, they are extremely hazardous," police said. "Unlike natural lakes, they contain unstable banks, sudden drop-offs, and can reach depths of up to 90 feet. The surrounding terrain is unpredictable and not suitable for any recreational activity."

The largest aquifer is estimated to be 300 feet deep, authorities have said.

The water temperature is very cold because it is from the aquifer, and because it is mineral-laden spring water, buoyancy is reduced. Additionally, the colder water can cause a swimmer, even an accomplished one, to tire much faster.

"The Manchester Township Police Department is reminding all residents and visitors that the Heritage Minerals property is privately owned and strictly off-limits to the public," the police department said.

Unauthorized entry onto the property constitutes trespassing and poses significant safety risks. Those found trespassing may face legal penalties, including fines of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both. Any vehicles found on or within the property may be subject to impoundment.

"The Manchester Township Police Department remains committed to public safety and the protection of private property rights," the police department said.

Anyone with questions or who wishes to report suspicious activity in the area is encouraged to contact the department directly at 732- 657-6111.