An increase in bonfires and trespassers at Mount Hope Farm has caused the management to close the gates at 6 p.m. every night. The gates had previously been left open at all hours so that residents could responsibly enjoy the privately-owned property.
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An increase in bonfires and trespassers at Mount Hope Farm has caused the management to close the gates at 6 p.m. every night. The gates had previously been left open at all hours so that residents could responsibly enjoy the privately-owned property.
Executive Director Jennifer Bristol said those days are over.
"We're doing what we need to do. I don't foresee us lifting that in the near future, if at all," Ms. Bristol said.
"I'm aware that people will be upset. This is not an easy decision to make."
It's not a decision she made lightly or in haste. The farm has seen an increasing number of trespassers during and after hours who have built fires on the grounds, brought alcohol in for drinking parties, damaged farm property and even brought guns in to hunt. None of those activities are allowed on the farm, which some residents may not realize is privately owned. The public is welcome to enjoy the grounds, but it is not public property.
Mount Hope Farm members and/or people participating in an event at Mt. Hope Farm will be given access after 6 p.m. Current members will be eligible for parking passes allowing access to parking in member designated areas.
"We are taking this step to keep the farm, its animals and guests safe and hope everyone in Bristol who treasures the farm as we do understands why this is necessary," said Mount Hope Trust President Georgina Macdonald.
The most recent example of trespassing and bonfires is one of the biggest seen at the farm. On Saturday night, April 30, farm employees discovered a massive fire pit erected on a road leading up to the back field. Built near a woodpile and surrounded on three sides by dry brush, the pit could have sent flames directly to the barnyard where the farm keeps a variety of animals, including 23 baby goats.
"There were four young people at the bonfire getting ready to set it alight when a staff person came up the road," Ms. Bristol said.
A broken beer bottle near the scene tipped off the staff, which will increase patrols on the property along with the 6 p.m. gate closing.
Mount Hope Farm members may still use the farm as they have in the past, and the public is still allowed to enjoy the property from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. More guidelines and information on membership can be found here.