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Closter Commission Seeks To Rebuild Trails, Keep Farm-Area Deer At Bay

CLOSTER, N.J. -- Members of the Closter Environmental Commission are working to tackle two lingering issues at Mac Bain Farm before winter strikes: deer and disappearing hiking trails. 

Mac Bain Farm in Closter is a historic landmark.

Mac Bain Farm in Closter is a historic landmark.

Photo Credit: Melissa Heule
Bobbie Bouton-Goldberg walks the grounds of Mac Bain Farm in Closter.

Bobbie Bouton-Goldberg walks the grounds of Mac Bain Farm in Closter.

Photo Credit: Melissa Heule
Bobbie Bouton-Goldberg takes a picture as a record of several fences damaged by deer in the area.

Bobbie Bouton-Goldberg takes a picture as a record of several fences damaged by deer in the area.

Photo Credit: Melissa Heule

Deer have broken through parts of a fence intended to keep them away from vegetable and herb crops. Plant overgrowth and weather conditions have worn away at the grounds of walking areas. The two areas belong to the community. 

"You can see the attempts to fix the fence, but we are looking to make estimates and repairs. If the weather's good, they may happen soon," Closter Historical Society and Commission Member Bobbie Bouton-Goldberg said.

The commission is looking into the cost of repairing the fence surrounding the five-and-a-half acre, public farming property.

It's is also working on connecting with other environmental and civic groups. Members hope the groups will help clear the public hiking trails. 

The site was originally slated to become the new grounds for Temple Emanu-El, but the house and grounds— that have a more than 100-year-old history — were saved from demolition.

"We're glad it didn't turn into another high-rise," she said. "Closter is second on a list of towns in New Jersey that have historic stone houses." 

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