By JULIE CUNNINGHAM and CHRIS COLLINS
(Colrain, MA) – The Colrain Police Department is clarifying the situation regarding river access in that town. The span known as “10 Mile Road” is not technically closed. The nearby river is considered public space, even though the beaches leading up to the water may be privately owned. Belongings and people cannot be in posted “no trespassing” areas, but people are allowed to walk up and down to the river. Access to the water is available through the fish and wildlife property, but since the area is technically private, parking is not allowed.
Colrain Police have received numerous complaints about people using the Fish and Wildlife beaches, which are patrolled by Environmental Police. The department is looking to partner with that department for better enforcement. Police are also unable to enforce social distancing and mask violations, because now gatherings of up to 100 are allowed under Phase Three regulations in Massachusetts. Police are also making efforts to minimize trash dumping in the area.