The Newtown Forest Association’s (NFA) headquarters parking area at the Holcombe Hill Preserve, 55 Great Hill Road, was heavily damaged by vandals sometime on April 8.

The damage was discovered on April 9 by the NFA caretaker.

A large informational kiosk was uprooted, then destroyed and spread onto neighboring properties. The parking area main gate was heavily damaged and is no longer operational. A spotlight that illuminates the parking area was also destroyed. In addition, the vandals left debris, stones and alcohol containers littered in the area.

Bart Smith, the NFA president, noted that the incident was “unfortunate and senseless.”

“The NFA will now be forced to divert funds that would be used for land preservation and stewardship to make the parking area to our most popular preserve safe and operational again,” said Smith.

Estimated damage is in excess of $10,000. Newtown Police have investigated, but have yet to find any suspects. Anyone with information regarding the damage of private property is asked to contact Newtown Police Department (203-426-5841 or use the Anonymous Hotline at 203-270-8888) or NFA (admin@newtownforestassociation.org or 203-270-3650).