The authorities in Delaware County are making efforts to put an end to a persistent issue at Rolling Green Park located in Springfield Township. Despite the township’s recent passing of an ordinance prohibiting it, people continue to engage in skinny dipping in Darby Creek.
Anes Mahamat, among other visitors, has expressed dissatisfaction with the decrease in the overall enjoyment of Rolling Green Park. Although the park offers a serene environment for dog walkers and nature enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of Darby Creek, the recent decline in satisfaction levels has not gone unnoticed.
Mahamat from Aldan has witnessed people throwing parties with music, dancing, and even throwing things in the water. Unfortunately, these gatherings often result in leftover food and a lack of cleaning up after themselves.
Amidst the scorching heat of a summer day like Monday, individuals are naturally inclined to head towards the water to seek comfort. However, Rolling Green Park has put up signs cautioning against swimming or bathing in Darby Creek.
Some individuals are not abiding by the rules.
Anes Mahamat expressed concern over the litter left behind by visitors who frequent the area for water activities, resulting in an unsanitary environment. “I find it disheartening that a lot of people who come here don’t properly dispose of their trash,” he stated.
A photo of garbage left behind near the creek was shared by a local inhabitant.
Over the past month, Springfield Township police have received over 20 complaints concerning individuals swimming or bathing in Darby Creek. Shockingly, some reports even mention the presence of fecal matter in the creek.
James Robinson from Springfield noticed animal droppings and dog feces in the area.
Mahamat expressed that no one would like to witness feces floating in the water while swimming.
Last month, the township responded to the situation by passing a new ordinance that prohibits swimming, bathing, and even standing in the water.
If caught breaking the law, individuals could potentially be penalized with a fine of up to $300 and may even face a maximum of 90 days imprisonment.
James Byrne, the solicitor for Springfield Township, emphasized the seriousness with which the township is approaching the situation. He acknowledged the primary concern is the potential for harm to individuals, stating, “We just don’t want anybody getting hurt.”
According to Byrne, the police will be responsible for enforcing the rules. Although no citations have been given out as of yet, warnings have been issued. It’s worth noting that a citation would be considered a summary offense, as stated by Byrne.
According to some locals, the issue of individuals swimming in the creek is exaggerated.
Greg Duncan from Clifton Heights used to reside in Roxborough, Manayunk and has expressed his concerns regarding the unsanitary conditions caused by people defecating in the Wissahickon area. He believes that this activity poses a significant risk to public health and should be avoided.
No citations have been issued at this time, but officials have announced that police will increase patrols in the area to ensure safety.
Mahamat acknowledged the existing problem and expressed hope for improvement in the future. “We have to deal with it,” he said, “but with time, it could get better.”
The creek is a picturesque sight, one to be admired rather than waded into.