5/12/23–The bees that were observed at the Gill Road entrance to the Freedom Park Dog Park (Freedom Barks Dog Park) area are no longer present. No treatments were used.
The area was checked two times yesterday and again earlier this morning to confirm that the bees have vacated the area. The caution tape has been removed.
Please note at this time of year, ground bees and carpenter bees may be present as is their nature, but pose little threat to people and pets if left alone.
Both Medford Township and the Medford Public Schools follow an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) Program. IPM is an effective and environmentally sensitive approach to pest management that relies on a combination of common-sense practices. IPM programs use current, comprehensive information on the life cycles of pests and their interaction with the environment. This information, in combination with available pest control methods, is used to manage pest damage by the most economical means, and with the least possible hazard to people, property, pets & wildlife, and the environment.
5/11/23 — It has come to our attention that a swarm of bees is present on Medford Public School property along Gill Road that is used as one of the entrances to the Freedom Park Dog Park area. The area was cautioned taped off and the BOE was notified.
The Dog Park itself remains open. We recommend out of an abundance of caution that the main entrance to the dog park in Freedom Park be utilized until the BOE has addressed the bee situation.