It is more than ironic that during the past Fourth of July weekend here in the Upper Delaware River Valley, the life, liberty and pursuit of happiness by many of its residents was impacted, as always, by the cacophony from our local campgrounds.

The issue is not the visitors that come to our area, but rather the lack of supervision and control by the owners of these campgrounds and their employees. 

Residents should not have to be calling the state police after midnight or even before requesting the keeping of the peace and enforcement of local sound ordinances.

Whenever this becomes an issue, as it does every summer, there’s generally complaint, but also apathy born of the fact that no matter how often or how complaints are made privately or publicly, the noise pollution persists.

The Town of Cochecton, for example, has a noise ordinance that states:

“Cochecton Town Code § 240-27(B)(14) Recreational vehicles, campgrounds and RV parks:

‘No noxious or offensive activities or nuisances shall be permitted within any campground or RV park. Such nuisances shall include, but not be limited to, excessive noise; any burning which results in smoke or noxious fumes emanating beyond the property line; and any other nuisance activity which would cause impacts beyond the property line. Responsibility for meeting such requirements shall extend to occupants of campground or RV park campsites, as well as owners and operators.’”

Well, rules are rules and the law is the law, and if the campgrounds are in violation of regulations, then there has to be accountability. The campgrounds are an important part of our region’s economy. However, the quality of life and very possibly the property values  of local residents are negatively impacted by the failure of the campgrounds to enforce local regulations. 

It is July and we have several more weeks of the summer season ahead, which means several more weeks of disruptive days and nights, with shuttered windows and anything that can block the decibels from the campgrounds. 

Specifically in the Town of Cochecton, the way ahead is for a special meeting sponsored by the town, during which the current noise regulations will be elucidated and the public can make official comments in person and through Zoom.  The purpose of this meeting will be transparency and accountability, but will also be the first step in paving the path for peaceful coexistence between important local businesses and the larger community.

If, for whatever reason, the owners of the campgrounds find the existing noise regulations impossible to enforce, they might consider selling  to entities capable of doing so.

Perhaps the campgrounds can be acquired as a community asset, publicly owned facilities for the benefit of both the visitors and residents who want to enjoy the peace and pleasures of this very special place: The Upper Delaware River National Scenic and Recreation Area.

Cynthia Nash lives in Milanville, PA.