Attention: Pittsfield Parks CommissionCity Hall, 70 Allen StPittsfield, MACC: James McGrathOffice of Community Development

Recent Vandalism and Unauthorized Structures At Springside Park

In recent months, volunteers at Springside Park have found increasing evidence of illegal camping and related vandalism in different areas of the park. These have included well built fire pits and other signs of overnight occupation, some of which were presented in a report to city departments subsequent to the November 2012 volunteer clean up at the park. This activity appears to have increased drastically over the winter months, with evidence of a growing problem.

On February 28, 2013, volunteers of the Hebert Arboretum investigated reports from neighbors of the construction of some elaborate shelters recently constructed in the northeastern area of Springside Park. Two sizable structures were discovered in the vicinity of the former G.E. reservoir adjacent to Broadview Terrace. Both are extremely well constructed outdoor shelters made using freshly cut down trees lashed together and overlaid with tarps and evergreen

branches.

The smaller of the two structures (A) is located immediately behind the abandoned reservoir, obscured from view from most directions but very plainly visible from the back yard of the nearest house on Broadview, just a few yards from the fence that divides the park from this yard. This one appears to be the older of the two, approximately 2-3 months old.

The larger of the two structures (B) is located approximately

100 meters north of it and clearly visible from nearby trails. This structure has a large dug out fire-pit, and looks to be only a few weeks old based on the freshness of the cuts on the trees and branches cut to build it.

Illustration 1: Structure A

In total more than two dozen young, healthy trees, mostly conifers, have been chopped down in this area of the park for the construction of these shelters. Stumps show cuts by a combination of axes and handsaws. Significant skill and craftsmanship are apparent in the building of these structures, casting doubt on the idea that these are the work of youths building forts. Evidence of holes

dug nearby for waste further indicate that both shelters have been inhabited overnight on a number of occasions or for an extended period.

In addition to the extensive destruction of trees involved in these structures, we are additionally concerned about the possibility of continued unauthorized camping or indigent habitation in a public park and overall dangers and liabilities involved in such activity, both to the park and to the well being of individuals responsible.

We respectfully request that the Parks Commission refer this matter to law enforcement for further investigation and some increased patrolling of this area in the near future.

Sincerely,

Joe DurwinSecretary, Board of DirectorsVincent J. Hebert ArboretumPittsfield, MA

Illustration 2: Structure B