Mahwah health board recommends signage and temporary restrictions at Lake Henry after rabid beaver capture

The Mahwah Board of Health on May 12 discussed public-safety measures after Animal Control captured a suspected rabid beaver at Lake Henry. Acting on advice from NJ Fish and Game and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Animal Control Officer Mrs. Tyler recommended posting signage and caution tape to prohibit access to the Lake Henry area for a minimum of 10–14 days.

Mrs. Tyler told the board that all known park visitors who might have been exposed have begun rabies prophylaxis and that Animal Control (Tyco) patrolled the park twice daily, captured the animal and placed cameras to monitor the area. She argued that the Board should be proactive to protect public health and reduce liability by recommending closures or signage to the Township Council.

Board members discussed using anticipated grant funds to explore a wildlife oral rabies vaccine-pod program used in other states; Mrs. Nangle proposed researching costs and training requirements for volunteers to hand-drop vaccine pods in designated wildlife areas. Ms. Cetrulo said she would investigate the program as a potential summer-intern project.

The Board recorded action items directing the Health Officer to research the wildlife vaccine program, recommend signage to Township Council, and draft a policy for temporarily closing public areas where rabid wildlife is located. The minutes show no vote to close the park immediately; the recommendations were recorded as items for follow-up.

The board also noted ongoing monitoring by Animal Control and post-exposure prophylaxis for potential human exposures.