CARTERVILLE, Ill. -- The Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge has closed the Blue Heron Campground and Marina after they say an investigation is ongoing relating to missing funds and other serious allegations.
A note was posted at the site and signed at the bottom by the Refuge Manager Justin Sexton which alerts shareholders, users, campers and boat slip renters of the Blue Heron Campground and Marina that the site is closed, effective as of 12 p.m. on September 28.
The letter reads as follows...
Shareholders, Users, Campers and Boat slip renters of Blue Heron Campground and Marina:
Due to administrative and operational deficiencies, an on-going investigation with the Williamson County Sheriff's Office for missing funds, and other serious allegations, we are suspending the concession contract and temporarily closing the Blue Heron Marina and Campground, effective at noon today, September 28, 2023.
Refuge Management met yesterday, September 27, 2023, with the Blue Heron Board of Directors to discuss these matters, as well as begin a preliminary review of financial records. We will update you regarding the situation in the near future.
In the meantime, should you need access to your boat at the facility, please contact Beth Kerley at (618)998-5910 or Donovan Henry at (618)998-5942 to make arrangements.
We apologize for the inconvenience but this suspension is necessary for us to investigate these adverse actions and to protect the interests of the United States Government and the American people.
We will pass along more information once it becomes available.
