Swimming off limits at Watson Pond in Taunton. Why, for how long, how about rest of park?

TAUNTON — Swimming will continue to be off limits at Watson Pond State Park until at least later this week, according to a spokesperson for the state Department of Conservation & Recreation (DCR).

Last Friday, May 31, DCR reported that the swimming area at the state park was closed due to vandalism.

The spokesperson for DCR said Monday that ropes and attached buoys indicating the designated swimming area were destroyed.

"We can't reopen the swimming area without those buoys," said the spokesperson.

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When will swimming area re-open?

The good news is the buoys are on order and are expected to arrive by Thursday, June 6, meaning the ban on swimming could be lifted at that point.

Is rest of Watson Pond State Park open?

Until then, the rest of Watson Pond State Park, including the playground, picnic areas, and pavilion, remain open.

Who committed the vandalism?

The DCR spokesperson said they couldn't discuss any details regarding an investigation into the act of vandalism or what agency is conducting the investigation.

This article originally appeared on The Taunton Daily Gazette: Swimming area at Watson Pond in Taunton closed. When will it reopen?