NEW BERLIN – Chenango County has a new state forest.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation has taken control of managing Hunts Pond State Park from the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), changing the site’s designation from state park to state forest.

DEC Regional Director Ken Lynch announced the transfer of responsibilities between the two state agencies Monday.

New Berlin Town Supervisor Ross P. Iannello said the move indicates a long-term arrangement to keep public activities at the park limited and confined to daytime hours. He also said the move would ensure the 250-acre facility would remain tax exempt.

Camping will still not be permitted at the park, a policy which was first implemented by the OPRHP in 2009.