by Alex Nuti-de Biasi, for the Journal-Opinion

Oxbow says it will limit public use of its facilities after recent acts of vandalism. The administration issued the following statement on Friday:

“Unfortunately, OHS has recently experienced multiple instances of field vandalism that require significant attention. It is recommended that we limit field use to ensure the fields remain safe for our students to practice and play upon. For these reasons, we are temporarily limiting the use of our facilities and are unable to accommodate outside groups at this time to ensure we are able to move forward with pivotal games such as homecoming, cancer support games, and senior games.

“We remain committed to supporting the greater community in our shared belief that athletics are essential to the growth and health of our community’s youth.

“We truly appreciate the community’s understanding, patience, and support as we address these challenges. Thank you for your continued dedication to our young athletes.”

In November 2023, a 23-year-old Newbury man allegedly drove his pickup truck onto the fields causing extensive damage to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars.

Then, in June, a juvenile who was cited for damaging fields at Waits River Valley School also allegedly caused damage at Oxbow.