Sandy shuts down wildlife refuge

MIDDLETOWN, R.I. (AP) - Federal law enforcement officials may patrol the Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge to keep visitors out of the area damaged by last week's Superstorm Sandy.

The Newport Daily News reports that the area is inaccessible to emergency vehicles because of damage to Sachuest Point Road. Refuge manager Charlie Vandemoer says several trails and access points to the water also were damaged by Sandy.

He says it's not known when the refuge will reopen to the public.

Vandemoer says public safety is a primary concern, but public access is not possible if emergency personnel can't reach visitors in an emergency.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife officials will have authority to issue tickets to trespassers.