For the past five years, the town of Milltown, nestled in Middlesex County, New Jersey, has been grappling with a peculiar conundrum: the absence of its beloved groundhog, Milltown Mel. This absence has not only left residents without a furry forecaster but has also resulted in the cancellation of their cherished Groundhog Day festivities. The reason behind this unexpected turn of events? A state law that prohibits the town from acquiring a groundhog due to concerns about rabies transmission. As a result, Russell Einbinder, the town’s dedicated wrangler, has had to deliver the disappointing news once again that the festivities will not be taking place this year.

Residents of Milltown, a close-knit community of around 7,000, have expressed their dismay over the loss of this annual tradition. For many, the Groundhog Day celebration was more than just a weather prediction event; it was a time-honored tradition that brought the community together as one big family. The joy and sense of camaraderie that the festivities brought to the town have been sorely missed in recent years.

Einbinder, who has been at the forefront of organizing the event, shared his frustration at the situation. Despite his best efforts to keep spirits high, the absence of Milltown Mel has cast a shadow over the town’s February celebrations. He recounted the success of previous years, where almost a thousand people gathered to witness the predictions of the furry prognosticator. The energy and excitement of the event were palpable, leaving a lasting impression on all those who attended.

The saga of Milltown Mel’s absence began in 2021 when the original groundhog passed away. Wranglers attempted to fill the void by bringing in a replacement groundhog from Tennessee. However, their hopes were dashed when they were forced to surrender the newcomer to state officials, citing the stringent regulations that prevented the town from keeping a groundhog on its premises. As a result, Milltown has been left without a groundhog to carry on the tradition, much to the disappointment of its residents.

Despite the setback, Einbinder remains hopeful that the state law will be amended to allow the town to once again acquire a groundhog and resume its festivities. Until then, Milltown will have to forgo its annual celebration, leaving many in the community yearning for the return of their furry friend. In the meantime, those seeking a Groundhog Day fix can visit the Essex County Turtle Back Zoo and witness Edwina the Groundhog make her weather predictions, providing a temporary reprieve for those missing the magic of Milltown Mel.