SEAFORD – Hearns Pond dam and boat ramp, north of Seaford, will close in May for up to one year while a replacement ramp and dam are built, DNREC’s Division of Fish & Wildlife, which operates and maintains the state-owned facility, announced today.

Hearns Pond dam was overtopped and seriously damaged during storms on Aug. 11, 2001 and June 25, 2006, draining the pond and causing serious downstream flooding damage. DNREC funded a study to evaluate the condition and potential hazards of the dam and has worked with DelDOT to develop a replacement plan to bring the dam into compliance with Delaware’s Dam Safety Regulations. Upgrading the dam will also help ensure the long-term availability of the pond as a popular fishing site.

Access to the Hearns Pond boat ramp, parking lot and dam will be closed during construction. Water levels in the pond will be maintained and an historic mill at the site will be protected while the replacement dam and boat ramp are built. Exact closure dates and additional information about the project will be announced closer to the start of construction.

Boaters who regularly use Hearns Pond may opt to use Concord Pond, located approximately 3.5 miles southeast near Seaford, or Craigs Pond, located approximately 5 miles southwest near Seaford.

For more information, please call the Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914.

Media Contact: Joanna Wilson, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 46, No. 105

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