DNREC Reminds Residents and Visitors That Delaware’s Annual Open Burning Ban Begins May 1
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | Division of Air Quality | Date Posted: Wednesday, April 29, 2026
Delaware’s annual open burning ban takes effect Thursday, May 1 and continues through Sept. 30 to help protect air quality during ozone season. During the statewide ban, most outdoor burning is not allowed. Cooking fires, recreational campfires and ceremonial bonfires are still permitted year-round when they use firewood, charcoal, propane, or natural gas.
DNREC, DPH Call for Heightened Tick Awareness in Delaware
Delaware Health and Social Services | Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | Division of Fish and Wildlife | Division of Public Health | Newsroom | Date Posted: Monday, April 27, 2026
As Delawareans spend more time outdoors this spring and summer, DNREC and the Division of Public Health are reminding residents to take simple steps to avoid tick bites and reduce the risk of tick-borne illness. Of particular concern with ticks now active year-round in the state are the blacklegged tick, lone star tick and American dog tick.
Fort Delaware Debuts Fort Fest for 75th Anniversary
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | Division of Parks and Recreation | Newsroom | Date Posted: Saturday, April 25, 2026
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control launched Fort Fest on April 25-26, including the dedication of a historic marker and an inaugural 5K run around Pea Patch Island.
Odessa High School FFA and Agriscience Team Wins 2026 Delaware Envirothon Championship Second Year in a Row
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | Newsroom | Date Posted: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Odessa High School celebrated earning first place for the second straight year in the 2026 Delaware Envirothon Championship today, held at Sussex Academy. Held for a milestone 30 years in the First State, Envirothon is an education competition sponsored by the DNREC, open to high school students statewide.
40th Annual Delaware Youth Fishing Tournament Set for Saturday, June 6
Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control | Division of Fish and Wildlife | Newsroom | Date Posted: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Families are invited to bring their kids out to try casting a line for a big fish in three of the First State’s freshwater public ponds when the Delaware Natural Resources Police hosts its 40th annual Youth Fishing Tournament from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Saturday, June 6 Blockhouse Pond in Sussex County, the Akridge Scout Reservation Pond in Kent County and Lums Pond in New Castle County.
