LEWES – DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation announced today that the popular Cape Henlopen State Park campground has closed to make way for a third and final phase of improvements. Over the past three years, campground improvements have included new bathrooms and additional cabins. When the campground re-opens in June 2017, campers will see new electric hookups, a central path for pedestrian access, new walk-in sites, improved roadways and a new camp store, projects most requested by campers in recent surveys.

The total cost for this final phase is $3.5 million, half of which is covered by a federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant. The remainder comes from 2017 state bond bill funds.

“With the aid of the Federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grant, the division is in the home stretch for completing significant upgrades to all of our state park campgrounds,” said Delaware State Parks Director Ray Bivens. “This concentrated, three-year effort has brought modern bathrooms, extremely popular cabins and fewer paved surfaces to the campground, making it more eco-friendly.

“When Cape Henlopen’s campground re-opens next spring, campers can enjoy numerous improvements and amenities,” Bivens said. “Wide asphalt roads currently used for RV setups will become one lane with one-way circulation, and concrete pads added for RVs. New walk-in sites will be constructed for campers, similar to those at other popular sites including Trap and Killens Pond state parks, and a limited number of newly-constructed pull-through and drive-in campsites will include electric and water hookups. And the new camp store is an amenity that campers have long requested.”

After multiple years of construction in Cape Henlopen, Lums Pond and Killens Pond state parks, Bivens said the division is prepared to meet the wide array of needs of today’s tent, cabin and RV campers. From primitive camping with no campsite amenities, to three-point hook-up service at 70 sites in Lums Pond Pond State Park, 88 campsites with full hookup service at the North Inlet of Delaware Seashore State Park, upgrades to electric with 50-amp service in two loops at Killens Pond State Park and bathhouse renovations at Trap Pond State Park, state park campgrounds have been modernized to service the camping public.

As construction continues through the fall and winter, parks officials encourage campers to enjoy the state parks system’s other 811 campsites and 32 cabins. The variety of camping experiences in state parks runs the gamut from primitive tent camping to luxury cottages. Delaware State Parks also feature more than 100 miles of trails for hiking and biking, rivers and lakes for boating, and historic and recreational programs.

Fall foliage is especially spectacular in state parks. Campers and other parks visitors can hike the trails or kayak in Trap Pond State Park to capture a stunning spectrum of red and orange colors from the bald cypress, red maple, tupelo and sassafras trees that dot the shoreline and forests. At Killens and Lums Pond state parks, it’s the golden and red hues of the hickory, red maple and black gum that transform the woods into flames of color throughout the month of October. It’s also a great time of year to walk the coastal trails at Delaware Seashore and Cape Henlopen state parks. Campers can also enjoy walking the trails at nearby Burtons Island, Thompsons Island and Fresh Pond.

As DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation celebrates its 65th anniversary, and its winning the 2016 National Gold Medal award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, the division has measured a 19 percent increase in overnight visits from 2014 to 2015, as camping has become more popular for vacationing.

Delaware State Parks offers a list of events as well as promotional opportunities available throughout the year with weekly and seasonal discounts for campers. To take advantage of these special offers, visit destateparks.com and look for instructions to sign up for the monthly e-newsletter and weekly promotional offers. In addition, visit the website to make a reservation or call the state park call center at 1-877-98-PARKS.

Contact: Beth Shockley, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 46, No. 337

LEWES – DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation announced today that portions of the Junction & Breakwater Trail, originally constructed in 2003, will undergo repairs and renovation beginning July 11. Nearly two miles of trail surface will be restored on sections lying between Hebron Road, at the south end, and the Holland Glade pedestrian bridge on the north side of the trail. Other smaller segments of the trail will be repaired between the Hawkseye community and the Wolfe Neck parking lot trailhead.

Repairs will focus on reconstructing rough exposed rock trail sections, which will be resurfaced with stone dust to create a smooth walkable and bikeable tread. Other repairs include eliminating areas of standing water and washouts, and replacing fencing.

DNREC’s contractor on the Junction & Breakwater Trail restoration, George & Lynch Inc., will complete the project in two stages. The first stage of the work will take place from Monday, July 11 through Friday, July 15. The second stage of restoration spans Monday, July 18 – Friday, July 22. The trail will open for use Saturday, July 16 and Sunday, July 17. The Division of Parks & Recreation is putting forth trail restoration plans with a contingency for weather circumstances that could alter the contractor’s work schedule.

The Junction & Breakwater Trail and the Gordons Pond Trail are part of a 15-mile regional network linking Lewes and Rehoboth. The Junction & Breakwater Trail between Gills Neck Road and the Hawkseye community will be open continuously. Trail users also are encouraged to use the Gordons Pond Trail for recreational activities while the Junction & Breakwater Trail restoration is in progress.

This trail restoration is a cooperative project between DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation and the Federal Recreational Trails Program. For questions on this project and for up-to-date information about it, please contact Superintendent Paul Faircloth at the Cape Henlopen State Park Office, 302-645-8983.

CONTACT: Beth Shockley, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 46, No. 242

Celebration has Governor Markell joined by middle school students to cast first fishing lines of season

LEWES – Governor Jack Markell and DNREC Secretary David Small were joined today by U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Acting Assistant Director Paul Rauch, Delaware Speaker of the House Pete Schwartzkopf, other legislators and members of the community to mark the reopening of the newly-repaired 1,300-foot Cape Henlopen State Park Fishing Pier. The Governor was also joined by students from Millsboro Middle School to celebrate the pier’s reopening by casting the first fishing lines of the season from the pier. Cape Henlopen Pier reopens with Gov. Markell, local elected officials and Millsboro Middle School students celebrating

“The Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier is Delaware’s most popular recreational fishing structure, generating more than $700,000 in revenue per year for our economy,” Governor Markell said. “Our anglers, bird watchers and many other nature lovers can be outside, relax and enjoy nature. And, the pier also helps further another goal for our state – to get children outside for healthy fun, and as a way to help develop their appreciation of the environment.”

The vintage WWII landmark has been restored for the use of anglers, bird watchers and leisure visitors. The 149 pilings that support the structure have been repaired or replaced and extensive decking repairs completed.

In addition to fishing and other recreational uses, the pier creates habitat for fish and other marine life. The pier has served as a platform for events and special promotions, and its bait and tackle concessionaire is a convenience for visitors and generates income for the park.

“We are pleased that the fishing pier, the most used in the state, is reopening in time for the Memorial Day holiday,” said DNREC Secretary Small. “Our thanks to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for its contribution of more than $350,000, and our local legislators who helped bring this very popular fishing pier back to life.”

“The Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier project is a great example of the federal Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program at work,” said Paul Rauch, Acting Assistant Director of the Division of Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Anglers pay federal excise taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel, and then directly benefit as those funds are reinvested to improve access to fishing. The project demonstrates the success of this partnership among the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, fishing manufacturers, and sportsmen and women.”

The cost for repairs, decking, piles and engineering was funded by the state and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, along with contributions from Representatives Schwartzkopf, Timothy Dukes and Steve Smyk, and Senator Ernesto Lopez, through their Community Transportation Fund allotments.

“Thousands upon thousands of residents and visitors use the Cape Henlopen fishing pier every year to fish, birdwatch or just enjoy nature,” said House Speaker Schwartzkopf, whose district includes Cape Henlopen State Park. “This pier is as much a part of our community and history as any other part of the park, and I’m happy to see it restored and reopened to the public. The pier will continue to serve as a resource for all who visit the park.”

The all-wooden pier was built during World War II by the U.S. Army as a mining wharf and became state property when Cape Henlopen State Park was established in 1964. Since 2007, several rehabilitative efforts have been undertaken on the pilings beneath the pier. The T-head portion of the pier was demolished in 2012 after its deteriorated condition was thought to pose a threat to safety and navigation by DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation, which has closely monitored the condition of the pier.

“These latest repairs to the pier were vital to the continued use of this popular facility, and I hope we can continue to support similar investments in our aging infrastructure throughout our state parks,” said Ray Bivens, DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation Director. “The 6.1 million people who visit our state parks annually come because they appreciate not only the variety of our amenities and the natural beauty, but also our well managed and maintained facilities.”

“The Cape Henlopen Fishing Pier improves access to fishing and is a unique asset for anglers,” said Clark Evans with the Delaware Council on Recreational Fishing Funding. “Not only is the pier an ideal place to teach children how to fish, but it also accommodates older, less mobile anglers and those with physical disabilities.”

“I am thrilled that the Cape Henlopen Pier is back, and bringing with it visitors from near and far to enjoy Delaware’s beautiful coast,” said U.S. Senator Tom Carper. “Thanks to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for the federal funding and to the various folks in the state who provided the funds to make this happen.”

“It’s wonderful news that the scenic and functional pier will be back open for business in time for the beach season,” said U.S. Senator Chris Coons. “I applaud Governor Markell and Secretary Small for their continued investments in our state parks, and I thank the many hands who helped reconstruct the pier for the thousands of guests who flock to Cape Henlopen State Park throughout the year.”

“Cape Henlopen State Park is one of the great treasures in our state,” said U.S. Congressman John Carney. “There are many areas that Delawareans and tourists love to visit, and the fishing pier is near the top of the list. The pier attracts families who like to fish, bird watchers and many others who just enjoy being in nature. I appreciate the support and hard work of DNREC, state and local officials, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which provided funding for the project. Reopening the pier is a great way to kick off the summer, and I’m sure this will be a busy spot all season long.”

In addition to the reopening of the pier, parks officials also unveiled six new camping cabins at the Cape Henlopen State Park campground. This is in addition to six existing cabins, which have proven to be a popular success with parks visitors. The newly-dubbed “Cabin Village” is located next to the tent camping area in the park. The roadway that previously passed in front of the original six cabins has been converted into a cul-de-sac, with the new cabins encircling the roadway.

Delaware State Parks made the decision to add additional camping cabins following the success of the original six cabins during the peak of last year’s season. “With a 97 percent occupancy rate and more than 1,500 people enjoying the cabins last year, we saw a need to give more visitors the opportunity to enjoy what Cape Henlopen has to offer,” said Cape Henlopen State Park Manager Paul Faircloth. “According to last year’s numbers and the projected numbers for 2016, these cabins will allow us to host around 2,000 people throughout the peak season.”

Each new cabin is painted a different color, and several cabins feature dormers that enhance the interior space. All of the cabins are heated and air conditioned, but do not contain individual restrooms or kitchens. A bathhouse is located next to the Cabin Village, however, and each cabin has a picnic table and fire ring. The 476-square-foot cabins also feature screened porches.

More campground improvements are coming next fall. The campground will close on September 12, for the installation of electric service, improvements to the roadway and drainage systems, and construction of a camp store and laundry facility. Construction is expected to end in May 2017. The reopening of reservations for the park’s 2017 season will be announced in an e-newsletter later this summer.

At the close of the event, Gov. Markell presented a proclamation designating June 5 as “Delaware State Parks Day,” to mark the Division’s 65th anniversary. On June 5, the public can visit state parks free of charge. The proclamation also recognizes the Division’s receipt of this year’s prestigious National Gold Medal Award for excellence in park and recreation management.

Media Contacts: Beth Shockley or Melanie Rapp, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 46, No. 189

16-inch gun which fired 2,700-pound shells was mounted on USS Missouri when Japan surrendered on Sept. 2, 1945 to end the Second World War

LEWES – After wartime service in the Pacific aboard the storied “Mighty Mo” – the battleship USS Missouri – one of the ship’s nine original 16-inch guns that shook the enemy fleet with 2,700-pound shells was moved today to a permanent display within historic Fort Miles at Cape Henlopen State Park. Of yet another historic note, the big gun was mounted on the Missouri and overlooking her veranda deck when the Japanese surrender was accepted there Sept. 2, 1945, ending World War II.”Mighty Mo”‘s big gun moved to permanent resting place at Fort Miles in Cape Henlopen State Park

“The USS Missouri’s gun is an important piece of American history that will draw families and tourists to Fort Miles and the beautiful shores of Cape Henlopen State Park,” said Governor Jack Markell. “Bringing new amenities and historical treasures to our parks not only provides an economic boost to the state, but is one the reasons why Delaware State Parks was recognized nationally this year with the Gold Award as the best park system in the nation.”

Among the largest pieces of U.S. Naval artillery ever made, the 16-inch gun was saved just days before it was to be cut up for scrap and moved by barge and rail from a naval yard in Norfolk to the park by the Fort Miles Historical Association (FMHA). The FMHA raised $113,500 in private donations and received several key grants from the G.M. Foundation, Sussex County Council and the Delaware Department of Economic Development’s Division of Tourism to transport the116-ton, 66-foot-long gun barrel to Delaware.

“Mighty Mo”‘s big gun fitted into permanent resting place at Fort Miles in Cape Henlopen State Park“The spirit and dedication of the volunteers of the Fort Miles Historical Association is reminiscent of this country’s ‘Greatest Generation’ that built and manned Fort Miles and protected the region during World War II,” said DNREC Secretary David Small. “We are incredibly appreciative of the Association’s efforts to save one of the Missouri’s big guns and bring it to Cape, along with all of the other great things the group has done to restore the fort. The gun is representative of those who were stationed at Fort Miles for coastal defense. Now students, veterans, families, visitors and history buffs can relive an important part of Delaware history surrounded by the buildings and artifacts that will help make that experience come alive.”

“The Fort Miles Historical Association is proud and honored to partner with Delaware State Parks and create this final resting place for the Missouri barrel #371,” said FMHA President Gary Wray. “The barrel is the centerpiece of our Fort Miles Museum which, when completed, will be the best World War II museum inside a World War II facility in the U.S.”

A 90,000-pound concrete base, a 70,000-pound slide, a 38,500-pound yoke and other parts have been assembled in order to create a safe and appropriate gun emplacement for the historic barrel. Funding for placement of the barrel came from state appropriations through DNREC’s Division of Parks & Recreation.

At the fort today, Lockwood Company, subcontractor for the site contractor Kent Construction Co., lowered the freshly-polished barrel onto the concrete pad using a 500-ton crane. The total weight of the permanent display is more than 300 tons. The gun takes its place among other big guns already nestled among the sand dunes at Battery 519.

Fort Miles was a major operational center for U.S. coastal defenses during World War II. The Delaware River was a chief priority for defense planners because of the access it afforded to the large trade centers of Wilmington and Philadelphia. During the war, the fort was equipped with heavy guns, mine fields and searchlights for in-depth defense.

However, the growing use of long-range missiles brought an end to harbor defenses in the U.S., and by 1958, Fort Miles was no longer needed for the defense of the region. In 1964, 543 acres of the base were returned to the state of Delaware, forming the heart of Cape Henlopen State Park. In April, 2005, Fort Miles was added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The new Artillery Park at Fort Miles, which is scheduled to open this summer, will feature more big guns and include a central pathway that will display wayside exhibits that tell the story behind each gun. The park will also feature amenities commemorating the role of the fort during wartime.

The Fort Miles Historical Association is a nonprofit group whose mission is to preserve, protect and defend all aspects of Fort Miles working with community and state stakeholders and other interested parties. The association’s goal is to work as an active partner with the State of Delaware to develop the historical potential of Fort Miles.

Media Contacts: Beth Shockley or Michael Globetti, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902

Vol. 46, No. 175

The Delaware Division of the Arts is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2016 Delaware Seashore Poetry and Prose Writers’ Retreat. The retreat will be held from November 3 – 6, 2016 at the Cottages at Indian River Marina, Rehoboth Beach, Delaware and is open to Delaware residents over the age of 18, not enrolled in a degree or certificate granting educational program. The 2016 participation fee is $300, which includes room and board.

The retreat will allow writers the opportunity to write during the day, attend workshops in the evening, and have all meals provided. The workshops will be led by novelist, H.G. Carrillo, and poet, Diana Goetsch and are designed for participants to generate new work, explore craft, and learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment.

The application process is competitive, and participants will be selected based on the merit of their writing submissions. Work samples will be juried in an anonymous review process to select up to 22 attendees from the pool of applicants, split evenly between poetry and prose.