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Governor’s Bay Day Scheduled for Sunday, July 25, 2010 Governor Donald L. Carcieri announced today that the annual Governor’s Bay Day celebration is scheduled for Sunday, July 25, 2010. Free parking will be available at state beaches and family friendly activities will be offered across Rhode Island. RIPTA will be offering free service on the Beach Bus Express for beach goers.
7/27/10
DEM Reports Mosquito Pool Positive for Highland J Virus
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from a mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set in the southern part of Lincoln near Lincoln Woods State Park has been confirmed positive for Highlands J Virus. The positive Highlands J result was from a Culiseta species of mosquitoes that bites birds.
Story
7/26/10
DEM: July 26 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 105 mosquito pools, or samples, from 32 traps set statewide during the week of July 12 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
7/23/10
Ozone Alert - Health Advisory - Saturday July 24 2010
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will reach unhealthy levels, especially in the southern half of Rhode Island, in the mid to late afternoon on Saturday. A very warm and humid air mass with southwest winds will be present at that time, which will lead to unhealthy air conditions.
Story
7/22/10
July 25th Great Outdoors Pursuit Event to be Held at Scarborough State Beach as Part of Governor's Bay Day
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will host its fourth event for the 2010 Great Outdoors Pursuit at Scarborough State Beach on Sunday, July 25th, Governor's Bay Day.
Story
7/22/10
DEM Announces July 29 Public Meetings to Discuss Ways to Restore Water Quality in Belleville Ponds
The Department of Environmental Management will hold a public meeting on Thursday, July 29 to discuss strategies for restoring water quality in Belleville Ponds and Belleville Upper Pond Inlet. The meeting will take place from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at North Kingstown Free Library located at 100 Boone Street in Wickford.
Story
7/20/10
DEM to Test Lifeguards for 2011 Season in August
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Parks and Recreation will administer surf and non-surf lifeguard certification tests, beginning on August 2, to certify lifeguards for the year 2011.
Story
7/19/10
DEM: July 19 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 119 mosquito pools, or samples, from 32 traps set statewide during the week of July 6 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
7/16/10
DEM, City of Warwick to Undertake Joint Effort to Remove Sea Lettuce Washing Ashore on Conimicut Beach
The Department of Environmental Management, in a joint effort with the City of Warwick, will remove and dispose of sea lettuce that has washed ashore on Conimicut Beach on Monday, July 19, beginning at 9:00 a.m. The cleanup is part of an ongoing operation to prevent hydrogen sulfide odors in the Conimicut area.
Story
7/16/10
DEM to Host Fourth Great Outdoors Pursuit Event in Conjunction With Governor's Bay Day
DEM will host the fourth event of the 2010 Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit on Sunday, July 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in conjunction with Governor's Bay Day at Scarborough State Beach South in Narragansett.
Story
7/16/10
DEM: Campers and Other Vacationers Should Use Only Local Firewood to Prevent Import of Invasive Wood-Boring Insects
As campers and other vacationers prepare for their upcoming getaways, the Department of Environmental Management is urging them to refrain from transporting firewood to and from other areas, and to use, instead, only local firewood at their campsites and summer cottages.
Story
7/14/10
Story
7/12/10
DEM: July 12 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from mosquitoes trapped on June 21 and June 28 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The results are from all 127 mosquito pools, or samples, from 21 traps set statewide during the week of June 21; and from all 89 mosquito pools, or samples, from 21 traps set statewide during the week of June 28.
Story
7/2/10
Shellfish Area 'A' in Upper Narragansett Bay to Re-Open Two Days Early as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area A in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Saturday, July 3, three days earlier than the scheduled July 7, re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Tuesday June 29, following 0.66 inches of rainfall.
Story
6/30/10
Public Invited to Free Event at Arcadia Management Area
DEM will host the third guided event of the Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit in Arcadia Management Area in Exeter on Sunday, July 11 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Story
6/30/10
Mosquito Surveillance Update - June 30
The DEM announces that test results for all 67 pools (samples) of mosquitoes trapped during the week of June 7 - 11 were negative for both West Nile Virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. One sample trapped recently in Stamford, Connecticut was positive for WNV. This is the first isolation of WNV in our region this season.
Story
6/30/10
DEM Increases Recreational Possession Limit for Bluefish
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the recreational possession limit for bluefish in Rhode Island state waters has increased from 10 fish to 15 fish per person per day, effective June 29, 2010. The action increases the possession limit in state waters to be consistent with the possession limit in federal waters.
Story
6/29/10
DEM Approves Application Submitted by RI Fluke Conservation Cooperative for Participation in 2010 Summer Flounder Sector Allocation Pilot Program
The RI Department of Environmental Management has approved the application of the Rhode Island Fluke Conservation Cooperative (RIFCC) to participate in a 26-week continuation of Rhode Island's ground-breaking summer flounder sector allocation pilot program. Eleven vessels are participating in the program this year, three more than last year.
Story
6/28/10
Shellfish Area 'A' in Upper Narragansett Bay to Re-Open Two Days Early as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area A in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Tuesday, June 29, two days earlier than the scheduled July 1 re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Wednesday, June 23 following 0.59 inches of rainfall.
Story
6/28/10
OZONE ALERT - Health Advisory - June 28, 2010
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will reach unhealthy levels, especially in central and northern Rhode Island, in the mid to late afternoon on Monday. A very hot and humid air mass is present over the northeast, which means unhealthy air conditions will probably last until late evening on Monday. The poor air quality is due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations. Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.
Story
6/25/10
DEM Stocking American Shad Fry in the Pawcatuck River
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will be stocking 240,000 American shad fry into the Pawcatuck River as part of its shad restoration efforts.
Story
6/18/10
Shellfish Area 'A' in Upper Narragansett Bay to Re-Open Two Days Early as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area A in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Saturday, June 19, two days earlier than the scheduled June 21 re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Saturday, June 12 following 0.72 inches of rainfall.
Story
6/17/10
DEM Environmental Police Officers to Conduct Operation Dry Water Boat Patrols June 25 to June 27 to Enforce Boating Under the Influence Law
Safe boating patrols will be stepped up on June 25 to June 27 in a joint operation conducted by the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Law Enforcement and US Coast Guard Units from Castle Hill and Point Judith. The effort is part of Operation Dry Water, a coordinated national weekend of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) detection and enforcement. It is aimed at reducing the number of alcohol-related accidents and fatalities, and fostering a stronger and more visible deterrent to alcohol use on the water.
Story
6/11/10
Shellfish Area 'B' in Upper Narragansett Bay to Re-Open One Day Early as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area B in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Saturday, June12, one day earlier than the scheduled June 13th re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Saturday, June 5 following 1.25 inches of rainfall.
Story
6/11/10
DEM Urges Rhode Islanders to Leave Young Wildlife Alone; "HELP" Actually Hinders — and Rabies Remains Prevalent
The Department of Environmental Management reminds Rhode Islanders that rabies remains prevalent throughout the state and that they should take sensible precautions, such as staying away from wildlife, vaccinating pets, securing garbage, and not leaving pet food outside.
Story
6/10/10
June 13TH Great Outdoors Pursuit Event Offers Opportunity to Climb Beavertail Lighthouse
The event will feature kids and their families climbing the Beavertail Lighthouse (not normally open to the public), exploring the tidal pools and coastal vegetation of the park, flying kites, searching the grounds for clues about the history of the park, and playing old-fashion lawn games. A full list of activities and schedule appears below.
Story
6/8/10
Public Invited to Climb Fire Tower at Chopmist Forestry Headquarters
The Department of Environmental Management announces that on Saturday, June 12, the public is invited to climb the fire tower at the Division of Forest Environment's Chopmist Headquarters at 1037 Hartford Pike (Route 101) in North Scituate.
Story
6/8/10
DEM Asks for Information on Wild Turkey Brood Sightings
The Department of Environmental Management is asking Rhode Islanders to assist its Division of Fish and Wildlife's wild turkey project by reporting any sightings of wild turkey hens with (or without) broods of young turkeys (poults). DEM biologists need the information to evaluate this year's reproduction of wild turkeys, the survival of the young, and the population of the state's wild turkey flock.
Story
6/7/10
DEM'S Seasonal Bay Line Telephone Information Line Provides Weekly Updates on Water Quality in Narragansett Bay
The Department of Environmental Management announces that its seasonal 24-hour Bay Line telephone information line is now open. The Bay Line number, 222-8888, is toll-free within the state.
Story
6/7/10
Public Invited to Free Events at Two DEM Locations in North Scituate and Jamestown
The Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit continues next weekend with two events that are free and open to the public.
Story
6/4/10
DEM Announces New Date for Re-Opening of 120-Acre South of Conimicut Point to Shellfishing
The Department of Environmental Management announces that a 120-acre triangle-shaped area in Upper Narragansett Bay, south of Conimicut Point, that had been scheduled to be conditionally re-opened to shellfishing on June 24, will open at sunrise on Thursday, June 10.
Story
5/27/10
DEM Announces New Date for Public Hearing on Hunting, Freshwater Fishing, & Parks and Management Area Regulations
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, June 30 at 7 p.m. in the Warwick Police Department's Community Room at 99 Veteran's Memorial Drive on the proposed 2011-2012 freshwater fishing seasons and the 2010-2011 hunting seasons and bag limits. In addition, proposed changes to the Parks and Management Area Regulations will also be heard.
Story
5/26/10
DEM Announces Annual Reclassification of Shellfish Waters and Seasonal Shellfish that Take Effect on May 29
The Department of Environmental Management announces that seasonal shellfish closures will take effect at sunrise Saturday, May 29. Consistent with US Food and Drug Agency requirements, DEM closes these areas to the harvesting of shellfish every year at this time due to potential water quality impacts associated with marinas and mooring fields. These areas will re-open to shellfish harvesting at sunrise on Tuesday, October 12. The areas seasonally closed to shellfish harvesting include waters within the following areas: Block Island (Great Salt Pond), Bristol Harbor, Jamestown (Dutch Harbor area), Potter Cove (Prudence Island), Sakonnet Harbor, Wickford Harbor (Fishing Cove), Coastal Shore Ponds and the Kickemuit River.
Story
5/26/10
DEM Charges Operator of Vessel Involved in Fatal Boating Collision on Despair Island with Five Felony Counts
The Department of Environmental Management today filed six charges against the operator of the vessel involved in the May 16 early-morning fatal boating collision on Despair Island.
Story
5/24/10
DEM Hosts Rinnon-Cutting Ceremony for New Energy-Efficient Bath House with Wind Turbine at Salty Brine State Beach
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, PhD today joined Governor Donald Carcieri, Senator Jack Reed, Congressman Jim Langevin, Wally Brine, Jr., state and federal officials at a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new bath house and wind turbine at Salty Brine State Beach in Narragansett.
Story
5/20/10
RI Great Outdoors Pursuit Kickoff this Sunday at Lincoln Woods
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management will launch the 2010 Great Outdoors Pursuit at Lincoln Woods on Sunday, May 23rd from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The event, presented by United Healthcare, will feature health screenings and appearances by Dr. Health E. Hound, a healthy cooking demonstration by Kid's First RI, rock climbing, kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, a trout stocking demonstration, tree identification, and old-fashion lawn games. A full list of activities appears here.
Story
5/19/10
DEM to Hold Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony for New Bath House and Wind Turbine at Salty Brine State Beach on May 24
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, Ph.D., along with Governor Donald Carcieri, Senator Jack Reed, and Congressman Jim Langevin will participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new handicap-accessible, energy efficient bath house and wind turbine at Salty Brine State Beach in Narragansett at 11a.m. Monday, May 24.
Story
5/17/10
DEM Identifies Victims of Sunday Morning Fatal Boating Collision on Despair Island
The Department of Environmental Management has identified the two victims of Sunday's early-morning fatal boating collision on Despair Island.
Story
5/14/10
DEM to COnduct Lifeguard Certification Testing May 26 and 27
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Parks and Recreation will administer conditional Non-Surf and Surf Lifeguard Certification tests on Wednesday, May 26 and Thursday, May 27, and again next month.
Story
5/13/10
DEM Announces that Team Registration is Underway for the 2010 RHODE ISLAND GREAT OUTDOORS PURSUIT
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management announces the launch of the 2010 Great Outdoors Pursuit, a summer-long program to help children and their families enjoy the recreational resources and outdoor activities our state parks have to offer to encourage more physical activity.
Story
5/11/10
DEM to Hold Two Public Workshops on Proposed Rules to Implement RI Cesspool Act
The Department of Environmental Management will hold two workshops for the public this month on proposed revisions to the state's onsite wastewater treatment system (septic system) regulations.
Story
5/10/10
Governor Carcieri, DEM, Business Leaders and Farmers to Celebrate Rhode Island Agriculture Day in State House Festivities on Thursday, May 13
To recognize the importance of the state's $100+ million agriculture industry, the Department of Environmental Management will host Rhode Island Agriculture Day at the State House on Thursday, May 13.
Story
5/4/10
DEM Announces Opening of FOur Weekly Farmers Markets at State Parks this Week; Other Markets at State Facilities Slated to Open in Mid-July
The Department of Environmental Management announces that four farmers' markets located in state parks will open on a weekly basis beginning this week. For the first few weeks, the popular markets primarily will offer bedding plants, hanging plants, cut flowers, early vegetable crops, honey, and maple syrup. As traditional local summer crops become available, more vendors will participate.
Story
5/4/10
DEM to Hold Public Workshops on May 11 and May 13 on Proposed Hunting and Freshwater Fishing & Parks and Management Area Regulations
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will hold public workshops to discuss the proposed 2010-2011 freshwater fishing seasons and the 2010-2011 hunting seasons and bag limits on Tuesday, May 11 and Thursday, May 13 from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The May 11 workshop will be held at the Tiverton Rod and Gun Club located at 1529 Fish Road in Tiverton, and the May 13 workshop will take place in Room 300 at DEM Headquarters located at 235 Promenade Street in Providence.
Story
4/30/10
DEM Announces 2010 Arbor Day Grants
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, PhD announced this year's America the Beautiful tree planting grants at the state Arbor Day program held today at Central Falls High School. The grants will result in the planting of over 130 trees throughout much of the state. In the past 19 years, DEM's Division of Forest Environment has awarded more than $2.25 million in America the Beautiful grants, matched by over $3.6 million in local funds.
Story
4/30/10
DEM Announces Weekend Opening of State Beaches Beginning on Saturday, May 8
The Department of Environmental Management announces that state beaches in South County will be open weekends from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. beginning on Saturday, May 8. Scarborough North, Roger Wheeler, and Misquamicut state beaches will be open Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting, from May 8 until Memorial Day to accommodate early beach-goers and advance season pass sales. All state beaches will be open on a daily basis from Memorial Day, the traditional start of the summer outdoor recreation season, until Labor Day.
Story
4/27/10
DEM Announces Free Fishing Days May 8 and 9
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Saturday, May 8 and Sunday, May 9 are free fishing days in Rhode Island. During those two days, all Rhode Islanders and visitors can fish in freshwaters without a fishing license or trout conservation stamp. The free fishing days provide local residents and visitors a special incentive to get outdoors and try something new while enjoying their natural surroundings.
Story
4/27/10
DEM to Hold State Arbor Day Ceremony on Friday, April 30
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the Rhode Island Arbor Day ceremony will be held this year on Friday, April 30 at Central Falls High School located at 24 Summer Street.
Story
4/23/10
DEM Environment Police and US Coast Guard find Point Judith Commercial Fishing Vessel using Illegal Gillnet
On April 21 environmental police officers from the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Law Enforcement, while on a joint patrol with officers from the US Coast Guard Station Point Judith, seized illegally marked gillnets from the commercial fishing vessel F/V Tiger Jo as it was fishing gillnets approximately one mile southeast of Block Island.
Story
4/23/10
DEM Now Stocking Trout in Several Popular Fishing Locations
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife is now stocking trout in several locations including some that were not stocked for opening day of the 2010 trout fishing season due to impacts from the March floods.
Story
4/21/10
DEM Issues Alert to Horse Owners, Others About Contagious Equine Virus Outbreak in Neighboring State
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture is alerting horse owners, breeders, and veterinarians about recent incidents of contagious equine virus in Massachusetts and New Jersey. According to Rhode Island state veterinarian Scott Marshall, DVM, there have been no reports of horses with the virus in the Ocean State.
Story
4/16/10
DEM Announces that Conditional Area A, Mount Hope Bay & Kickemuit River will Re-Open to Shellfish Harvesting on April 17
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the conditionally approved waters of the Upper Bay Conditional Area A, Mount Hope Bay and Kickemuit River will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow (Saturday, April 17th). DEM's decision to reopen these areas is based on test results from sampling done by staff earlier in the week. Delineations of those areas approved for shellfishing are included in the Notice of Polluted Shellfish Grounds May 2009, amended October 2009.
Story
4/16/10
DEM Announces Changes to Marine Fisheries Regulations
The Department of Environmental Management has filed new regulations enacting a series of changes in seasons, minimum sizes, possession limits, and gear restrictions pertaining to several recreational and commercial fisheries in Rhode Island. The new regulations govern the upcoming 2010 recreational fishing season for: summer flounder, black sea bass, scup, and weakfish (there are no changes for striped bass or tautog); and for the upcoming 2010 commercial fishing season for menhaden, weakfish, and floating fish traps.
Story
4/16/10
DEM Announces Emergency Regulations to Extend Access to Shellfish Management Areas
The Department of Environmental Management has enacted emergency regulations that extend access to several shellfish management areas in Narragansett Bay over the next two weeks. The regulations take effect on Monday, April 19 and will remain in effect through Friday, April 30.
Story
4/15/10
DEM Announces Availability of New Recreational Saltwater Fishing License
Rhode Island's new Recreational Saltwater Fishing License is now available. The license is available via a simple, user-friendly website: www.saltwater.ri.gov.
Story
4/14/10
DEM Announces that the Cove in Portsmouth will Re-Open to Shellfish Harvesting on April 15
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the Cove in Portsmouth (described by the waters north of a line from the southern end of Hummock Point to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management range marker located at the eastern extremity of a point of land on the western shore of the cove) will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow (Thursday, April 15th). DEM's decision to reopen this area is based on test results from sampling done by staff on Tuesday.
Story
4/13/10
DEM Plans for Quahog Transplants, seeks Shellfishermen to Participate
Beginning on Monday, May 3, the Department of Environmental Management will conduct four quahog transplants to transfer an estimated 450,000 pounds of adult quahogs from high shellfish density areas in Narragansett Bay to shellfish management areas and shellfish spawner sanctuaries.
Story
4/9/10
DEM Announces that Greenwich Bay and Conditional Area B Re-Open to Shellfish Harvesting on April 10
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the conditionally approved waters of Greenwich Bay and Upper Bay Conditional Area B will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow (Saturday, April 10th). DEM's decision to reopen those areas is based on test results from sampling done by staff on Thursday. Delineations of those areas approved for shellfishing are included in the Notice of Polluted Shellfish Grounds May 2009, amended October 2009. Available on the Department's website at: www.dem.ri.gov/maps/mapfile/shellfsh.pdf.
Story
4/9/10
Westerly to Apply Mosquito Larvicide to Swamp Areas on Monday April 12 in Yearly
The Town of Westerly, as it has done on a routine basis each year since 1997, will apply granules of mosquito larvicide by helicopter to 500 acres of swamp to control mosquito breeding. The targeted areas are portions of Chapman's Swamp and the swamp area adjacent to Hespar Drive. The town is notifying adjacent landowners of its intent, as well as the general public, that it plans to apply the larvicide on Monday, April 12, between 7 a.m. and 2 p.m. The larvicide may also be applied on future dates after notification by the town.
Story
4/9/10
Volunteers to Receive Hands-On Training in Helping Animals During Emergency Situations at April 18
The Department of Environmental Management is encouraging those interested in helping animals in emergency situations to participate in a free, hands-on training session scheduled for Sunday, April 18 at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick. The program is sponsored by the Rhode Island Disaster Animal Response Team (RIDART), with support from DEM.
Story
4/7/10
DEM Offers Advice on Cleaning Up Recreational Fields Impacted by Flooding from Urban Waters
The Department of Environmental Management is advising recreational program directors to liberally apply lime to fields impacted by urban river flooding to speed the natural clean up processes. Standard agricultural limestone should be used at a rate of at least 250 pounds per 1000 ft2. If finer grade limestone or hydrated lime is available then rates may be reduced. The addition of nitrogen fertilizer sources such as urea (2 pounds per 1000 ft2) at the same time will cause the generation of ammonia gas that will have pathogen reduction value as well.
Story
4/7/10
DEM Announces that on April 8th all Approved Waters for Shellfish Harvesting will Reopen, with the Exception of the Cove in Portsmouth
The Department of Environmental Management announces that all waters previously designated as approved for shellfish harvesting, with the exception of the northern half of the Cove located in Portsmouth will open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow - Thursday, April 8. DEM's decision to reopen those areas is based on test results from sampling done by staff on Tuesday.
Story
4/7/10
DEM Urges the Public to Exercise Caution on Opening Day of Fishing Season this Saturday, April 10
The Department of Environmental Management is advising anglers that are expected to turn out at dawn Saturday – the opening day of the 2010 trout and general freshwater fishing season – to exercise personal safety precautions while in pursuit of the season's first trout.
Story
4/6/10
DEM Announces Re-Opening of Southern Waters of Narragansett Bay and Point Judith and Potters Ponds for Shellfish Harvesting on April 7th Following Emergency Closure Enacted last week Due to Excessive Rainfall
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Pt. Judith Pond and Potters Pond waters and southern waters of Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow, Wednesday, April 7. DEM's decision to reopen those areas is based on test results from sampling done by staff on Monday.
Story
4/6/10
DEM Awards Grants for 2010 Earth Day Cleanups and Beautification Projects
In celebration of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, the Department of Environmental Management has awarded a total of $37,463 for 63 Earth Day grants to cleanup and beautification organizers in non-profit organizations and municipalities throughout the state. Funding for these grants is being provided by Patriot Disposal Co. Inc./J.R. Vinagro Corporation of Johnston.
Story
4/5/10
DEM Confirms Recovery of Missing Shellfisherman's Body
The Department of Environmental Management has confirmed that the body of a missing shellfisherman was recovered Saturday from the waters of Narragansett Bay off the boat ramp at the end of Samuel Gorton Avenue in Warwick after a passerby had observed it. The Department received notification today from the RI Medical Examiner's Office that the recovered body was identified as 48 year-old Chester Kidd of 5 Gough Ave. in West Warwick.
Story
4/5/10
DEM'S Office of Customer and Technical Assistance (OCTA) is Post-Flood Point of Contact for Environmental Inquiries from Residents and Businesses
The Department of Environmental Management today advised the public that its Office of Customer and Technical Assistance (OCTA) is the primary point-of-contact at DEM for residents and businesses that have environmental permitting or compliance assistance questions in the wake of this week's flooding events.
Story
4/2/10
DEM Announces that most South County Coastal Shore Ponds will Reopen for Shellfish Harvesting on April 3rd Following Emergency Closure Enacted this week due to Excessive Rainfall
The Department of Environmental Management announces that several South County coastal pond waters will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow (Saturday, April 3rd.) DEM's decision to reopen those areas is based on test results from sampling done by staff on Thursday.
Story
4/2/10
DEM Seeks Sewer Users' Help in Reducing Further Basement Backups and Overflows of Raw Sewage
The Department of Environmental Management is again urging users of public sewers to take steps to help prevent further discharges of raw sewage from over-taxed sewer collection systems which continue to see elevated flow levels throughout the state.
Story
4/1/10
Proper Procedures Critical for Cleanup of Indoor Fuel Spills from Flood Waters
The Department of Environmental Management today advised the public that extreme care should be taken in properly cleaning and disposing of oil soaked items that may have been damaged or impacted by flood waters.
Story
4/1/10
Residents Urged to Properly Dispose of Household Hazardous Wastes
The Department of Environmental Management today advised the public that extreme care should be taken in properly disposing of household hazardous waste items that may have been damaged or impacted by flood waters.
Story
3/31/10
Reduce Water/Sewer use in Flooded Areas; all Connections of Basement Sump Pumps to Sanitary Sewer Systems are Illegal
At the request of local communities, the Department of Environmental Management reminds state residents that the discharge of sump pumps and roof down spouts into sanitary sewer systems are illegal. Per a long-standing rule of the state’s water quality regulations, "no person shall discharge storm water, gutter runoff, sump discharges, or street runoff to a treatment works designed to receive only wastewater." This prohibition is in place to prevent or minimize the overflow of raw sewage, and so protect public health and the environment.
Story
3/30/10
DEM Announces Extensive Areas of State Waters Closed to Shellfishing
The Department of Environmental Management announces that due to extreme sewage overflows and flood induced failures at wastewater treatment facilities experienced during the recent heavy rainfall, most bay waters of the state and all south coastal ponds are closed to shellfishing until further notice.
Story
3/30/10
West Warwick Wastewater Treatment Facility at Imminent Risk of Flooding - Plant Evacuated - Downstream, Warwick at Risk of Flooding - Evacuation Planning Underway
The Department of Environmental Management has learned that the West Warwick WWTF in the Natick section of town is experiencing major flooding issues from unprecedented levels of the Pawtuxet River. As of noon the facility's operations building had begun to flood, prompting evacuation of plant staff. By the 12:45 PM major plant processing units were underwater. The plant's main electrical "switch gear" is nearly under water and plant officials anticipate having to run under generator power soon.
Story
3/30/10
DEM Issues Advisory: Local Flood Waters may be Contaminated by Sanitary Sewage
The Department of Environmental Management today advised the public that a particular danger of current standing flood waters is the contamination of sanitary sewage that could have overflowed from flooded sewage collection lines, pumping stations, or treatment facilities.
Story
3/26/10
DEM Announces that Most South County Coastal Shore Ponds will Reopen for Shellfishing Harvesting on March 27 Following Emergency Closure Enacted this Week due to Excessive Rainfall
The Department of Environmental Management announces that several South County coastal pond waters will re-open to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise tomorrow (Saturday, March 27.) DEM's decision to reopen those areas is based on test results from extensive sampling done by staff on Thursday.
Story
3/24/10
DEM Announces New Emergency Closure of Shellfishing Areas in Coastal Shore ponds, Bristol Harbor, and Jamestowns Mackerel Cove and Dutch Harbor as a Result of Excessive Rainfall and Runoff
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that an emergency closure of shellfish harvesting areas in South County coastal shore ponds in Narragansett, South Kingstown, Charlestown and Westerly, and in Mackerel Cove and Dutch Harbor in Jamestown will take effect at sunrise Thursday, March 25.
Story
3/23/10
DEM Announces Shellfish Closure in Bristol Harbor Beginning March 24 Due to Sewage Overflows
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that waters within Bristol Harbor and surrounding Hog Island will be closed to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise Wednesday, March 24, until sunrise March 31, 2010.
Story
3/23/10
DEM Begins Stocking 80000 Trout in Advance of April 10 Opening of Freshwater Fishing Season
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish & Wildlife announces that the 2010 trout and general freshwater fishing season will begin at 6 a.m. on Saturday, April 10 .More than 20,000 anglers are expected to turn out at dawn on opening day .Approximately 80,000 hatchery raised brook, brown, and rainbow trout with an average individual weight of one and a half pounds are being stocked by Division staff in more than 100 ponds and streams for opening day.
Story
3/22/10
Gray Fox that Attacked Several Residents in Reservoir Area of Providence on Sunday Confirmed Positive for Rabies
The Department of Environmental Management has received confirmation from the Department of Health Laboratory that the gray fox submitted for testing on Sunday has been confirmed positive for rabies.
Story
3/22/10
DEM Cautions Residents on Providence/Cranston Line about Fox Bite Incidents
The Department of Environmental Management cautions residents living near Mashapaug Pond in Providence that there were several incidents of people being bitten by a fox in unprovoked attacks on Sunday.
Story
3/15/10
DEM Announces Shellfish Closure in Bristol Harbor and Nearby Waters Beginning at Sunrise Tuesday, Marh 16
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that all waters of Bristol Harbor and a portion of the east middle portion of the Bay will be closed to shellfish harvesting beginning at sunrise Tuesday, March 16 until sunrise on Tuesday, March 23.
Story
3/9/10
DEM Concludes Centennial Celebration of State Parks with Historical Publication
The Department of Environmental Management has published 100 Years of Rhode Island State Parks, concluding the centennial anniversary year of the state park system. Written by local historian and Kelly House Museum naturalist Albert T. Klyberg, the publication documents the progression of the state park system from a visionary plan in the early 1900s to the statewide network of historic and magnificent greenspaces and greenways of today.
Story
3/9/10
DEM'S Low Ground Pressure Excavator and Other Equipment to be Used Today in Salt Marsh Restoration Project Being Conducted at Cards Ponds in South Kingstown
The Department of Environmental Management's low ground pressure excavator will be in use today in the Cards Ponds salt marsh restoration project in South Kingstown. DEM's Division of Agriculture, through its Mosquito Abatement Program, is a partner in the project with the US Fish & Wildlife Service.
Story
2/23/10
DEM Offering Small Grants for 2010 Earth Day Cleanups and Beautification Projects
The Department of Environmental Management is offering grants of up to $2,000 each to organizers of Earth Day 2010 cleanups and beautification projects. This April celebrates the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Funding for these grants is being provided by J.R. Vinagro Corp. of Johnston.
Story
2/23/10
DEM to Hold Two Public Hearings Thursday, March 4 Regarding Animal Health Issues
The Department of Environmental Management announces that it will hold public hearings on Thursday, March 4 on proposed adoption of new rabies control rules and regulations and proposed amendments to rules and regulations governing the importation and possession of wild animals. Both hearings are scheduled for 9 a.m. in Room 300 at DEM Headquarters, 235 Promenade Street in Providence.
Story
2/19/10
April 18 Workshop will Provide Volunteers with Hands-On Training in Helping Animals During Emergency Situations
The Department of Environmental Management is encouraging those interested in helping animals in emergency situations to participate in a free, hands-on training session scheduled for Sunday, April 18 at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick. The program is sponsored by the Rhode Island Disaster Animal Response Team (RIDART), with support from DEM.
Story
2/18/10
DEM Announces Emergency Closure of Mount Hope Bay and Kickemuit River to Shellfishing on Thursday February 18 due to Fall River Sewage Pump Failure
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Mount Hope Bay and the Kickemuit River were closed to shellfishing beginning at noon today. DEM enacted the emergency closure because an estimated 2.5 million gallons of raw sewage entered Battleship Cove in Fall River, MA after the failure of a sewage pump station on Central Street in Fall River on Wednesday. Officials from the Fall River Regional Wastewater Treatment Facility notified DEM's Office of Water Resources of the spill today.
Story
2/16/10
DEM Seeks Information, Comments From the General Public for Developement on New State Forest Assessment Plan
The Department of Environmental Management is seeking feedback from users of the state's forest resources and the general public on a host of issues related to the management, preservation and protection of Rhode Island's forest resources.
Story
2/15/10
DEM Reminds Rhode Islanders to Properly Maintain Their Oil Tanks and Furnaces to Prevent Home Heating Oil Spills
The Department of Environmental Management is reminding Rhode Island residents that proper care and maintenance of their fuel oil tank, lines and furnace can reduce the chance of spilling oil and being faced with costly environmental problems. Releases from residential heating oil tanks are extremely problematic and cleanup can be expensive. Oil can soak into the concrete and ruin foundations. Oil may also flow from a yard or basement and spread through groundwater, contaminating drinking water wells, soil, surface water, septic systems, storm water drains, sewers and drainage ditches.
Story
2/2/10
DEM Report on Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program Shows High Redemption Rate for Seniors Utilizing Coupons
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture reports that 19,666 eligible Rhode Island senior citizens and handicapped people living in elderly housing participated in the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program in 2009. The program, funded last year by a $286,000 grant from the US Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides low-income seniors and handicapped citizens with coupons that can be exchanged for fresh produce at farmers' markets and roadside stands throughout the state.
Story
1/29/10
DEM Reports Ice is Safe and Cleared for Skating in Designated Area at Goddard Memorial State Park
The Department of Environmental Management has determined that safe ice conditions now exist in designated areas at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick, and Lincoln Woods State Park in Lincoln.
Story
1/28/10
DEM Postpones Family Ice Fishing Training Program set for Saturday Due to Poor Ice Conditions
The Department of Environmental Management has postponed the Family Ice Fishing Training workshop scheduled for this Saturday, January 30, due to poor ice conditions. Sponsored by DEM's Aquatic Resource Education Program, the workshop has been rescheduled for Saturday, February 6, from 9 a.m. to noon at the Carolina Trout Hatchery in Carolina. A limited number of spaces are still available for the February 6 program.
Story
1/27/10
Jamestown Wastewater Treatment Staff Presented with EPA Regional Excellence Award Trophy
The staff of the Town of Jamestown's Wastewater Treatment Facility were recognized today by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency with a regional excellence award for the ongoing operations and maintenance of the town-operated wastewater collection and treatment facilities. The Jamestown Wastewater Treatment Facility, located on Southwest Avenue, successfully purifies some 500,000 gallons of residential and commercial wastewater every day.
Story
1/26/10
DEM to Stock Rainbow Trout in Several Ponds this Week in Anticipation of Ice-Fishing Season
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife will stock about 3,500 rainbow trout in several locations throughout the state this week in anticipation of the winter ice-fishing season. All the trout that will be stocked were raised in DEM's trout hatchery and weigh at least one pound.
Story
1/22/10
Portion of DEM'S Division of Fish and Wildlife Administrative Office Relocated
The Department of Environmental Management is advising the public that a portion of the Division of Fish and Wildlife's administrative office has been relocated from the Oliver Stedman Government Center in Wakefield to the Division of Forest Environment's Headquarters at 1037 Hartford Pike in North Scituate. Tenant needs and recent renovations to the Stedman Government Center offices, which are managed by the Department of Administration, necessitated the relocation.
Story
1/22/10
Family Ice Fishing Training Program to be Offered on Saturday, January 30 at Carolina Trout Hatchery
A limited number of spaces are still available in the Department of Environmental Management's Family Ice Fishing Training workshop to be held on Saturday, January 30. Sponsored by DEM's Aquatic Resource Education Program, the workshop will take place from 9 a.m. to noon at the Carolina Trout Hatchery in Carolina.
Story
1/21/10
Volunteer Fire Assistance Grant Funds for Rural Community Fire Departments Available Through DEM
The Department of Environmental Management, in cooperation with the US Forest Service and the RI Forest Fire Advisory Committee, announces the availability of grants for rural wild land fire suppression planning, training and equipment. The grants range in amounts from $1,000 to $5,000 and are being made available through the federal Volunteer Fire Assistance program.
Story
1/15/10
DEM Accepting Applications for 2010 Seasonal
The Department of Environmental Management says it's not too early to think about seasonal employment at state parks, beaches and campgrounds.
Story
1/8/10
DEM Reports Safe Ice and Good Skating Conditions at Goddard Memorial State Park
The Department of Environmental Management has determined that ice is currently safe for skating in the designated skating area at Goddard Memorial State Park in Warwick.
Story
1/7/10
State Receives $673K Grant to Fight Threats to Forests
In a partnership funded by a $673,000 federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant through the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the Rhode Island Natural History Survey (RINHS) will protect and restore forest health by surveying for and eradicating invasive plants that threaten priority forest areas.
Story
1/5/10
DEM Announces Changes to Commercial Fishing Licensing Regulations
The Department of Environmental Management announces several regulatory changes to the commercial fishing licensing program. The changes apply to new and renewed licenses for 2010. The regulatory changes took effect on December 28, 2009 following an October public hearing and consideration by the RI Marine Fisheries Council.
Story
12/17/09
DEM Announces that Grant Funds are Available for Nonprofit Source Pollution Control
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that up to $750,000 in federal Clean Water Act grants are available for local projects to restore water quality and abate nonpoint source pollution. Local, state and regional governmental agencies, as well as public schools, universities, and non-profit watershed, environmental or conservation organizations, are eligible to apply for the grants.
Story
12/17/09
DEM to Stock Atlantic Salmon for Rhode Island
The Department of Environmental Management announces that hatchery staff from its Division of Fish and Wildlife will stock about 200 surplus domestic Atlantic salmon broodstock in three ponds before Christmas Day in anticipation of the winter ice-fishing season. Winter trout stocking will take place soon after.
Story
12/2/09
2009-2010 Shotgun Deer Hunting Season Opens Saturday, December 5
The Department of Environmental Management announces the seasons and general rules for shotgun deer hunting in Rhode Island. The shotgun season for deer on the mainland begins on Saturday, December 5 and continues through December 13. Hunters can utilize both state land management areas and private lands during that period. From December 14 through December 20, shotgun season continues on private lands only for taking either-sex deer. Antlerless deer only may be taken on private lands during the late season, which runs from December 26 to January 2. Hunters may use their muzzleloaders during any of these seasons provided they purchase and hunt with a valid 2009 shotgun deer tag. The bag limit during the season is one deer of either sex and two antlerless deer.
Story
11/30/09
DEM Reports Rabid Raccoon Found in Roger Williams Park
The Department of Environmental Management has received positive confirmation of rabies in a raccoon that was found in Roger Williams Park in Providence last week. A veterinarian who works near the park retrieved the already deceased animal and brought it to the Department of Health Laboratory for testing. There have been no reports of human or animal contact with this raccoon. Finding rabies in this location is a public health concern due to the large number of people who use the park.
Story
11/19/09
DEM Announces Opening of Indoor Winter Farmers Markets in North Kingstown and South Kingstown
Starting this Saturday, November 21, shoppers in South County will have two new winter farmers' markets available where they can purchase a wide variety of locally grown and produced products. The Wintertime Coastal Growers Market will open at Lafayette Mill on Route 102, just west of Wickford in North Kingstown. The South Kingstown Indoor Winter Farmers' Market will open at the Peacedale Mill Complex, located at 1425 Kingstown Road (Route 108) in Peacedale.
Story
11/18/09
DEM and Ridot Announce $1.1 Million will be Available in Grant Funding for Local Recreational Trails Projects
The Department of Environmental Management and the RI Department of Transportation announce that $1.1 million in federal transportation funds will be available to state, local and non-profit agencies in grants for trail development, improvement, and equipment. Applications for the grants will be accepted by DEM through February 12.
Story
11/5/09
DEM Schedules Additional Workshop on the new Rhode Island Conservation Easement Guidance Manual on December 10
The Department of Environmental Management announces that an additional workshop on the new RI Conservation Easement Guidance Manual, presented by DEM's Sustainable Watersheds office and the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve, has been scheduled for Thursday, December 10 at DEM headquarters in Providence. Registration for the first workshop, which is scheduled for November 30, is filling up quickly with a limited number of seats still available.
Story
11/3/09
DEM Awards $106,681 in Federal Funds for Boat Sewage Pump-Out Facilities
The Department of Environmental Management has awarded $106,681 in grants for new or upgraded marine pump-out facilities. The amount includes $47,625 for new pump-out facilities and $59,056 for repairs or maintenance to currently operating systems. Funding for the projects was provided to DEM through the federal Clean Vessel Act pump-out grant program, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Each grant requires a 25 percent match.
Story
11/3/09
DEM Announces November 30 Workshop to be Held on the New Rhode Island Conservation Easement Guidance Manual
The Department of Environmental Management announces that a workshop on the new RI Conservation Easement Guidance Manual, presented by DEM's Sustainable Watersheds office and the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve, will be offered on Monday, November 30 at DEM headquarters in Providence.
Story
11/3/09
DEM Cautions Drivers to be Alert for Deer Crossing Roadways During the Rut (Mating Season)
The Department of Environmental Management is advising motorists to be alert for deer, particularly at dawn and dusk. The deer mating season is currently underway, and will continue through November and much of December. Deer tend to move around more frequently during this time, and November is typically the peak period for road kills.
Story
10/30/09
DEM and Town of Narragansett Release Survey Results from Town Residents on Renewable Energy, Wind Turbine Construction
The Department of Environmental Management, in partnership with the Town of Narragansett, has released the results of a survey of Narragansett residents on renewable energy and the possible installation of three to six wind turbines on State and/or Town properties in Narragansett.
Story
10/30/09
DEM Announces November 12 Public Meeting to Discuss Ways to Restore Water Quality in Mount Hope Bay and the Kickemuit River
The Department of Environmental Management will hold a public meeting on Thursday, November 12 to discuss recommendations and strategies for restoring water quality in Mount Hope Bay and the Kickemuit River estuary .The meeting will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Burnside Memorial Building located at 400 Hope Street in Bristol, adjacent to Bristol Town Hall.
Story
10/27/09
October 27 West Nile/EEE Final Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 20 mosquito pools, or samples, from a total of 22 traps set statewide during the week of October 13 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE).
Story
10/26/09
DEM, State and Local Officials Break Ground for Reconstruction of Mount Hope Boat Launch in Bristol
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, PhD last Friday joined state and local officials at a groundbreaking event in Bristol marking the beginning of the Mount Hope boat launch improvement project.
Story
10/22/09
DEM to Host October 23 Groundbreaking Ceremony for Mount Hope Boat Launch Improvement Project in Bristol
The Department of Environmental Management will host a groundbreaking event for the Mount Hope Boat Launch Improvement Project at 10 a.m. Friday, October 23.
Story
10/16/09
October 16 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from the remaining 37 mosquito pools, or samples, from 25 traps set during the week of October 5 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE.) As was previously reported, one mosquito pool from a trap set in South Kingstown has tested positive for EEE.
Story
10/16/09
DEM Cancels Saturday's Fire Tower Event at Chopmist Forestry Headquarters Due to Inclement Weather
The Department of Environmental Management announces that due to inclement weather and potentially hazardous climbing conditions, the fire tower at the Division of Forest Environment's Chopmist Headquarters in North Scituate will not be open tomorrow.
Story
10/13/09
DEM Announces EEE Found in South Kingstown Pool of Mosquitoes
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from one mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set at Peckham Farm at the University of Rhode Island has been confirmed positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. The positive EEE result was from a Culiseta species that bites only birds.
Story
10/9/09
October 9 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from the remaining 39 mosquito pools, or samples, from 25 traps set during the week of September 28 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE.) As was previously reported, one mosquito pool from a trap set in the Capitol Hill area of Providence has tested positive for EEE.
Story
10/9/09
DEM Announces Reopening of Shellfish Waters that take Effect on October 13
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that seasonal shellfish openings will take effect at sunrise Tuesday, October 13. Consistent with US Food and Drug Agency requirements, DEM closed these areas to the harvesting of shellfish in May due to potential water quality impacts associated with marinas and mooring fields.
Story
10/7/09
East Bay Bike Path to be Designated as a 'Rail-Trail Hall of Fame' Trail by the Rails-To-Trails Conservancy
The East Bay Bike Path will be designated as a Rail-Trail Hall of Fame trail by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy on Friday, October 9. An 11:30 a.m. awards ceremony will be held on the bike path at the intersection of Thames and Oliver Streets in Bristol. The Rails-to-Trails Conservancy will provide DEM with signs to post along the bikeway indicating the path's designation as a Rail-Trail Hall of Fame bike path.
Story
10/6/09
DEM Announces that Public is Invited to Climb Fire Tower at Chopmist Forestry Headquarters on Saturday October 17
The Department of Environmental Management announces that on Saturday, October 17, the public is invited to climb the fire tower at the Division of Forest Environment's Chopmist Headquarters at 1037 Hartford Pike (Route 101) in North Scituate, weather permitting.
Story
10/5/09
DEM Announces EEE Found in Providence Pool of Mosquitoes
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from one mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set in the Capitol Hill area of Providence has been confirmed positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). It is the third time this year that EEE has been positively identified in Rhode Island. The positive EEE result was from a Culex species that bites both birds and humans. Last Friday, DEM reported that Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans, was found at the same trap site in Providence
Story
10/5/09
Walk in the Woods with Foresters
The Rhode Island Chapter of the Society of American Foresters (RISAF) and the Department of Environmental Management have announced their 17th annual "Walk in the Forest" program and invite school classes and the general public to participate. The program is designed to educate the public about the benefits of healthy forests and how foresters care for them.
Story
10/2/09
October 2 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from the remaining 53 mosquito pools, or samples, from 32 traps set statewide during the week of September 21 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. DEM previously reported that three mosquito pools tested positive for the Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans. These samples came from mosquitoes trapped on September 21 in the southern part of East Providence, the Capitol Hill area of Providence, and on Block Island.
Story
10/1/09
Public Invited to Annual Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off Sponsored by DEM, Southern NE Giant Pumpkin Growers at Frerichs Farm in Warren on Saturday, October 10
The public is invited to the 16th annual Southern New England Giant Pumpkin Championship on Saturday, October 10 at Frerichs Farm in Warren. Unloading of the biggest pumpkins grown in the area will begin at 10 a.m. with the weigh-off scheduled for 1 p.m. In case of rain, the championship will take place on Sunday, October 11.
Story
9/29/09
DEM Reports Positive West Nile Virus Mosquitoes Trapped in East Providence
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from a mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set in the southern part of East Providence near the Seekonk border has been confirmed positive for West Nile Virus. The positive West Nile result was from a Culex species of mosquitoes that bites both birds and humans.
Story
9/25/09
September 25 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from the remaining 54 mosquito pools, or samples, from 32 traps set during the week of September 14 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE.) As was previously reported, one mosquito pool in the Woodlawn/Fairlawn area of Pawtucket has tested positive for West Nile Virus.
Story
9/22/09
DEM Announces West Nile Virus Found in Pawtucket Mosquitoes
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from a second mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set in the Woodlawn/Fairlawn area of Pawtucket has been confirmed positive for West Nile Virus. The positive West Nile result was from a Culex species that bites both birds and humans.
Story
9/18/09
September 18 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from the remaining 47 mosquito pools, or samples, from 32 traps set during the week of September 8 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. As was previously reported, one mosquito pool in South Kingstown has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, one mosquito pool in Pawtucket has tested positive for West Nile Virus, and one mosquito pool in Providence has tested positive for the Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans.
Story
9/17/09
Shellfish Area 'A' in Upper Narracansett Bay to Re-Open Three Days Easrly as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area A in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Friday, September 18, three days earlier than the scheduled September 21st re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Saturday, September 12 following the rain that fell beginning late Friday night into Sunday. Conditional Area B has remained open due to the fact that the threshold of one inch of rain within a 24-hour period was not exceeded.
Story
9/16/09
DEM Announces West Nile Virus Found in Pawtucket Pool of Mosquitoes
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from one mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set in the Woodlawn section of Pawtucket has been confirmed positive for West Nile Virus. It is the first time this year that West Nile Virus has been positively identified in Rhode Island, although it is presumed likely to be present in all areas of the state. The positive West Nile result was from a Culex species that bites both birds and humans.
Story
9/14/09
DEM Announces EEE Found in New Pool of Mosquitoes Trapped in South Kingston
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from a second mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set at Peckham Farm at the University of Rhode Island has been confirmed positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. It is the second time this year that EEE has been positively identified in Rhode Island, although it is presumed likely to be present in all areas of the state. The positive EEE result was from a Culex species that bites both birds and humans. In addition, one mosquito pool from a trap set in the Capitol Hill area of Providence has tested positive for the Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans. The positive findings came from mosquitoes trapped by DEM staff on September 8 and tested at the RI Department of Health (HEALTH) laboratory. The results were confirmed today. As a result, DEM will continue to set additional mosquito traps in South Kingstown, and will be setting extra mosquito traps in Providence.
Story
9/11/09
DEM: September 11 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from 87 mosquito pools, or samples, from 34 traps set during the week of August 31 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. As was previously reported, one mosquito pool in South Kingstown has tested positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis, and two mosquito pools in South Kingstown have tested positive for the Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans.
Story
9/9/09
DEM Advises Public to Avoid Contact with Florida Manatee Sighted in Rhode Island Waters
With the recent sightings of a Florida manatee in Rhode Island waters, the Department of Environmental Management is reminding the public to avoid contact with the animal so that it will leave the state's waters and return south before water temperatures drop.
Story
9/4/09
DEM: September 4 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces test results from the remaining 82 mosquito pools, or samples, trapped during the week of August 24. Of those, 80 mosquito pools from 32 traps set statewide are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Two mosquito pools from two traps set in at Peckham Farm in South Kingstown have tested positive for the Highlands J virus, a bird disease that does not affect humans. DEM announced Tuesday that test results from one mosquito pool from a trap set on August 24 at Peckham Farm at the University of Rhode Island was confirmed positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
9/3/09
Shellfish Areas in Upper Narragansett Bay to Re-Open Two Days Early as a Result of Acceptable Post-Storm Monitoring Data
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Conditional Area A and Conditional Area B in upper Narragansett Bay will re-open to shellfishing beginning at sunrise Friday, September 4, two days earlier than the scheduled September 6th re-opening. The area has been closed to shellfishing since noon on Saturday, August 29 following the 1.72 inches of rain that fell beginning late Friday night and throughout the day on Saturday. The "early" opening is possible due to operation of Narragansett Bay Commission's Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) tunnel, which went on line in November 2008.
Story
9/3/09
DEM Director to Tour Tiverton's Bay Street Neighborhood to View Progress of Clean-up Work Thursday
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, PhD will tour Tiverton’s Bay Street neighborhood at 2 p.m. Thursday, September 3 to view progress being made in the clean up of contaminated soil on 100 properties in the neighborhood. Sullivan will be joined by local officials, representatives of area residents, and EnviroLogic, the clean up contractor.
Story
9/1/09
DEM Announces EEE Found in South Kingstown Pool of Mosquitoes
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from one mosquito pool, or sample, from a trap set at Peckham Farm at the University of Rhode Island has been confirmed positive for Eastern Equine Encephalitis. It is the first time this year that EEE has been positively identified in Rhode Island, although it is presumed likely to be present in all areas of the state. The positive EEE result was from a Culex species that bites both birds and humans.
Story
8/28/09
August 28 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 114 mosquito pools, or samples, from 36 traps set statewide during the week of August 17 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis. DEM notes that it is the height of the mosquito-borne disease transmission season and the possibility of disease transmission is increasingly likely. West Nile Virus has been found in mosquito samples in New England states, including neighboring Massachusetts and Connecticut.
Story
8/28/09
Seeks Seasonal Staff for Fall Positions at State Parks and Campgrounds
The Department of Environmental Management is seeking applicants to fill 20-30 seasonal positions at state parks, campgrounds, and the Goddard Park golf course this fall.
Story
8/21/09
August 21 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 40 mosquito pools, or samples, from 36 traps set statewide during the week of August 11 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
8/20/09
DEM to Host Grand Finale for GREAT OUTDOORS PURSUIT this Sunday
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the grand finale of the 2009 Rhode Island Great Outdoors Pursuit will take place on Sunday, August 23 from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Brenton Point State Park in Newport.
Story
8/18/09
Ozone Alert - Health Advisory - Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will reach unhealthy levels in all of Rhode Island, in the mid to late afternoon on Tuesday. A very warm and very humid air mass will be present for today, which means unhealthy air conditions. The poor air quality is due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations. Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.
Story
8/17/09
Ozone Alert - Health Advisory - Monday, August 17, 2009
The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management is predicting that air quality will reach unhealthy levels especially interior sections of Rhode Island, in the mid to late afternoon on Monday. A very warm and humid air mass has been present since Friday and pollutant levels have been steadily rising. The poor air quality is due to elevated ground level ozone concentrations. Ozone is a major component of smog and is formed by the photochemical reaction of pollutants emitted by motor vehicles, industry and other sources in the presence of elevated temperatures and sunlight.
Story
8/14/09
August 14 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 90 mosquito pools, or samples, from 29 traps set statewide during the week of August 3 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
8/7/09
DEM: August 7 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 71 mosquito pools, or samples, from 35 traps set statewide during the week of July 27 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
8/7/09
DEM Announces Closure of Summer Flounder Commercial Fishery
The Department of Environmental Management announces that the summer sub-period quota for the commercial fishery for summer flounder has been reached. The fishery is therefore closed. The fishery will reopen on November 1, pursuant to the fall sub-period quota.
Story
8/4/09
DEM Conducts Public Outreach Effort, asks Public to Notify Department if they Suspect Presence of Invasive Asian Beetle
Through a cooperative effort with the USDA and Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), the Department of Environmental Management is coordinating a comprehensive public outreach and detection program for the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB). ALB is an invasive insect that came to the United States in wooden shipping crates from China and Korea more than 10 years ago. It affects hardwood shade trees such as maple, ash, birch, willow and elm by boring into the core of the tree and eventually killing it. This beetle has the potential of wiping out thousands of the state's trees if it goes undetected.
Story
8/3/09
DEM Announces that Breene Hollow Farm in West Greenwich has been Named State's 2009 Outstanding Dairy Farm of the Year
The Department of Environmental Management announces that Breene Hollow Farm in West Greenwich has been named Rhode Island's 2009 Outstanding Dairy Farm of the Year by the Rhode Island Green Pastures Committee. Winning dairy farmers from each New England state will be honored at an awards banquet on September 18 at the Eastern States Exposition in West Springfield, MA. Ken Ayars, chief of DEM's Division of Agriculture has been asked to host this year's awards ceremony as a demonstration of RI's support and commitment to dairy farming.
Story
8/3/09
DEM Announces Appointment of James Ball as Emergency Response Coordinator
Department of Environmental Management Director W. Michael Sullivan, Ph.D. today announced the appointment of James Ball as environmental response coordinator. Ball has held this position in an acting capacity since December 2008.
Story
7/31/09
DEM: July 31 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 79 mosquito pools, or samples, from 30 traps set statewide during the week of July 20 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
Story
7/30/09
DEM to Host 4th Great Outdoors Pursuit Event Saturday at Burlingame State Campground
The Department of Environmental Management continues to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Rhode Island State Parks this Saturday with the 4th Great Outdoors Pursuit event on Saturday, August 1 at Burlingame State Campground in Charlestown. The event features camping and nature activities that will take place during the day and into the night.
Story
7/29/09
DEM Soliciting Applications Statewide for Targeted Brownfield Assessment Projects
The Department of Environmental Management is soliciting applications from across Rhode Island to initiate allocation of $400,000 in Targeted Brownfields Assessment (TBA) funding. This grant is being supported by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009 and will be spent over the next three years. Brownfields are sites where expansion, redevelopment, or reuse may be complicated by the presence or potential presence of environmental contamination.
Story
7/29/09
DEM to Hold Public Hearing on Proposed Waterfowl Season, Falconry, Park and Management Area Regulations on August 27
The Department of Environmental Management will hold a public hearing on proposed regulations governing the upcoming migratory waterfowl hunting season and the practice of falconry, and park and management area regulations on Thursday, August 27. The hearing will be held at 7:00 p.m. at the North Kingstown Community Center on Beach Street in North Kingstown, off Route 1A just south of Wickford. As in past years, the Division will also conduct a presentation on the breeding status of waterfowl in the United States and Canada.
Story
7/23/09
Northeast Forest Pest Outreach and Survey Project to Look for Signs of Asian Longhorned Beetle in City of Warwick
Through a cooperative effort with the USDA and Animal Plant Health Inspection Services (APHIS), the Department of Environmental Management is coordinating a comprehensive outreach and detection program for the Asian Longhorned Beetle (ALB) in the City of Warwick. ALB is an invasive insect that came to the United States in wooden shipping crates from China and Korea more than 10 years ago. It affects hardwood shade trees such as maple, ash, birch, willow and elm by boring into the core of the tree and eventually killing it. This beetle has the potential of wiping out thousands of Warwick's trees if it goes undetected.
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7/21/09
DEM and Town of Narragansett Begin to Survey Local Residents on Renewable Energy, Construction of Wind Turbines
The Department of Environmental Management, in partnership with the Town of Narragansett, is beginning to survey local residents to gather their opinions on renewable energy and the possible installation of three to six wind turbines on state and/or Town properties in Narragansett. The survey is being conducted to collect information from Narragansett residents and others to better inform state and local officials on concerns raised by the possible construction of these wind turbines.
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7/20/09
DEM: July 20 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 51 mosquito pools, or samples, from 34 traps set statewide during the week of July 7 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
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7/20/09
NOAA, State and Local Officials Launch Next Phase of Narragansett Bay Debris
Department of Environmental Management officials, Rhode Island's Congressional delegation, officials of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, joined with Clean the Bay, Save the Bay and the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association this morning at Bristol Marine in Bristol to highlight a revitalized program to rid Narragansett Bay of marine debris and to launch the third phase of the comprehensive cleanup initiative.
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7/17/09
Governor Carcieri, Joined by Federal, State and Local Officials to Launch Next Phase of Major Clean-Up of Narragansett Bay
Governor Donald Carcieri and a large group of federal, state, and local officials will gather at Bristol Marine, Bristol to herald the accomplishments of Project Clean Sweep, the state's unprecedented campaign to rid Narragansett Bay of marine debris. At the event, federal officials from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will present a new $174,000 grant to the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management to expand work along 80 miles of Bay shoreline bordering six Bay communities.
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7/10/09
DEM Announces Reopening of Winnapaug Pond to Shellfishing Beginning at Noon Saturday, July 11
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that Winnapaug Pond in Charlestown will reopen to shellfish harvesting at sunrise on Saturday, July 11. DEM's decision to reopen the pond is based on test results from sampling done by staff yesterday. DEM closed Winnapaug Pond and Point Judith Pond to shellfishing on July 2 because both coastal ponds were impacted by excessive rainfall and runoff two days prior.
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7/10/09
DEM: July 10 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 24 mosquito pools, or samples, from 20 traps set statewide during the week of June 29 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
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7/9/09
Governor Carcieri Signs Law Increasing Fines for Industrial Pollution Offenses
Governor Donald L. Carcieri joined Representative John Edwards (Portsmouth/Tiverton), Senator Walter Felag, Jr. (Bristol/Tiverton/Warren), and the Department of Environmental Management (DEM) this morning at the Tiverton Town Hall for a ceremonial signing into law legislation that increases the maximum fines against industrial polluters from $1,000 to $25,000 per violation, per day, by creating a penalty provision for non-compliance with the DEM's Industrial Property Remediation and Reuse Act.
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7/9/09
DEM'S Seasonal Bay Line Telephone Information Line Provides Weekly Updates on Water Quality in Narragansett Bay
The Department of Environmental Management announces that its seasonal 24-hour Bay Line telephone information line is now open. The Bay Line number, 222-8888, is toll-free within the state.
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7/7/09
Double Benefits Available for Those Purchasing Fresh Fruits and Vegetables using Snap Benefits (Formerly known as Food Stamps) at Select Farmers Markets
This summer, families on federal nutrition assistance can double their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits when they purchase fresh fruits and vegetables at farmers' markets in Providence, Pawtucket and Woonsocket managed by Farm Fresh RI. Funding for the program is being provided by a grant from the non-profit Wholesome Wave Foundation. The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture supported Farm Fresh RI's application for the grant, as the Division's overall goal is to increase access to and consumption of locally-grown fruits and vegetables.
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7/3/09
DEM: July 3 West Nile/EEE Status Update
The Department of Environmental Management announces that test results from all 25 mosquito pools, or samples, from 33 traps set statewide during the week of June 22 are negative for both West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis.
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7/3/09
DEM Advises Home Gardeners, Farmers and Commercial Growers to be Alert of Late Blight in Tomato and Potato Plants
The Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture is advising home gardeners, farmers and commercial growers that an outbreak of Late Blight has been identified in some tomato and potato plants in Rhode Island. Therefore, all tomato and potato crops — those grown commercially as well as those grown in home gardens — should be viewed as potentially suspect for the disease and measures taken to monitor for and if necessary control the disease. DEM views the disease as a serious threat to agriculture and declares it to be a public nuisance. The Department will determine if additional regulations or quarantine are necessary.
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7/2/09
DEM Announces Closure of Point Judith and Winnapaug Ponds to Shellfishing Beginning at Noon Today as a Result of Excessive Rainfall and Runoff
The Department of Environmental Management has announced that two coastal ponds in South County are closed to shellfish harvesting beginning at noon Thurday, July 2, until further notice.
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