Out and About in Delaware's State Parks

As I write this column, I can look out my window to another glorious day. It seems the summer of 2002 is going to be remembered for sunny days and hot temperatures. It’s only 7:30 a.m. and it’s already sweltering! In fact, we’ve been in this weather pattern for the past several weeks. While these are “perfect” conditions to lure people to our state parks, I have to admit I wouldn’t mind a little break from the heat. But like it or not, hot and humid conditions prevail…welcome to “the dog days of summer!”

The state park beaches have been packed with people trying to escape the sweltering temperatures. Gordons Pond has been attracting unusually large crowds. From all indications, everyone seems to appreciate the renovated parking area. Now that this once “hidden” area of Cape Henlopen State Park has been discovered, the regulars are learning they need to arrive early to assure themselves a place at this increasingly popular beach.

Things have been “heating up” throughout the park system. Large crowds have been the norm everywhere. Despite recent shortages in employees and resources, our dedicated staff is doing a terrific job keeping things running smoothly.

At home, things have settled into a comfortable pattern as well. With work around our new house finally under control, Bob and I really look forward to enjoying the sun and surf. One of our favorite pastimes is to take our Welsh terrier Scribbles to the Gordons Pond beach. She loves to play in the sand and ocean and it’s really a treat to watch her have such fun. Like many gay couples, our pet is our “child” and we enjoy spoiling her with constant love and attention. Of course, she knows she has the upper hand with us. After all, nothing is too good for our baby!

Well, Scribbles’ world got a little turned around this past week. We found ourselves the proud “parents” of a bouncing, nine-month-old Welsh terrier puppy…and, believe me, I mean BOUNCING! This puppy, a male, is all energy. For the first few days, he seemed incapable of standing still, constantly leaping at us demanding attention. This was a marked change from Scribbles, who has always been very gentle and calm.

The first order of business was to name our new child. We wanted something to go with Scribbles, which came from Bob’s background as an artist. I vetoed the initial suggestion of Doodles…I didn’t like possible connotations. We struggled to find other names, ultimately settling on Sketches. That accomplished, we moved on to other “important” tasks. Bob, his obvious soft spot for children and pets showing, took to the computer, sending out “new baby” announcements. I must admit I notified many friends as well…after all, I am proud parent too!

Sketches has calmed down a bit but continues to find new and creative ways to demand our attention. To her credit, Scribbles has been incredibly tolerant of her baby brother. She allows him to jump, bite, push, wrestle and otherwise terrorize her without getting overly upset. If anything, she is adjusting better than Bob and I. I’m not sure we were completely prepared for the demands of parenthood. We are definitely worn out, but wouldn’t want it any other way.

Oddly enough, our new puppy wasn’t the only bit of “doggie business” I had to attend to last week. I also received e-mail from a reader complaining about the large number of dogs off-leash at Gordons Pond. He was concerned that park enforcement staff was not doing enough to control the problem.

To be honest, pets have always been a difficult issue for the parks. Dog lovers want fewer restrictions, but other visitors aren’t necessarily so dog friendly. Many states prohibit or severely limit pet access in their parks, but Delaware State Parks welcome pets in certain areas at certain times and plan to do so as long as pet owners comply with the rules and regulations. Despite our best efforts to be “pet friendly”, it’s amazing how many people take the restrictions personally!

At any rate, before you head to the beach with man’s best friend, here are some things you need to know.

• Delaware law prohibits pets on swimming and sunbathing beaches from May 1 through Sept. 30. State park rules and regulations also prohibit pets in surfboarding areas, sailboarding beaches and bird nesting areas.

• Beach access for both people and pets is limited to designated dune crossings. Only take pets on crossings that directly access beaches open to the animals. Access is limited to designated crossings in order to protect fragile sand dunes and the beachgrass that helps to keep them stabilized. While beachgrass can withstand harsh coastal conditions, it does not survive being trampled by foot traffic.

• Dogs must be kept on a leash not to exceed six feet in length at all times. Sorry, but no matter how much your pet likes to swim, you can’t take him off the leash to play in the surf.

• Pets are never allowed in picnic areas, park buildings and bird nesting areas or on nature trails.

• You must ALWAYS clean up after your dog. Do not bury feces in the sand or throw it in the dunes or water. Remember, animal feces may carry diseases harmful to people. Please dispose of animal waste in an appropriate manner.

• Try to bring your dog to the beach at less crowded hours, early morning or late afternoon. It’s also more comfortable for your dog at these times because it will be a little cooler.

• Please keep dogs from shaking water on or invading the space of others.

• Never leave your pet unattended in your vehicle or camper. This is especially true in the summer when high temperatures can become life threatening for an animal.

• Always remember that it is the responsibility of dog owners, not the dog, to respect others.

For more information about park rules and regulations, programs and activities, check out the state parks website at www.destateparks.com. And if you have any questions or suggestions for future topics, please e-mail me at stephen.schilly@state.de.us. Or look for me at the beach!

NATURE’S BEST BESTS

If you are looking to expand your horizons this summer, why not explore Delaware Seashore State Park? Located south of Dewey Beach on Route 1, the 2,825-acre park with its six miles of ocean and bay shoreline is one of the state’s coastal treasures.

Some “best bets” include tours and programs at the Indian River Lifesaving Station (call 302-227-0478 for more information) or Pontoon Boat Tours from the Indian River Marina (call 302-227-2800 for prices, type of tour and times.)