Last year during the snow everyone went nuts about the kids sledding on the dunes in Cape Henlopen State Park. Some were furious and others thought it was no big deal. The kids claimed there weren’t any signs telling them otherwise. You should see that area now, it is worn down heavily and people are still walking down it like it is a path. This past weekend, this young man was seen on the dune cliffs of Bethany Beach. First things first, I am going to assume this young man can read … specifically that sign that is right in front of him, and not to mention the red tape marking the areas as off limits. Not only for the safety of beach goers, but to keep people off the damaged dunes. I guess my question to anyone is … why do people continue to do ignorant things like this? Is he that bored at the beach, that he has to ride a boogie board down an eight foot dune face? Is it that much fun? The other question that was posted to our Facebook page was, who do I call in this situation? I am sure 911 has better things to do, I would call the Bethany Town Police number (302) 539 1000. Now for those that are going to say this is not a big deal and the police should worry about more important things, you are correct they should.
On the other hand maybe this child should have been raised to respect others’ property, in this case state and town property. Had he been buried in sand and hurt doing this, his family would probably be screaming lawsuit. Does anyone realize the millions of dollars that will be spent to rebuild these dunes? DNREC Soil and Conservation is responsible for the dunes and crossings in Delaware, even in the beach towns. The fine for what this young man did is roughly $107 and in this case would probably fall under the beach restoration fines which start at $250 and then damages are charged by the foot. This occurred at Campbell Pl. in Bethany Beach.
Fish On!!
Rich King
UPDATE >>>>> from DNREC … This is a violation of Sections of the Regulations Governing Beach Protection and the Use of Beaches. Violations should be reported to DNREC Enforcement: 800-662-8802, which is also listed under Emergency Contacts on our website.