This letter was sent to DNREC Division of Parks and Recreation Director Ray Bivens with a copy provided to the Cape Gazette for publication.
I'm writing to express my disappointment with the Delaware surf-fishing permit process. This is the first time in 26 years I have not had a fair opportunity to purchase a tag. As a longtime member of Delaware Mobile Surf Fisherman and a six-plus generation Sussex Countian, I am disappointed in how the beaches have been exploited.
Having completed my Eagle Scout project within Cape Henlopen State Park, under Pat Cooper, I helped repair beach erosion, repaired and added snow fences, and spent countless hours removing trash and debris. I'm glad to see the state makes the money they want off the limited number of permits with complete disregard for the health of the beach itself. It is now obvious to me that the goals of Delaware State Parks leadership are not in the best interest of the natural resource, and that they must not respect the countless hours I (along with thousands of other residents) have volunteered, the trash I have removed, the local and out-of-state fishermen I have assisted in fishing guidance or the times I have helped a distressed vehicle.
Why limit to 17,000 tags? Is this an arbitrary number? Is the park capacity 17,000? What is park capacity? How are the vehicles on the beach counted? More tags equals more money. Maybe the state could use this newfound money to install a gate to control the number of vehicles on the beach, if that's what the tag limit is supposed to help. The extra amount of tags sold the last few years should be able to pay for more enforcement as well as a new gate and counter.
For only a handful of weekends throughout the summer, it's a shame to punish those who have to work a random February weekday. If the state was really concerned with the natural resources, there would be more opportunities for beach cleanups, surf fishing, and sand driving education and outreach. Luckily we have Maryland and New Jersey beaches just a short drive away that will accept our compassion and love of the natural area that we so treasure.
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