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News Release
RI Department of Environmental Management
235 Promenade Street, Providence, RI 02908
(401) 222-2771 TDD/(401) 222-4462
For Release: May 13, 2008
Contact: Gail Mastrati 222-4700 ext. 2402
Stephanie Powell 222-4700 ext. 4418

DEM ANNOUNCES THAT CHANGES TO BEACH POND INCLUDE CLOSING SWIMMING AREA
Hiking, Fishing, Boating Access Still Available

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management announces changes to its 430-acre Beach Pond Management Area in Exeter for the upcoming season. The swimming area has been closed, and there is now access on site for car-top boats. Erosion control measures have been taken to stabilize the former beach area, in addition to other such erosion control measures announced last fall that will eventually restore vegetation and filter runoff from Route 165 before it enters the pond.

The Beach Pond Management Area's parking area, which has been reduced to room for 15 to 20 cars without trailers, is available for boating, fishing, and hiking; however, the parking area on the opposite side of Route 165 remains open to vehicles with small boat trailers, and the Connecticut boat launch site also remains available.

Visitors will notice other changes as well. The dilapidated building that once housed offices and concessions has been taken down, and portable restroom facilities are no longer available.

A popular spot for anglers as well as hikers, the Beach Pond Management Area is stocked with trout spring and fall, and, last fall, Connecticut officials stocked salmon in the pond. Anglers might also catch largemouth bass, pickerel, perch, or catfish, as well as smallmouth bass or walleye. Hikers can access the many miles of marked trails within the state's 14,000-acre, mostly forested, Arcadia Management Area, of which Beach Pond is a small part.

The Beach Pond Management Area will not be staffed, due to budget constraints. However, it will be subject to area patrols and maintenance. As always, and like all other state recreational areas, it is a "carry in-carry-out" facility.

Signage to make patrons aware that the swimming area is closed has already been posted on Route 95, Route 3, and Route 165. Signs noting "No Trailers. Parking for Boating, Fishing, Hiking Only" are expected to be posted on site by this weekend.

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