DNREC to begin construction on bulkhead at Phillips Landing

BETHEL (April 13, 2011) – The Delaware Division of Fish and Wildlife is gearing up to repair the old wooden bulkhead/retaining wall at Phillips Landing, a popular fishing and recreation spot located on the Nanticoke River near the Maryland line in western Sussex County. Construction has started this week, with project completion anticipated by late May.

“Phillips Landing is one of our most heavily used areas, especially with largemouth bass anglers. It has hosted numerous bass tournaments with anywhere from a few boats to nearly a hundred,” said DNREC Fisheries Administrator Craig Shirey.

The old bulkhead adjoining the boat ramp is in very bad shape and needs serious repair, Shirey said. “We will be replacing the bulkhead, and we know this will cause some inconvenience to local fishermen, but it will be well worth it in the end, with the improvements this will bring to the area,” he said.

At least one of the two boat ramps will remain open during construction, with both open most of the time. Shoreline anglers will be asked to stay out of the construction area during active work periods, and re-seeded areas will be fenced off until the new grass takes hold.

The Phillips Landing project will be funded by federal Sportfish Restoration Funds and state matching funds from licensing fees.

For more information, please contact the Fisheries Section at 302-739-9914.

Vol. 41, No. 149