News from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control.
February 19, 2008
Volume 38, Number 68

Contact: Barbara Woodford, Interpretive Manager, Wilmington State Parks, phone: (302) 577-7020 or Necia Beck, Delaware State Parks, phone: (302) 739-9175 

Paw Paws, Plants and Parks: An Alapocas Run State Park Walk and Talk

WILMINGTON, Del. - Delaware State Parks invites the public to its newest park, Alapocas Run State Park, from 1 until 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 23 to explore the interesting shrubs and plants nestled in the wooded area around the park. The 2 1/2-mile walk, led by Field Biologist Kendall Sommers, will introduce participants to the Paw Paw plant, a native shrub that provides a unique habitat for birds and butterflies.

Delaware State Parks’ strategies for properly managing natural resources to preserve and protect the environment will also be discussed.  Each participant will receive a free copy of a booklet with tips on how to become a part of the conservation efforts.

Visitors are reminded to wear hiking or other comfortable shoes and meet at the parking lot at the Blue Ball Barn. There is no charge for the program, but registration is required. Call the park office at 302-577-7020 for information.

Alapocas Run State Park opened to the public in 2007. The 150-acre park includes the renovated Blue Ball Barn, bike and walking trails, picnic areas, the Weldin Plantation ruins and a specially-designed accessible playground. Park entrance fees are in effect from March 1 through Nov. 30.

The park, conveniently located of I-95 at Route 202, is open from 8 a.m. until sunset, year-round.