About the Delaware Division of Parks and Recreation

89 Kings Highway
Dover, DE 19901
(302) 739-9200

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The Division of Parks and Recreation operates and maintains 14 state parks and related preserves and greenways throughout Delaware totaling more than 20,000 acres. The state's land protection programs, as well as the state's Greenways program, are administered by the Division. The Division is also responsible for providing recreational opportunities and educational and interpretive programs for the public. Other responsibilities include:

  • Acquiring and developing recreational lands & facilities
  • Providing for the protection of natural areas
  • Overseeing & planning for statewide recreational needs

Organization of the Division of Parks and Recreation

Division Director:
Charles A. Salkin

(302) 739-9200

The Division of Parks and Recreation is part of the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control. We are located at 89 King's Highway in Dover, Delaware. The Division is comprised of three sections: Planning, Preservation and Development, Operations and Maintenance, and Cultural and Recreational Services.

 
Planning Preservation and Development Section

Section Manager:
Matthew P. Chesser

(302) 739-9235

This section administers land acquisition and protection programs, including the Office of Nature Preserves. It also administers the Land and Water Conservation Trust Fund grants program, the statewide Greenways and Trails Program and the Coastal Heritage Greenway program. In addition, the section is responsible for planning, designing and constructing new facilities. The state's Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan is being developed by the section.

 
Operations and Maintenance Section

Section Manager:
Clyde L. Shipman

(302) 739-9220

This section oversees the day-to-day operation and maintenance of all state parks and facilities, including over 400 state park buildings. The section also oversees the enforcement of rules and regulations, park safety and security, visitor assistance, revenue collection, retail sales and concession management.

 
Cultural and Recreational Services Section

Section Manager:
Vacant

(302) 739-9191

This section is responsible for operating the Division's nine interpretive centers and offers programs on the natural and cultural resources of the parks, environmental education, and special events. The section is also responsible for the Division's cultural resources, including archaeology, history, historical architecture, and the Delaware Folklife Program. In addition, the section includes The First State Heritage Park at Dover, the Brandywine Zoo, web and print publications, exhibit and wayside exhibit development, and marketing and promotion. Offices are located at 152 S. State Street in Dover.

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