FIRE BAN IN EFFECT In response to the continued elevated risk of wildfires, DEM has issued a fire ban at all State Parks, campgrounds, and management areas until further notice. The ban is effective as of today (10/28/24) and includes campfires in designated campfire areas, including charcoal fires and cooking fires. This preventative measure applies to all DEM-managed lands and aims to reduce the threat of human-caused wildfires. DEM will continue to monitor and evaluate conditions to determine when the ban can be lifted. Together we can protect our communities and keep first responders safe by reducing the risk of wildfires: 📞 Call 911 if you spot a fire/smoke. Timely information is critical to contain fires before they spread. 🔥 Remember, any outdoor fire is a potential source for a wildfire. Be careful with cigarettes and ashes. When disposing of wood stove ashes, put the ashes in a metal bucket of water. 🚒 Check with your local fire department for any other restrictions and permitting information. 🚨 Stay informed and find resources at dem.ri.gov/wildfirestatus.
Marine Unit The Marine Unit is divided into two units: Marine East and Marine West. Officers assigned to the Marine East unit cover territory from Greenwich Bay north and over to the East Bay. Officers assigned to Marine West cover territory south of Greenwich Bay, including Jamestown. Each unit is lead by a Lieutenant and a Sergeant. Marine officer duties include enforcing both recreational and commercial fishing, shellfishing, and lobster laws and regulations. They are responsible for patrolling the fishing ports along Rhode Island's coast, including Pt. Judith, which is one of the largest ports in the Northeast. Officers spend a great deal of patrol time afloat. The Division of Enforcement is the lead agency in the state to enforce boating safety and to investigate recreational boat accidents. Marine officers also conduct water-based search and rescues and respond to marine animal complaints. Marine officers provide security for Marine Safety Zones as well as for emergency closures for fishing and shellfishing. Marine officers also conduct state beach and coastal park patrols. Marine officers are assigned to teach boating safety courses. They also visit schools and attend scout meetings, fairs, and events to promote boating safety and environmental conservation. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Marine Fisheries Topics Marine Fisheries Regulations Other Fish and Wildlife Regulations New No-Discharge Compliance Program No-Discharge Certification Agents Shellfish Grounds, Closures and Approved Areas Safe Harbor Policy Requirements and Standards for Boats and Associated Equipment RI Pilotage Commission RI Derelict and Abandoned Vessel and Obstruction Removal Commission