The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) has introduced the first phase of an online permit application portal for its Office of Water Resources Groundwater and Freshwater Protection Programs. This system will allow applicants to manage applications for various programs, including Freshwater Wetlands and Underground Injection Control Programs.
The second phase is set to launch on May 20. During this transition, no Septic/OWTS applications will be accepted or permits issued from May 2 to May 19, with some exceptions. Applications completed before May 1 at 4 PM will be transferred to the new system, while incomplete and new submissions must be filed online starting May 20.
In addition to the portal update, DEM’s Division of Fish and Wildlife (DFW) is offering a range of educational programs throughout the summer. These include Aquatic Resource Education Programs such as an introduction to the ‘Hex Hatch’ workshop and “Come Clam with Me” sessions. The latter involves instruction by quahogger Jody King on recreational clamming.
Hunter education courses are also available, including a Bowhunter Education Certification Course scheduled for June 7 at Wallum Lake Rod and Gun Club. Furthermore, DFW is hosting events like Family Day at the Range on May 31 and Women’s Day at the Range on August 2 in West Kingston.
Wildlife outreach initiatives include sessions on coexisting with coyotes, a bumblebee survey showcase via Zoom on June 17, Summer Bat Night in Richmond on July 17, and a dragonfly-focused Summer Dragon Hunt in West Kingston on July 12.
For those interested in conservation efforts, opportunities such as diamondback terrapin monitoring are available. Volunteers can participate in shoreline scans over nine weeks. Additionally, community science projects like Herp Observer and RI Wild Bee Observer encourage public participation through smartphone apps.
Further details about these programs can be found by visiting www.dem.ri.gov or following DEM’s social media channels for updates.
