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Delaware by Day: Aquatic Resources Education Center and DuPont Nature Center 

Located about five miles north of Bombay Hook, along the Delaware Bayshore Highway (Route 9), a hidden gem awaits curious “kids of all ages.” Delaware’s Aquatic Resources Education Center (AREC) offers visitors a glimpse of aquatic life, wetlands and fishing. Several programs for children and families are taking place this summer, so pick up a fishing rod or put on your water shoes, and bring your visiting grandchildren for unique experiences. 

AREC is a division of DNREC’s division of Fish and Wildlife. Upcoming programs taking place are: 

  • “Take a Kid Fishing!” is a program that teaches kids (ages 6+) and young teens the basics of fishing and conservation. The events take place throughout the state. Admission is free, but registration here (Pearlie.Franklin@delaware.gov) is required. 
  • “Small Fry Adventures” is a program for kids aged 4-7. Learn about salt marsh fish and critters amongst us. As of this writing, there are no sessions currently scheduled, but you can check with Pearlie.Franklin@delaware.gov for more information. 
  • “Life in the Bay” is anyone’s chance to learn the art of using a seine in the Delaware Bay. Although it is designed for a young audience, families are welcome to participate. Wade in the shallow bay water with a net and learn what you caught before safely returning them to the water. The 2025 schedule is here: Life in the Bay 2025 
  • Youth Fishing Tournament, June 7, 2025. Various locations throughout Delaware. Reservations are required, and age group prizes are awarded. 

A little closer to SoDel is the DuPont Nature Center, near Milford at the Mispillion Harbor. The location is unique, nestled at the juncture where the Mispillion River and Cedar Creek meet the Delaware Bay. Its estuary is ideal for watching migratory birds, or learning about horseshoe crabs, shorebirds, other aquatic creatures and local history and ecology. 

The center is open Tuesday through Saturday through August, with reduced hours in the fall. The center is closed through the winter, but the observation deck is open all year to the public. 

A series of self-guided tour ideas for the whole family is available to print, including: 

Marine Homes 

Sensory Beach Walk 

Beach Scavenger Hunt 

Beach Combing Guide 

Build-a-Fish Activity 

Are you interested in volunteering? The following is from the DuPont Nature Center’s website: 

Become a Volunteer 

The DuPont Nature Center offers a variety of volunteer opportunities. Volunteers help staff the center and interact with the public, maintain aquariums and live aquatic species, assist with educational programs and help with facility maintenance. 

For more information or to volunteer, please call 302-422-1329. 

Enjoy the summer and learn more about educational and recreational programs just a short drive from SoDel. And don’t forget to get a fishing rod for the grandkids. 

By Bridget FitzPatrick 

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