U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service

News Release

Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Block Island NWR  John H. Chafee NWR at Pettaquamscutt Cove  Ninigret NWR  Sachuest Point NWR  Trustom Pond NWR

50 Bend Road, Charlestown, RI 02813-0307 (401)364-9124 Fax: 401/364-0170

For Further Information Contact:

Charlie Vandemoer, Refuge Manager, extension 11

Janis Nepshinsky, Visitor Services Manager, extension 28

Date: November 4, 2012

For Immediate Release

Middletown, RI

- Federal officials are asking the public to adhere to the closure of Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge in Middletown Rhode Island. The refuge is closed due to unsafe and hazardous conditions resulting from damage caused by Hurricane Sandy. "The high surf created unstable banks, severe drop offs right next to the trail, washed out trails, and over-steepened shoreline access points" said Refuge Manager Vandemoer. "These hazardous conditions coupled with the lack of emergency vehicle access to the Refuge from the damage to Sachuest Point Road create unsafe conditions for the public".

Law enforcement officials will patrol the refuge and anyone found on the refuge may be ticketed. Staff will continue to access the damages, and work with federal, state and local agencies to restore the road and refuge lands.

For more information please call 401.364.9124, visit our website at www.fws.gov/sachuestpoint or find us on Facebook: Keyword – Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex.