Press Release regarding the temporary closure for the Carson Trail and Parking Lot


Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

321 Port Road

Wells, ME 04090

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 April 28, 2020

Contacts: 
Karl Stromayer, Refuge Manager, 207-206-6735.  Karl_Stromayer@fws.gov

Ryan Kleinert, Deputy Refuge Manager, 207-205-7086.  Ryan_Kleinert@fws.gov

The Carson Trail and Parking Lot to Close Temporarily Starting April 29, 2020

Wells, ME – The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service today announced the temporary closure of the Carson Trail and the adjacent Parking Lot, effective April 29, 2020. This action is being taken on behalf of public and employee safety, and Centers for Disease Control guidance designed to slow spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).

The closure is supported by the Town of Wells and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services.  Other trails and the fishing areas at the refuge maintains will remain open to provide opportunities for recreation and relaxation to the public.

The health and safety of our visitors and employees at Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is our number one priority. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with the federal, state and local authorities to closely monitor the COVID-19 situation. A reopening date has not been determined for the Carson Trail and Parking Lot at this time. We will notify the public when we reopen these sites and provide updates on our website and social media channels.

We urge our visitors to do their part to follow CDC guidance to prevent the spread of infectious diseases by maintaining a safe distance between yourself and other groups; washing your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds; avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth; covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and most importantly, staying home if you feel sick.

Updates about Service’s response to coronavirus will posted at

https://www.fws.gov/home/public-health-update.html. Please check with individual refuges or facilities regarding the change of operations or postponement of events and programs.

Please check the Refuge’s website for any changes in operations, updates, and re-openings: https://www.fws.gov/refuge/rachel_carson/ or at our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/RachelCarsonNWR/

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws/gov.