A national council confirms what Delaware beach-goers already know: That our beaches are among the best in the country. A recently released report awarded Delaware’s ocean beaches the highest national ranking for clean water quality and beach nourishment projects.
Governor Jack Markell, Senator Tom Carper, Senator Chris Coons and DNREC Secretary Collin O’Mara joined Rehoboth Mayor Sam Cooper and representatives from the EPA and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand on July 3rd to recognize the First State’s first place ranking.
“Clean water quality and nourished ocean beaches are vital to tourism, job growth and Delaware’s economy,” said Governor Markell. “Delaware’s ranking as 1st in the country for swimming water quality and our expanded, beautifully-nourished community beaches are continuing to make our coastal resorts national destinations of choice.”
According to a DNREC release, the coastal economy generates nearly $7 billion annually, supporting nearly 60,000 jobs. Tourism dollars account for more than 10% of Delaware’s employment, taxes and business production.