GLOCESTER – The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management has temporarily closed all state-owned recreation properties in town following findings of Eastern Equine Encephalitis in several mosquito samples.
In an announcement on Wednesday, Sept. 13, RIDEM noted that the closure aims to lessen the risk of campers and hikers being bitten by mosquitos carrying the virus. Campers were ordered to vacate George Washington State Campground and Bowdish State Boat Ramp by 11 a.m. on Thursday.
Pulaski State Park and Recreational Area, and Durfee Hill Management Area have also been closed.
Officials said no boat ramp permits will be issued until further notice.
The decision reportedly follows news that two new mosquito samples tested positive for EEE. RIDEM noted that the state’s level of EEE and West Nile virus is considered high.
