Every June, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) celebrates Ocean Month, a time dedicated to honoring the state’s rich coastal heritage and the vital role the ocean plays in our environment, economy and way of life. With 381 miles of shoreline, vibrant coastal communities and diverse marine ecosystems, Delaware’s connection to the ocean is deep and enduring.

Ocean Month highlights the importance of ocean conservation, sustainable practices and public engagement. From protecting wildlife habitats and improving water quality to supporting maritime industries and coastal recreation, Delawareans are working together to ensure our ocean remains healthy and resilient for future generations.

Throughout the month, residents and visitors are encouraged to learn about how the ocean shapes our lives and how DNREC protects Delaware’s marine resources, ecological functions and ocean and bay uses, specifically through the Ocean and Bay Plan.

In recent years, DNREC has led a variety of creative initiatives during Ocean Month to engage the community and celebrate the state’s connection to the sea.

These efforts have included a popular Ocean Photo Contest and a Haiku Contest, inviting participants of all ages to express their appreciation for the ocean through pictures and words.

DNREC has also collected and shared personal ocean stories from Delaware residents, capturing the deep and diverse ways people experience and value the ocean in their daily lives.

These storytelling and arts-based activities have fostered a sense of connection, stewardship and shared responsibility for protecting Delaware’s coastal and marine environments.

2025 Voices of the Tide: Stories of Connection with the Ocean

In 2025, DNREC invited Delawareans to share their ocean connection stories to celebrate the natural wonders of the ocean and honor our history.

Delaware has a rich cultural and maritime history, and many who have called Delaware home have always been connected to the sea.

DNREC collected stories — and optional personal photographs — about how participants fell in love with the ocean or how they rely on it.

Submissions were brought together into a Voices of the Tide story catalog for viewing.

2024 Haiku Poetry Contest

In partnership with libraries across all three counties, DNREC hosted haiku poetry contest in 2024 inviting Delawareans of all ages to express “What I Love About the Ocean” in just 17 syllables.

The contest saw enthusiastic participation, with entries displayed in local libraries and at the Delaware State Fair.

Winners were featured in DNREC’s Outdoor Delaware magazine and awarded prize packs.

The first-place winner in the adult category, Scott Walls of Greenwood, drew inspiration from his research on whale ecology, while youth winner Spencer Rapson of Bear was influenced by the documentary My Octopus Teacher.

2023 Ocean Photo Contest

DNREC launched an Ocean Photo Contest in 2023 inviting Delawareans to capture the beauty and importance of the state’s marine environments.

The contest celebrated ocean wildlife, scenic views and human connections to the coast. Angela Flynn of Lewes won with her striking “Crabtivating” photo, highlighting a close encounter with a crab at Herring Point.

Related Topics:  climate coastal energy, coastal programs, ocean, ocean and coasts, ocean month, photography, poetry, story telling