FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The beach during a King tide.
How does the State of Rhode Island classify the Kickemuit River?
The RI Coastal Resources Management Council classifies the Kickemuit River as a Type 2 Waterway for low-intensity recreational and residential use. Marinas are prohibited in Type 2 waters. The presence of a dock, float or combination of facilities that accommodate five or more recreational boats would be considered a marina.
What is the Water Quality Classification for the “Kicky”?
The RI Department of Environmental Management classifies the Kickemuit River as SA (Saltwater Class A) which means it is suitable for bating and contact recreation, shellfish harvesting for human consumption, and fish and wildlife habitat.
Are the shellfish beds open?
The Kicky is considered out of compliance with its classification and closed to shell fishing after half an inch of rain.
Call the RIDEM Hotline to get 24/7 info: 401-222-4900
What else to know before going shellfishing?
Check out Rhode Island’s Recreational Harvest Guide.
What’s the tide?
What’s the weather NOW?
What Is the Shoreline Access Law in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island's shoreline access law, signed in 2023, grants the public the right to access the shore up to 10 feet landward from the "recognizable high tide line," also known as the wrack line. The wrack line is defined as the line of seaweed, scum, and other deposits left by the highest tide. If there's no seaweed line, access extends to the line of wet beach.
This means that the public can access the LPIA beach and marshland from the river or move laterally across the shore following the guidelines noted above. For more information, visit the RI Coastal Resources Management Council webpage.
Know Before You Go: Personal Floatation Devices
Wearing a lifejacket /personal floatation device (PFD) is now required of all users of paddle craft including kayaks, canoes, sailboards, kiteboards and paddleboards. Violations could result in the imposition of a $100 ticket. The state regulation requires a United States Coast Guard-approved PFD while underway regardless of age. For more information, see the Handbook of Rhode Island Boating Laws and Responsibilities on the RI Department of Environmental Management webpage.