The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has recently introduced a temporary alcohol ban in several recreational areas. This ban will be in effect until Monday, August 12th. The affected areas include the following:
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- Beach Pond State Boat Launch in Voluntown, New London County (including a part of Pachaug State Forest);
- Billings Lake State Boat Launch in North Stonington, New London County (also including a part of Pachaug State Forest);
- Gardner Lake State Park and State Boat Launch in Salem, New London County;
- Lake Waramaug State Park in New Preston, Litchfield County;
- George Waldo State Park and the upper section of the Paugussett State Forest in Southbury, New Haven County;
- Quaddick State Park in Thompson, Windham County; and
- Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield, Middlesex County.
The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced a ban on alcohol consumption at several state parks. The decision was made in response to a rise in incidents of misconduct, unruly behavior, property damage, and trespassing during the summer months.
The decision to prohibit alcohol for the summer was influenced by a rise in complaints from both visitors and the local communities.
Moreover, the department has emphasized that the ban provides DEEP law enforcement officers with a practical means to discourage and deter any improper conduct within the recreational parks across the state.
According to a statement from DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes, the intention behind Connecticut’s state parks, forests, and boat launches is to create a peaceful and family-friendly environment where visitors can feel both welcome and safe while enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
DEEP staff and law enforcement officers will continue to provide supervision and education to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to these public spaces for citizens of all ages.
