Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection

Emergency Burn Ban In Effect 10/26/24 - An emergency burn ban is now in effect for all Connecticut State Parks, Forests, and Wildlife Management areas, prohibiting the use of all outdoor grills, firepits, and campfires, and the kindling and use of flame outdoors. DEEP and local agencies are working to contain several active fires across the state. Please avoid all affected State Parks and Forests, as well as the blue-blazed Mattabesett Trail. The Enduro Trail in Voluntown and portions of North Stonington within the Pachaug State Forest are closed at this time. Rocky Neck State Park is also closed until further notice due to a brush fire. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at a 'very high' or 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Help Others Learn About Fishing
Donate Equipment or Money to the CARE Fishing Program

Fishing is one of the oldest and most popular outdoor sports that can be done anytime of day, in any weather, during any season, and almost anywhere. The equipment used can be very simple and inexpensive. And fishing is FUN!

The Connecticut Aquatic Resources Education (CARE) Program teaches young and old the basics of fishing. Participants learn about fish identification, which tackle to use, and even how to cook fish. Sponsored by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s Fisheries Division, the CARE Program goes beyond teaching students fishing skills. Volunteer instructors teach fishing ethics, water safety, and conservation. Most of the CARE Program equipment is donated, and most instructors are volunteers. View more information about the CARE Program.

You can contribute to purchasing equipment for the Program directly by sending a check payable to "DEEP-CARE Program" to:

Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
Bureau of Financial and Support Services
79 Elm Street
Hartford, CT 06106

Environmental Gift Giving Guide