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. Please note that today's forest fire danger report remains at an 'extreme' level. More information about the current fire danger, burn ban and recommended safety measures can be found here

Press Releases

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02/14/2019

DEEP to Host Make Your Own Reusable Bag Workshop

Looking for an alternative to plastic bags? The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection’s (DEEP) Kellogg Environmental Center in Derby is hosting a Make Your Own Reusable Bag Workshop on Monday, February 18 from 10:00 am – 1:30 pm. During the workshop participants will learn how to repurpose t-shirts and/or pillow cases into useable shopping bags. Those attending are encouraged to bring one or more t-shirts/pillow cases to convert into shopping bags. We will have some options on hand from local thrift stores, but encourage those attending to upcycle items from their own home. Supplies for cutting, embellishing, and finishing your bag will be provided.  There are several no sewing styles that participants can try out to see which work best for them. All skill levels and ages are welcome. 
“Parents looking for a fun and easy way to teach their children about recycling and environmental stewardship are encourage to attend DEEP’s Make Your Own Reusable Bag Workshop. This is a perfect day off activity for children and adults looking for ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle. When discarded plastic bags are not properly disposed of they can pose hazards to wildlife or clog up our recycling infrastructure,” said DEEP Commissioner-designee Katie Dykes. “Events such as this are another reason why Connecticut’s state parks are amongst the best value for Connecticut families looking for fun and educational activities.”

Registration is required and a donation of $5.00 is requested. Refreshments will be provided.  This is a drop in activity and craft, so adults must stay and work with their children on making a bag.
The Kellogg Environmental Center, a facility of the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection State Parks Division, is open 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Tuesday through Saturday. It is located at 500 Hawthorne Avenue, Derby. For further information or directions please phone the Kellogg Environmental Center at 203-734-2513 or email donna.kingston@ct.gov.
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