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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07/28/2021

DEEP Imposes Alcohol Ban for Billings Lake Boat Launch Area

(HARTFORD, CT) – The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has enacted a temporary alcohol ban for the state’s Billings Lake Boat Launch area in North Stonington.  This ban is in effect immediately and for the next 90 days. 

This action is necessitated by a continued pattern of public trespass and illegal access to off-trail areas on private property and State Forest land, as well as the associated misuse and littering of these areas and the negative impact on other users engaged in legal and responsible recreation.  Since June 2020, DEEP Environmental Conservation Officers and the Connecticut State Police have responded to several disorderly conduct events and assaults at the boat ramp and adjacent properties.  Many of these calls for service involved the consumption of alcohol while in and around this property.

The applicable area includes the Billings Lake Boat Launch out to private property south and west of the launch and extends north and east to a portion of Pachaug State Forest (See map).  Appropriate signage is being posted to inform visitors of the ban. 

A temporary alcohol ban provides DEEP’s law enforcement officers with an enforceable tool to dissuade inappropriate use of the state outdoor recreation areas and has been an effective tool employed to reduce negative behaviors and make state parks, forests, and boat launches safe and enjoyable for all.

“We want our parks, forests, boat launches, and waters to be peaceful, family-oriented places where adults and children can feel welcome and safe,” said Mason Trumble, Deputy Commissioner for Environmental Conservation. “This measure, combined with continued supervision and education by DEEP staff and officers, will help restore a welcoming and safe atmosphere for all.”

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Contact

DEEP Communications  
DEEP.communications@ct.gov
860-424-3110