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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05/15/2024

DEEP Re-imposes Alcohol Ban for Seven Recreation Areas

Measure to Ensure Safety, Curtail Trespass, and Reduce Illegal Activity

(HARTFORD) — The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has imposed a temporary alcohol ban for seven state recreation areas. This ban is in effect from Wednesday, May 15, through Monday, August 12, at the following locations:

  • Beach Pond State Boat Launch, Voluntown, including a portion of Pachaug State Forest
  • Billings Lake State Boat Launch, North Stonington, including a portion of Pachaug State Forest
  • Gardner Lake State Park and State Boat Launch, Salem
  • Lake Waramaug State Park, New Preston
  • Paugussett State Forest (upper section)/George Waldo State Park, Southbury
  • Quaddick State Park, Thompson
  • Wadsworth Falls State Park, Middletown/Middlefield

In recent summers, these locations have experienced increased crowds and alcohol consumption, which led to increased incidents of misconduct, unruly behavior, property damage, trespass, and complaints by other visitors and the surrounding communities.

“Connecticut’s state parks, forests, and boat launches should be peaceful and family-oriented places where visitors can feel welcome and safe while recreating outdoors,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes. “This measure, combined with continued supervision and education by DEEP staff and law enforcement officers, will help ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to these public spaces by citizens of all ages.”

"Our aim is to address the ongoing concerns of area residents on Gardner Lake, reports of overcrowding, and ensure improved safety of its visitors by temporarily banning alcohol at the park. I am grateful to DEEP for renewing this ban and will continue to work with them to implement the measures necessary to keep everyone safe when enjoying the park.” said State Representative Holly Cheeseman, R-Salem.

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 approach to make state parks, forests, and boat launches safe and enjoyable for all.

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Contact

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