Press Releases
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