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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08/15/2024

DEEP Reissues Alcohol Ban for Seven State Recreation Areas

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

(HARTFORD) — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has reissued a temporary alcohol ban for seven state recreation areas. This ban is in effect from Tuesday, August 13, 2024, through Sunday, November 10, 2024, at the following locations:

The existing 90-day alcohol ban implemented for the Naugatuck State Forest, which includes the areas commonly known as Seymour Reservoirs #1, #2, #3 and #4 and the lands immediately surrounding the reservoirs, is still in effect.

In recent years, 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. This year’s bans have helped curtail unsafe behaviors and allowed these locations to be more welcoming and safe outdoor recreation destinations. With that in mind, DEEP has determined enacting an additional 90-day ban at these locations is in the interest of public safety.

“DEEP encourages responsible outdoor recreation, and this measure helps to ensure that Connecticut’s state parks, forests, and boat launches are welcoming and family friendly outdoor spaces,” said DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes.

A temporary alcohol ban provides DEEP’s Environmental Conservation Police with an enforcement 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