DEEP Reinstates Temporary Alcohol Ban At Nine State Recreation Areas Including Southbury

SOUTHBURY, CT — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is reinstating a temporary alcohol ban at nine state recreation areas, including the upper section of Paugussett State Forest and George Waldo State Park in Southbury.

The prohibition will run from Tuesday, Aug. 19, through Sunday, Nov. 16. Other affected sites include Beach Pond State Boat Launch in Voluntown; Billings Lake State Boat Launch in North Stonington; Gardner Lake State Park and State Boat Launch in Salem; Lake Waramaug State Park in New Preston; Naugatuck State Forest in Naugatuck, Oxford and Beacon Falls; Quaddick State Park in Thompson; Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield; and Pattaconk Recreation Area in Chester.

The ban follows a summer pattern of increased crowds, alcohol use and related problems, including disorderly conduct, property damage, trespassing and complaints from other visitors and nearby residents.

A similar temporary measure was implemented in May, which officials said gave Environmental Conservation Police an effective tool to maintain safety and order at the sites.

“DEEP works to ensure that Connecticut’s outdoor recreation areas are peaceful, family friendly places where visitors can feel safe and welcome,” DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said. “This temporary alcohol ban, combined with education and enforcement by EnCon officers, will help make state parks, forests, and boat launches safe and enjoyable for all.”