DEEP reinstates summer ban on alcohol at seven CT recreational spots

A ban on alcohol has been reimposed at seven recreation areas in Connecticut this summer, state officials said.

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has reimposed the temporary bans as a safety measure meant to deter illegal activity and trespassing from June 9 through Sept. 6.

The bans will be in effect at Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield; Gardner Lake State Park and state boat launch in Salem; Quaddick State Park in Thompson; Lake Waramaug State Park in New Preston; the upper section of Paugussett State Forest and George Waldo State Park in Southbury; and the Beach Pond state launch in Voluntown and Billings Lake state boat in North Stonington, which both include part of the Pachaug State Forest.

According to DEEP, these spots have seen increased amounts of alcohol consumption, leading to "incidents of misconduct, unruly behavior, property damage, trespass and complaints by other visitors and the surrounding communities" in recent summers.

"Connecticut's state parks, forests, and boat launches should be peaceful and family-oriented places where visitors can feel welcome and safe while enjoying the 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."

A full list of state parks or other locations where alcohol is prohibited is available online.

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