A new alcohol ban imposed by the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) will affect two popular Southbury recreation areas this summer. George Waldo State Park and the upper section of Paugussett State Forest are among nine state-owned locations where alcohol is now prohibited through August 18.
The measure, announced by DEEP on Wednesday, May 21, is aimed at curbing unruly behavior, trespassing, and other illegal activity that has increased in recent summers, especially in heavily trafficked outdoor areas.
In a statement, DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said, “Enacting this measure will help ensure the safety of others and promote an atmosphere in our Connecticut State Parks and Forests which is enjoyable and meaningful to residents of all ages.”
The other recreation areas taking on the alcohol ban include:
- 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
- Naugatuck State Forest, Naugatuck, Oxford, and Beacon Falls, to include the areas commonly known as Seymour Reservoirs #1, #2, #3, and #4 and the lands immediately surrounding the reservoirs
- Quaddick State Park, Thompson
- Wadsworth Falls State Park, Middletown and Middlefield
- Pattaconk Recreation Area, Chester
The Southbury Record 