State Park In Middletown Among 7 Included In Temporary Alcohol Ban

MIDDLETOWN, CT — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has reissued a temporary alcohol ban for seven state recreation areas, including one which encompasses Middletown and Middlefield.

Wadsworth Falls State Park is among the sites included in the ban, which became effective Tuesday and extends through Nov. 10. Other locations are 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, Paugussett State Forest (upper section)/George Waldo State Park in Southbury and Quaddick State Forest in Thompson.

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, according to a news release from the DEEP.

"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," DEEP Commissioner Katie Dykes said in the release.