Connecticut State Police and Encon Police Officers from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection are partnering to step up patrols at state boat launches across Connecticut.
Putting the safety of the public first, Troopers and Officers will work together to ensure that those utilizing state boat launches are not overusing these areas. State-owned boat launches are to be utilized only for launching a private vessel or personal watercraft. The area surrounding the launches are not to be used for picnicking, camping, or swimming; those activities are prohibited at the launches.
The hot weather, in combination with coronavirus restrictions, have caused an increase in the use of private vessels and personal watercraft throughout Connecticut. Parking lots at all state-owned boat launches have limited parking. Boaters are urged to safely unload their boats and operate them in a safe manner on the state waterways.
Also, a reminder from DEEP that the possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited at state boat launches. There are no trash receptacles at boat launches, so patrons must carry out what they carry in to keep the area free of litter.
For more information on regulations regarding boat launches, please visit: https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Boating/Boating-and-Paddling