State Imposes Alcohol Ban At North Stonington Recreation Area

NORTH STONINGTON, CT — The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has announced a temporary alcohol ban for seven state recreation areas including one in North Stonington.

The ban went into effect Wednesday and will last until Aug. 12.

The ban includes Billings Lake State Boat Launch, North Stonington, including a portion of Pachaug State Forest.

In recent summers, the seven locations where bans went into effect 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, according to the department.

“Connecticut’s state parks, forests, and boat launches should be peaceful and family-oriented places where visitors can feel welcome and safe while recreating outdoors,” said Commissioner Katie Dykes said in a statement. “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 temporary alcohol ban provides DEEP’s law enforcement officers with an enforceable tool to dissuade inappropriate use of the state outdoor recreation areas and has been an effective approach to make state parks, forests, and boat launches safe and enjoyable for all.