There will be fewer lifeguards soon at Squantz Pond State Park in New Fairfield.  The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection says their budget was reduced by about $10 million for the coming fiscal year, so they've had to take several steps to reduce costs. 

DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee says they can lower operating expenses through some efficiencies.  The moves now will result in about $1.8 million in savings. 

Among the changes being rolled out soon after Independence Day weekend is an adjustment in days and hours of operations and services at campgrounds, beaches and museums.  Squantz Pond and other inland parks will have life guard coverage between three and five days per week, including weekends, as opposed to the current seven day a week guard coverage. 

Putnam Park in Bethel/Redding will soon see the Visitors Center open only on weekends. 

At less visited sites, there will be less frequent lawn mowing and other maintenance work.  Klee says they are continuing to analyze park operations to identify more potential savings, and expect to take additional cost cutting steps in next Spring.