The Lattins Cove state boat launch is closed and parking capacity is limited to 50% at Squantz Cove state boat launch beginning today.  Environmental Conservation officers will increase outreach and monitoring to deter and identify gatherings on the water and at state boat launches. 

The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection says these precautionary measures are being put in place due to the significant uptick in new COVID-19 infections over the last two weeks in Danbury.  These measures will be in place for at least two weeks, but may be extended or increased based on the continued prevalence of behaviors inconsistent with COVID-19 social gathering and prevention guidelines. 

There have been numerous reports of “rafting,” on Candlewood Lake, where several boats tie-up together in a mass gathering, as well as large gatherings on the islands, which have been closed to the public since August 1. Whether on water or on land, DEEP is reminding people of the continued importance of following social distancing guidelines, including wearing masks and limits on the size of outdoor gatherings. 

DEEP says when there are these kinds of upticks, the state is taking swift action to maintain hard-won progress in fighting the disease.