Alcohol Ban Returns To Oxford Park

OXFORD, CT — Alcohol will again be prohibited at reservoir areas of Naugatuck State Forest that extend into Oxford under a temporary state order beginning Tuesday.

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection reissued the alcohol ban for the area through Nov. 15. It covers Seymour Reservoirs 1, 2, 3 and 4, along with the land immediately surrounding them, in Oxford, Naugatuck and Beacon Falls.

The Naugatuck State Forest restriction is one of 10 temporary alcohol bans DEEP reissued Monday at state parks, forests and boat launches across Connecticut.

DEEP had imposed seasonal restrictions at the sites from May 20 through Monday, citing increased crowding and alcohol consumption that officials said had contributed to misconduct, unruly behavior, property damage, trespassing and complaints from visitors and nearby communities.

The renewed order takes effect Aug. 18 and runs through Sunday, Nov. 15.

Acting DEEP Commissioner Emma Cimino said the restrictions are intended to help conservation police and park staff maintain a safe and welcoming experience for visitors.

Other locations covered by the reissued order include Gardner Lake State Park and State Boat Launch in Salem; George Waldo State Park in Southbury; Wadsworth Falls State Park in Middletown and Middlefield; Lake Waramaug State Park; Quaddick State Park; Beach Pond Boat Launch; Billings Lake Boat Launch; Pattaconk Recreation Area; and part of Rocky Neck State Park.