HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC Radio)_ The State Department of Energy and Environmental Protection is extending an alcohol ban for the Beach Pond State Boat Launch and a portion of Pachaug State Forest in Voluntown.
The alcohol ban was originally implemented on July 10 after a pattern of public tresspassing and illegal access to off-trail areas, private property, and Pachaug State Forest land. Littering has also been detected.
The DEEP's extension of the alcohol ban now includes an extended portion of the Beach Pond shoreline as well as parts of Pachaug State Forest, directly adjacent to the Beach Pond State Boat Launch.
Since June at the Beach Pond Boat Launch property, the DEEP has issued at least four parking violations, eight boating violations, eight verbal warnings for boating biolations, two D.U.I. arrests, evicted 47 people from the private property, and terminated several voyages.
Effective on Wednesday, September 2, the ban remains in effect for an additional 90 days.
There will be an increased DEEP law enforcement presence as the agency seeks to keep the area safe and enjoyable for people who use the land legally and responsibly.