Klarides-Ditria: DEEP says state parks, boat launches to provide full services in 2021

The Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) recently announced that Connecticut’s State Parks system and boat launches are planning to return to providing full services to visitors during the 2021 season, with some state campgrounds already accepting reservations.

Personal and group compliance with COVID-19 precautions, mask wearing, and maintaining social distance practices will be essential to the safety of park visitors and staff, and DEEP’s ability to ensure maximum safe access to these valuable resources.

There is a current 200-person limit for outdoor group activities in Connecticut, which may be further adjusted throughout the recreation season. Most park buildings, museums, nature centers, and other enclosed structures, including restrooms, will be opened on Memorial Day weekend. 

Six feet of social distancing must be maintained at all times while inside park buildings, along with adhering to mask wearing requirements. Visitors who do not abide by these rules may be asked to leave state park property.

For a list of every state park in Connecticut, please visit portal.ct.gov/DEEP/State-Parks/Listing-of-State-Parks.

The following is a summary of outdoor services and amenities at various locations administered by DEEP:
Swimming permitted at shoreline and inland state parks based on DEEP’s assessment that visitors to Connecticut State Park beaches can be accommodated in conformance with public health guidance. While masks should not be worn during active swimming, masks can be used by individuals engaged in wading at water levels below the waist and is encouraged when wading areas are crowded and continuous distancing is not possible.
Lifeguards will be on duty at DEEP’s eight inland and all shoreline beaches if adequate staffing recruitment allows. DEEP anticipates lifeguard crews will begin working on Memorial Day weekend. Beaches without lifeguards will be posted with signage that reads, “No lifeguards on duty.” Lifeguards will be provided training to reduce the risk of virus transmission in the course of their duties, including providing CPR.
State park and forest campgrounds, rustic cabins, youth group, river camping, and backpack camping sites will open during the spring for the 2021 season on a reservation-only basis. The campground reservation system is open for new campground and cabin reservations. These decisions are based on current public health guidance, cleaning protocols and the availability of adequate staff and appropriate PPE. Any changes to these expectations may result in adjustments to camping opportunities. Group campsite renters are responsible for being aware of and complying with current guidelines on mask wearing and group size.
Permanent food concessions will operate at Rocky Neck, Hammonasset Beach, Gillette Castle, Silver Sands, and Sherwood Island State Parks, and are scheduled to open on May 29, 2021. Visitors are required to follow social distancing signage and must maintain six feet of separation while standing in line.
Public restroom and bathhouse facilities will open on Memorial Day weekend. Portable toilets are available in certain other locations. The public is reminded to carry hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

State boat launches will continue to remain open to the public. The use of a state boat launch is low risk and can be safely utilized when patrons follow commonsense safety practices, such as social distancing and wearing face coverings. Environmental Conservation Police Officers and Boating Division staff will be monitoring activities at state boat launches to ensure social distancing compliance. If the public health strategies provided on signage are not complied with, staff will advise and educate users or take additional actions, as necessary.
The Boating Division expects heavy demand for boating access again in 2021. Boat launch capacity closures will continue to be announced through Twitter (@CTBoatingInfo). 

Boaters are encouraged to check the Boating Division’s Twitter account before heading out. The Boating Division will continue to be active on social media to highlight the smaller, out-of-the-way launches to encourage boaters – especially paddlers – to take advantage of all 117 launches. The Boating Division website contains information and directions for all 117 state boat launches.

For more information or to read the full press release, please click here.

In a concurrent announcement, the governor said $2 million in state funding is anticipated to be approved Friday, April 16, by the State Bond Commission. 

Those funds will be used to fund statewide repairs and maintenance works at Connecticut state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas.

Examples of projects that will be funded through this bond allocation include:
grading and filling of gravel roads;
building repairs such as roof, window and door replacement; heating and ventilation system repairs; plumbing, electrical and water system repairs, toilet building, maintenance facility and minor building repairs;
replacement of picnic tables, grilles, fire rings and other park and campground amenities;
timber rails, decking materials, grading and filling of parking areas; and security gates, including replacement materials.

Sincerely,

DEEP to announce 2016 winners at Kellogg Environmental Center in Derby

'The Sky's the Limit' hiking challenge

DERBY - Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will announce the winners of 2016 Hiking Challenge - “The Sky’s the Limit” at the First Day Hike at 1 p.m. Sunday at Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Ave. 

A total of 168 people successfully hiked all 14 locations of “The Sky’s the Limit” Challenge that highlighted bodies of water: lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, canals, wetlands and Long Island Sound and they are eligible to receive a hand-crafted walking stick made by Connecticut Wood Carvers Association. 
Fifty names will be drawn at 3 p.m. after the First Day Hike to determine the winners. 
Over 300 participants hiked at least 10 of the designated locations and received a hiking staff medallion and certificate. 
"DEEP held this hiking competition for the second time this year that encouraged families and friends to enjoy Connecticut’s state parks and forests any time of the year,” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. "We learned that people like to participate in friendly competition to win prizes and by the high number of hikers who joined in we know the program was a success.”

Success Stories

“The Sky’s the Limit” has taken on a life of its own. Participants have created letterboxes and geocaches to support the adventure. 

This year showed how technology can be incorporated into the challenge by tracking your hike using an app. Some people are much more competitive than others - one man accomplished 10 hikes in four weeks. 

"Some participants who carried their children the first year, now have toddlers who are walking to join the adventure,” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee.  Or as someone wrote to us and said – ‘Sky’s the Limit’ renewed your mutual love for the outdoors and this beautiful state because of the challenges along the way’ - the hope is that people will continue their ‘adventure’ in 2017.”

Background on “The Sky’s the Limit”

      Participants hiked any number of designated 14 state parks and forests in Connecticut throughout 2016 and took two photos – one of themselves at a state park or forest sign and one at each location they hiked.  Photos were emailed to DEEP for verification. The program began in 2015 to encourage exploration of Connecticut’s State Parks and Forests and help people discover the unique historical, cultural and natural resources in the beautiful state of Connecticut. 

The new challenge for 2017 will involve hiking to historic locations. Photos from the DEEP State Park archives are being posted on the website and participants will be asked to take current photos from the same location. For more information:  www.ct.gov/deep/SkystheLimit

This is a press release from Connecticut DEEP.

Osbornedale State Park in Derby to hold First Day Hike

All 50 state park systems offer free guided treks Jan. 1

Kellogg Environmental Center / Photo from DEEP website

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection joins America's State Parks and all 50 state park systems for free, guided First Day Hike Programs on New Year’s Day 2016.  

This year DEEP offers the following guided First Day Hikes: 

Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Ave., Derby, 1 p.m., moderate, 2.5-mile hike of Osbornedale State Park.  Sponsored by CT State Parks & Public Outreach.  
Contact:  Diane Joy, diane.joy@ct.gov, 203-734-2513.  Awards ceremony at 3 p.m. for winners of the 2015 “Sky’s the Limit” Hiking Challenge.  

Hammonasset Beach State Park, 1288 Boston Post Road, Madison, 1 p.m., easy, one hour hike, meet at Meigs Point Nature Center. Sponsored by Friends of the Office of State Archaeology and Friends of Hammonasset.  
Contact:  Don Rankin, 203-245-9192

Mansfield Hollow State Park, Bassett’s Bridge Rd., Mansfield, CT, 11 a.m. (arrive by 10:45 a.m.), moderate, 2 hikes - 4.5 mile and 2.2 mile, meet in the Mansfield Hollow Recreation Area parking lot. Sponsored by Friends of Mansfield Hollow.  
Contact: Ron Manizza, 860-428-3667, pedlinron@gmail.com  

Scantic River State Park, Melrose Road, East Windsor, 1 p.m., moderate, 2.5 mile hike, two hours, meet in parking lot at end of Melrose Road off Broad Brook Road. Sponsored by East Windsor American Heritage River Commission.  Contact:  ahriver@sbcglobal.net 

Sleeping Giant State Park, 200 Mt. Carmel Ave., Hamden, 1:30 p.m. (arrive by 1:15 p.m.), strenuous, 1 ½ hr. and 2 ½ hr. hikes, meet at the bulletin board by the kiosk. Sponsored by Sleeping Giant Park Association.  
Contact:  hike_the_giant@yahoo.com 

State park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which average one to two miles or longer depending on the state park.  
For details on hikes in all 50 states visit America’s State Parks website, http://www.naspd.org/first-day-hikes-in-americas-state-parks-offer-invigorating-start-to-new-year/        

“With seasonably cold and dry weather predicted for New Year’s Day - taking a hike with your family and friends is a great way to begin the New Year,” said Robert Klee, DEEP Commissioner.  

“Whether you join DEEP for a guided hike or venture out on your own, you will not be disappointed in the variety of hiking trails that Connecticut has to offer. Our state has hundreds of miles of trails ready for you as you celebrate the first day of 2016.” 

“Studies have proven that getting outdoors is one good way to relax and recharge the body, mind and spirit,” said Lewis Ledford, NASPD’s Executive Director.   
“We hope that hiking along a trail in a state park will become part of an individual’s or family’s regular exercise routine.” 

America’s State Parks First Day Hikes offers individuals and families an opportunity to begin the New Year rejuvenating and connecting with the outdoors by taking a healthy hike on Jan. 1, 2016 at a state park.  
First Day Hikes provide a great way to get outside, exercise, enjoy nature and welcome the New Year with friends and family. 

“Last year, we hosted 41,000 people who hiked 79,442 miles in our state parks across the country when we launched America’s State Parks First Day Hikes,” said Priscilla Geigis, President of the National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD).  “Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle, for the whole family. Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of America’s State Parks on New Year’s Day.”    

First Day Hikes originated over 20 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation, a state park in Milton, Mass.  
The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year round recreation at state parks.  Last year marked the first time all 50 state park systems have joined together to sponsor First Day Hikes.

CT DEEP joins America's State Parks in their commitment to promoting outdoor recreation in state parks as a way to address obesity, especially among children.  
Getting kids outside and unplugged from video games and other electronic media creates a unique connection with nature that promotes physical and mental well-being and encourages creativity and stewardship of our shared resources.

The mission of the NASPD and America's State Parks is to promote and advance the state park systems of America for their own significance, as well as for their important contributions to the nation’s environment, heritage, health and economy.  

This is a press release from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

DEEP to announce hiking challenge winners at Kellogg Center in Derby

DERBY - Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection will announce the winners of 2015 Hiking Challenge -“The Sky’s the Limit” at the First Day Hike at 1 p.m. Friday (Jan. 1) at Kellogg Environmental Center, 500 Hawthorne Ave.

A total of 234 people successfully hiked all 14 of Connecticut’s highest peaks and are eligible to receive a hand-crafted walking stick made by Connecticut Wood Carvers Association. 

Fifty names will be drawn at 3 p.m. after the First Day Hike to determine the winners. 
More than 400 participants hiked at least 10 of the designated locations and received a hiking staff medallion and certificate.

“DEEP held this hiking competition for the first time this year that encouraged families and friends to enjoy Connecticut’s state parks and forests any time of the year,” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. 
 “We learned that people like to participate in friendly competition to win prizes and by the high number of hikers who joined in we know the program was a success.”

Success Stories
The stories told by the participants proved that in this time of giving sometimes just an outstretched hand can be the best present of all. 
One father shared his story of what this challenge meant to him and his very special little boy. http://www.ctmq.org/tstl9-macedonia-brook-state-park/ “At some point, I had to hold his hand to get him up the incline. I didn’t really let go until the summit… probably a good quarter mile of hand-holding. He didn’t fight me with it (very unusual.) When I’d let go to wipe the sweat or whatever, he’d silently reach out his hand again, accepting of my help.”
Sometimes we all just need a helping hand.

Others told us how fathers and daughters reconnected by doing the hikes, about a marriage proposal, how walking in the woods benefited a man dealing with “seasonal affective disorder” and inspired him to visit all the state parks and perhaps write a book about his adventures! 
Young, and young at heart, who completed this challenge were very proud of their accomplishments and were amazed to see all the beauty that exists in Connecticut’s state parks and forests.

After hectic preparations for the holidays hopefully as Rachel Carson stated: “Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will ensure as long as life lasts. There is something infinitely healing in the repeated refrains of nature - the assurance that dawn comes after night, and spring after winter.” 
Hopefully, we will all take time to enjoy the refrains of nature and renew our spirit.

Background on “The Sky’s the Limit"
Participants were required to hike any number of designated 14 peaks in Connecticut throughout 2015 and take two photos – one of themselves at a state park or forest sign and one at each location they hiked. Photos were emailed to DEEP for verification.

The 14 peaks were located in either a state park or forest and were located throughout the state.
Plans are currently underway to develop a new challenge for 2016.

For more information: www.ct.gov/deep/SkystheLimit.


This is a press release from the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.

DEEP: Fewer lifeguards at state swimming areas

Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection today reminded state park visitors that the number of lifeguards at state park swimming areas will be significantly reduced as the end of the summer swimming season fast approaches. 

At this time of year, many lifeguards leave their positions to return to school, but the DEEP maintains coverage wherever possible through Labor Day weekend.  
After Labor Day, Sept. 7, there will be no lifeguards on duty at any of Connecticut’s state park swimming areas.

"With the last summer days of swimming fast approaching, the DEEP encourages everyone to enjoy the outdoors, and use sound judgment when swimming at Connecticut’s state park beaches,” said DEEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Whalen. 
"With a reduced number of lifeguards on duty as the summer winds down, remember to stay within designated swimming areas, parents watch your children, and don't drink alcohol then swim." 

Weekday Coverage, Aug. 26-Sept. 4

Most of the state park swimming areas are unguarded weekdays from now through Labor Day. Swim areas will be posted with signs where there are no lifeguards on duty. 

Weekends and Holidays

Lifeguards will be on duty at the following state parks this weekend and Labor Day Weekend:

Hammonasset Beach State Park, Madison-East Beach

Squantz Pond State Park, New Fairfield

During the summer season, DEEP maintains lifeguards at the following eight state park designated swimming areas:

Hammonasset Beach– Madison

Rocky Neck – East Lyme

Sherwood Island – Westport

Silver Sands – Milford

Black Rock – Watertown

Burr Pond – Torrington

Indian Well – Shelton

Squantz Pond – New Fairfield


This is a press release from the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection. 

DEEP offers safety tips for outdoor recreation

With the July 4th holiday weekend upon us, the 2015 summer outdoor recreation season is in full swing and Connecticut’s Department of Energy and Environmental Protection urges residents and visitors to enjoy Connecticut’s outdoors – but to do so safely.

“Our 109 state parks and 32 state forests are ready for summer visitors and opportunities for families to enjoy the great outdoors. We also have 118 state boat launches to get you onto your favorite waterbody.” said DEEP Commissioner Robert Klee. 
“No matter what your favorite activity – hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, picnicking or simply soaking in some peace and quiet – Connecticut offers many convenient, safe, and attractive places to visit. We encourage families to visit our parks, forests, and waterways as often as they can this summer and to observe all the rules that are posted as well as all common sense safety precautions. We want everyone to have a positive experience in the outdoors.”

Safe Boating
When it comes to boating, Connecticut offers it all - streams, rivers, lakes and Long Island Sound, which offer a wide variety of opportunities for boaters. DEEP offers the following safety tips for those going out on the water. Visit: www.ct.gov/deep/boating
Take a boatin or canoe/kayak safety class – a boating certificate is required to operate a registered boat.

Double check the condition of all water and fuel hoses and their connections as part of your pre-safety boat check. Also be sure to file a float plan. You can find apps for that! It allows you to send a float plan to a friend or family member.

Obtain a free Vessel Safety Check – contact the DEEP Boating Division or your local USCG Auxiliary and US Power Squadron. If you use a state boat launch, look for our Boating Education Assistants who will perform a free safety check.

Wear Your Life Jacket - Statistics show that more than three-quarters of the people that died in boating accidents between 2010 and 2014 drowned. Of those, 90% were not wearing a life jacket. Life jackets are more comfortable and lightweight than ever. Putting one on before heading out could save your life, so “Wear It Connecticut!”

In our cooler Northeast waters, someone that falls in the water can lose their ability to perform necessary life-saving functions quite quickly. Falling into colder waters also invokes an involuntary gasp reflex – a number one cause of drowning.

When waterskiing/tubing shut the engine off when putting someone in the water, switching out equipment or retrieving the person. Always approach person in the water from driver’s side. Make sure there is a spotter who understands the importance of their job to watch the skier/tuber at all times and communicate immediately to the operator if the person falls off or signals they want to stop.

Drink responsibly – alcohol was a contributing factor for 47% of the victims that died in Connecticut boating accidents between 2008 and 2012. Sun, wind, noise, vibration, and motion are all considered "stressors" common to the boating environment. They intensify the effects of alcohol, drugs, and some medications by causing fatigue, which greatly reduces a boat operator's coordination, judgment, and reaction time. The use of alcohol also makes the body more susceptible to the effects of cold water.

Follow us on Facebook at BoatingInConnecticut.

Follow us on Twitter @CTBoatngInfo or DEEP Boating. We will be tweeting timely information on boat ramp status (temporary closures when at capacity, etc.), pumpout facility information and upcoming boating classes.

Safe Swimming
DEEP offers 23 designated state park swim areas – four on Long Island Sound and 19 inland lakes and ponds. www.ct.gov/deep/beachstatu.
There are also many municipal swim areas throughout the state

The following safety tips should be observed by those headed to the beach:

Swim in designated areas - Connecticut State Parks offer many swimming opportunities, from small swimming holes amid hiking trails, to expansive open water swimming in Long Island Sound. Designated swimming areas offer certain layers of protection: from ensuring water quality, to identifying a five foot water depth, to protecting swimmers from boating traffic, and to oversight by highly trained lifeguards. Please swim in these areas whenever possible.

Be aware that underwater hazards exist and NEVER dive in head first - the natural beauty of these swimming areas extends under the water. Unlike the smooth level bottom of swimming pools, lakes/ponds and the Long Island Sound have uneven bottoms, with potential drop-offs, sand-bars, in-shore holes, and boulders. Be cautious when enjoying these natural areas.

Parents must watch their children - When children are playing in the water, the safest spot for a parent or guardian to be is within arm's reach of them. It only takes seconds for a child to drown, please take this easy preventive measure.

Alcohol and water don't mix -- alcohol has been a contributing factor in 13 of the 16 drowning deaths that lifeguards have responded to at state parks within the last decade. Excessive alcohol consumption leads to poor decision-making, poor coordination, and poor reaction time. Do not drink alcohol and swim.


Safe Hiking
Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System
Connecticut has a wide variety of hiking trails including the Blue-Blazed Hiking Trail System – with more than 825 miles marked with blue rectangular blazes. This trail system offers a great way to explore the woodlands, remote ridges, and wild places of Connecticut. The trails are open year-round to all forms of foot travel (unless otherwise posted).

Connecticut’s State Parks and Forests
This year, for the first time, Connecticut State Parks is sponsoring the “Sky’s the Limit” 2015, a Hiking Challenge, designed to promote hiking in Connecticut’s State Parks and Forests throughout 2015. Hikers will enjoy the opportunity to hike to 14 of Connecticut’s high peaks and receive prizes for their efforts as part of a new program.

Participants in this friendly competition have the opportunity to receive a medallion for hiking up 10 designated locations. On January 1, 2016 names will be drawn from all who completed the 14 designated hikes and fifty winners will receive a hand-carved hiking staff.

To learn more visit: www.ct.gov/deep/skysthelimit

Greenways
"Greenways" are corridors of open space that may protect natural resources, preserve scenic landscapes and historical resources or offer opportunities for recreation or non-motorized transportation and may connect existing protected areas and provide access to the outdoors. Visit: www.ct.gov/deep/greenways

Safe Hiking Tips
Although Connecticut State Parks can be limited in acreage in comparison to some of the larger National Parks across the country, they offer adventure and awe inspiring beauty. Parks still have some of the same hazards found in expansive wilderness areas. It’s important for visitors to plan ahead to prepare for a visit to the outdoors, have proper equipment and prepare for the inevitable. And most importantly know your limitations.

As the 2015 summer outdoor recreation kicks off DEEP officials offer the following hiking safety advice when visiting a park or forest.

ï Dress appropriately and be prepared for any sudden changes in the weather. Dress in layers and avoid cotton. Hikers can choose from a variety of fabrics that wick moisture. It’s a good idea to wear a lightweight shirt that wicks moisture and carry a fleece and lightweight rain jacket.

ï Invest in good hiking socks and sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

ï Avoid hiking alone. If you do hike alone pick a well-used trail and tell someone where you’ll be and when you plan to return.

ï Stay on the trail. Taking shortcuts and bush-whacking increases your chances of getting lost and increases erosion.

ï Never climb on waterfalls or attempt to cross streams above waterfalls. Injuries and death can occur.

ï Carry a small lightweight backpack

ï Always carry rain gear. To avoid hypothermia it’s important to remain warm and dry.

ï Carry plenty of drinking water and never assume stream water is safe to drink.

ï Carry food or energy bars

ï Don’t count on cell phones to work if you are lost. If they do work, be able to give details about your current location and remain there until rescuers arrive.

ï Carry a First Aid Kit and other personal care items such as medications.

ï Carry a small flashlight


Whatever you choose for your outdoor activity, plan ahead, have proper equipment and prepare for the unexpected. 
And most importantly, have a safe and healthy visit to Connecticut’s outdoors.

This is a press release from the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection.