The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced that state boat launches are open. DEEP manages 117 boat launches in Connecticut, and they will continue to closely monitor the situation, which may evolve as the weather warms and demand increases. They will adjust public access as necessary for the safety of the public and employees.
DEEP has developed several guidelines to ensure that boaters stay safe at boat launches during the pandemic. Most of these are common-sense practices, including limiting gatherings to five people, maintaining 6-foot social distancing from others, departing the ramp as quickly as possible, boating only with cohabitants and recreating locally.
DEEP has also issued guidelines for safe boating amidst the corona crisis. Boaters are not to tie-up with other vessels or share equipment with other boaters. They should wear gloves and other protective equipment while using gas pumps and pumpout facilities.
“We know our boating community is passionate about getting on the water, and we want to ensure they can recreate safely,” says Peter Francis, DEEP Boating Division Director. DEEP is still developing plans for the state’s most popular launches and may reduce parking capacity at some locations. State officials deem the situation as “fluid” and will adjust policies accordingly. Read the full list of guidelines here.
