North Stonington — The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection has implemented a temporary 90-day ban on alcohol at the Billings Lake Boat Launch area.

The ban comes after DEEP and state police have had to respond to several disorderly conduct incidents and assaults over the past year at the boat ramp and adjacent properties, many of which involved people who were drinking, officers say. DEEP also said the action was taken due to a continued pattern of trespassing and illegal access to off-trail areas on private property and state forest land, as well as associated misuse and littering that negatively impact people using the areas responsibly. 

The ban applies to an area that includes the boat launch out to private property south and west of the launch and extends north and east to a portion of Pachaug State Forest. Signs are posted about the ban.

DEEP said the temporary alcohol ban gives law enforcement officers a tool to "dissuade inappropriate use" of state recreation areas.

“We want our parks, forests, boat launches, and waters to be peaceful, family-oriented places where adults and children can feel welcome and safe,” Mason Trumble, deputy commissioner for environmental conservation, said in announcing the ban. “This measure, combined with continued supervision and education by DEEP staff and officers, will help restore a welcoming and safe atmosphere for all.”