New Milford Mayor Pete Bass said the islands will remain closed until further notice.
NEW MILFORD, Conn. — All 12 public islands on Candlewood Lake will be closed ahead of the holiday weekend after officials from five surrounding municipalities raised concerns about environmental damage and public health risks.
For generations, thousands of people have come to the lake to enjoy its natural beauty, but local leaders said growing crowds and careless behavior have pushed the area to a breaking point.
On Tuesday, officials from towns including New Milford and Brookfield announced the closures on social media, citing what they called “unsustainable misuse and overcrowding of Candlewood Lake’s islands.” The closures will go into effect Aug. 29.
New Milford Mayor Pete Bass said that trash, diapers and human waste have been discovered on the islands in recent weeks.
“It’s unfortunate to see a beautiful place like this lake closed to the public,” Bass said. “But we had no choice. We need to protect the charm these islands have brought to the area for decades.”
Longtime resident Kevin Borden, who has lived near the lake for more than 20 years, said visitors need to be more mindful to help preserve the area.
“I love it. It’s the best thing I did to move up here with my kids, to stay away from the city,” Borden said. “Fresh air, trees everywhere, wildlife. I don’t want to come out and see a diaper on my front lawn. I don’t want that.”
Bass emphasized that the closures are necessary not only for the environment, but also for residents and boaters who enjoy the lake responsibly.
“Especially if we want to make sure that we keep this lake the true gem that it is, a tourism destination, we just want to make sure we do it in a compliant manner that protects the lake, boaters and the homeowners who live in the area,” Bass said.
Officials warned that anyone caught trespassing on the islands will face penalties and fines, with summonses issued depending on county jurisdiction. Boaters are still permitted to use the lake but are urged to do so with caution.
The islands will remain closed until further notice.
Vallery Maravi is a reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at [email protected]. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
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