BRIDGEPORT, CT - With winter in full swing, officials at Aquarion Water Company are warning people not to trespass at local reservoirs when taking part in winter recreational activities.
“We want to remind people that it is illegal to be on Aquarion reservoir property and also extremely dangerous,” said Stephen Stamos, Aquarion’s Manager of Natural Resources. “We’ve seen an increase in unlawful winter recreational activities on our reservoir properties, and our biggest concern right now is people walking on ice that is not thick enough to support the weight of a human.”
At this time of year, ice may appear thick enough to walk on, but officials at Aquarion say this thickness is unreliable, and can be deceptive due to shifting water levels and thermal undercurrents. In addition to the physical danger, trespassers also face the possibility of fines or arrest if caught on Aquarion reservoir property.
Aquarion encourages residents to avoid the danger, fines and possible arrest, and to contact their local Parks and Recreation Department for alternative winter activities.
Aquarion does welcome the public on Centennial Watershed State Forest’s Saugatuck and Aspetuck Valley trails, which are open for hiking, cross country skiing and snowshoeing year-round for those who hold a valid permit. To obtain a permit or learn more about Aquarion’s public access policies, call Aquarion’s Watershed & Environmental Management Office at (203) 452-3511 or visit our website at www.aquarionwater.com.
