BRIDGEPORT, CONN. – January 30, 2019 – 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.
“Over the last few weeks, we have seen an increase in unlawful winter recreational activities on our reservoir properties, including walking on reservoir ice,” said Stephen Stamos, Aquarion’s Manager of Natural Resources. “We want to remind people that not only is it illegal to be on Aquarion reservoir property, but it is also extremely dangerous.”
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.
Aquarion Water Company is the public water supply and wastewater treatment company for more than 780,000 people in 73 cities and towns in Connecticut, Massachusetts and New Hampshire. It is the largest investor-owned water utility in New England and among the seven largest in the U.S. Based in Bridgeport, CT, Aquarion has been in the public water supply business since 1857. Across its operations, Aquarion strives to act as a responsible steward of the environment and to assist the communities it serves in promoting sustainable practices. Aquarion Water Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Eversource.