URGENT UPDATE: Candlewood Lake is shutting down all of its public islands just in time for the bustling Labor Day weekend, officials confirmed today. Beginning on Friday, September 1, 2023, all 12 public islands will be closed due to escalating public health and safety concerns.

The Candlewood Lake Authority announced the closures in a Facebook post, citing severe overcrowding and misuse that have left the islands in distress. “Due to significant public health and safety concerns caused by the unsustainable misuse and overcrowding of Candlewood Lake’s islands, the Candlewood Lake Authority is announcing the closure of all public islands,” the statement read.

This decisive action is backed by several towns including Brookfield, Danbury, New Fairfield, New Milford, and Sherman, along with the support of FirstLight, the owner of the lake.

New Milford Mayor Pete Bass emphasized the urgency of the situation in a social media post, stating, “Some of the islands have experienced extreme overcrowding which has resulted in large amounts of garbage, human waste, glass bottles, etc. This can significantly impact the health of the islands and the lake.” The closure aims to prevent the issues affecting some islands from spreading to others.

The Candlewood Lake Authority Marine Patrol, along with the Connecticut Department of Energy & Environmental Protection’s Environmental Conservation Police and local police departments, will enforce these closures. Officials warned that anyone who disobeys the closures will face removal and possible fines for trespassing.

Candlewood Lake is not only the largest lake in Connecticut but also the largest in the New York metropolitan area, spanning 8.4 square miles and covering 5,420 acres.

As Labor Day approaches, residents and visitors are urged to stay informed and respect the closures for the safety and well-being of the community. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as they become available.

This unexpected closure is sure to impact weekend plans for many, making it crucial for the public to adjust accordingly. Stay tuned for more developments as authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.