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July 2, 2020
For Immediate Release
(HARTFORD, CT) – The Metropolitan District (MDC) announced today that it will open the boat launch
at Lake McDonough on Monday, July 6 for the season. Lake McDonough, located off Route 219 in
Barkhamsted, has been closed for boating and swimming as part of the operational response to the
COVID-19 pandemic.
The boat launch will operate with the following protocols:
• MDC requires social distancing and face coverings for using boat launch
• Boat launch open daily, 10AM-8PM
• Cost is $20 per boat launch (launch fee includes parking)
• No new launches after 5:00PM and all boats shall be docked by 7:30PM
• Boaters may launch private boats only – No MDC boat rentals
• No fishing tournaments and associated activities (weigh-ins etc.)
• No drinking fountain access
• Parking lot access is only open for boat launch patrons – no other non-boating access
The Lake McDonough beach recreation area will remain closed for swimming for the remainder of
the season. MDC is following protocol set by the Governor and the CT Department of Energy and
Environmental Protection (DEEP) in May to keep inland beaches closed for swimming.
While the MDC regrets any inconvenience this will cause, this action is necessary to ensure the safety and
security of all of our staff and recreation area users. For more information on boating rules and
regulations at Lake McDonough, visit: https://themdc.org/recreation-areas/lake-mcdonough.