The one-year closure follows a request by New Haven Police Chief Anthony Campbell for the DEEP to review public safety concerns related to waterfowl hunting in the area, including police responses to reports of gunshots in the vicinity that divert public safety resources and can cause confusion. DEEP has requested hunting-related incidents received by the New Haven Police Department over the past three years. After DEEP receives those reports the agency will conduct a thorough review of the matter and make a recommendation to the Office of the Commissioner for further action.

“Following a request by New Haven Police Chief Campbell, I have issued a temporary closure of a limited area along the Quinnipiac River to hunting,” said DEEP Commissioner Klee. “I have made this decision in the interest of public safety, while also recognizing the importance of hunting in our state. Once DEEP staff complete their review, they will make a recommendation to the Office of the Commissioner for further action regarding this area of the river.” 

DEEP will be posting this area as closed to hunting. Those found hunting in the area will be subject to arrest and could be charged with a Class D Misdemeanor for Illegal Hunting.