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Selectmen discuss aligning Bantam Lake wakeboarding rules with CT DEEP recommendations
Summary
The board reviewed CT DEEP's suggested edits to a Bantam Lake wakeboarding ordinance passed in Morris, discussed shoreline‑distance guidance (DEEP now suggests 200 feet), and raised enforcement and consistency concerns for Litchfield.
First Selectman Denise Raap reported that Morris passed a wakeboarding ordinance and that the Bantam Lake Protective Association submitted the ordinance to CT DEEP, which returned suggested revisions. Raap said she is coordinating with Morris and the Morris First Selectman on enforcement and revisiting the Bantam Lake Authority.
Michael Rybak Jr., who summarized DEEP's advisory changes, said the agency's recommendations now consider both lake depth and distance from shore and that DEEP currently recommends 200 feet from shore for certain wake activities, where a 1962 ordinance had followed a 150‑foot rule. "DEEP's recommendations consider both lake depth and distance from shore," he said.
Selectman Jeff Zullo argued that North Bay should have parity with South Bay, where a complete exemption exists, and the board discussed whether a local ordinance could ban variable‑displacement boats but noted enforcement and technical training challenges. The board agreed further review is needed to determine what Litchfield can lawfully require and how enforcement would be carried out.
Why it matters: boating regulations affect public safety, recreational access and property uses on Bantam Lake. The board flagged DEEP's guidance and the need to coordinate with Morris and the Bantam Lake Authority on enforcement and consistent local rules.
