The Connecticut Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced it is postponing the opening of the newly redesigned Gardner Lake State Boat Launch in Salem until April 26, 2008. The postponement is due to unanticipated problems caused by soil and ground water conditions and heavy rains during construction.

DEP Commissioner Gina McCarthy said, "The DEP regrets any inconvenience because of this issue but public safety is our primary concern and we want to make sure the job is done right. We are confident that even with the delay the public will be very pleased with this new state-of-the-art facility."

Renovations to the Gardner Lake State Boat Launch include:

While renovations are being completed, the public can utilize the following boat launches in the area: Bashan Lake, Upper Moodus Reservoir, and the Lower Moodus Reservoir, all in East Haddam. For additional state owned boat launches see the CT Boater’s Guide or visit the Boating section of the DEP website at: www.ct.gov/dep