b'Connecticut Department ofEnergy and Environmental Protection79 Elm StreetHartford, CT 06106-5127 www.ct.gov/deep Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity EmployerKatie S. Dykes, Commissioner Dear Connecticut Boaters,The famous American naturalist John Burroughs once said, I go to nature to be soothed and healed and to have my senses put in order. We continue to see the wisdom in this sentiment more than a century later as Connecticuts residents and visitors continue to seek recreational outlets in our outdoor spaces in record numbers. For many, boating is the perfect way to live Burroughs words and escape the daily grind, connect with nature, and spend time with family and friends. As stewards of Connecticuts public lands and waters, it is DEEPs responsibility to ensure that these outdoor recreational spaces are accessible to all of our residents and that everyone has the information they need to safely enjoy Connecticuts waterways.The 2023 Boaters Guide contains everything needed to find boating classes, select a local launch, identify required safety gear, and operate a vessel safely on our waters. We designed the guide to provide valuable information whether you are a novice or a veteran mariner.While this guide is quite thorough, nothing beats timely and relevant boating content delivered in real time! I encourage you to follow our social media platforms where we provide important safety reminders and announce critical notices to boaters like real-time boat launch closures, water quality alerts, and urgent hazards to navigation. Our Boating Division can be found on Facebook (@Boating In Connecticut), Instagram (@ctdeep_boating), and Twitter (@CTBoatingInfo). Please join us! Lastly, DEEPs Boating Division is always looking for diverse and energetic employees to fill a number of key seasonal positions across the state. We seek candidates who are passionate about promoting boating safety with the public at our state boat launches. We provide training. If you are interested, please reach out to deep.boating@ct.gov or keep an eye on www.jobapscloud.com/CT/ for seasonal job postings throughout 2023. I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable boating season! Sincerely, Katie S. Dykes Commissioner 2023 Connecticut BOATERS GUIDE5'