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Clear, Clean Water and More
Lake McDonough Recreation AreaWest Branch Reservoir Recreation AreaTalcott Mountain Reservoir Area

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where can you swim, fish, ski and hike?
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For Up to Date
Water Flow Rates
in the
Farmington River
Visit the
FRWA Web Site
 Farmington River Watershed Association
 bird watching may include water fowl WEST BRANCH RESERVOIR
The MDC owns over 6,500 acres of property along the West Branch of the Farmington River and in the vicinity of the West Branch Reservoir and Colebrook River Lake. Much of the property is accessible by foot for hiking, jogging, bird watching and picnics.

Snowmobiling is allowed on the MDC's West Branch property (in Connecticut) provided the vehicle is properly registered in the State and licensed with the MDC. Permits are available at MDC Police headquarters in Barkhamsted. Call (860) 379-3671. 
there are signs of spring all around
Some hunting is allowed on West Branch properties according to applicable Connecticut and Massachusetts laws and regulations. State wildlife officials should be consulted regarding hunting season schedules and other applicable regulations.

A wheelchair-accessible fishing pier is located on the east side of the Farmington River in the Pleasant Valley section of Barkhamsted, ½ mile south of the iron bridge on Route 318/181. This section of the West Branch is a popular trout fishing spot and the site of efforts by Connecticut fisheries officials to bring back the Atlantic salmon.

The West Branch (Goodwin) Reservoir is located two miles north of Riverton. Colebrook River Lake is located on Route 8 approximately five miles north of Winsted. Detailed driving directions a printable map are available.

For additional information call (860) 278-7850 in the Hartford area; (860) 379-0938 or (860) 379-0916 in the Barkhamsted area.