Visitors look through enlarged postcard scenes during the traveling exhibit, “The time of my life,” at the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls. The center, which is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is closed through at least April 1.
Visitors look through enlarged postcard scenes during the traveling exhibit, “The time of my life,” at the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls. The center, which is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is closed through at least April 1. Credit: Staff File Photo/Dan Little

Out of caution due to the spread of COVID-19, the Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) has announced the temporary closure of certain agency managed facilities, including the Great Falls Discovery Center in Turners Falls.

The closure was effective as of Saturday, and will continue through Wednesday, April 1, at which time DCR will reassess circumstances, according to a press release from the state agency. All associated events at these locations are canceled as well.

The same rules apply for state-owned ice skating rinks, including the Collins-Moylan Arena in Greenfield, which is operated by a third party. The 2020 ice skating season was previously scheduled to end on Sunday, March 22.

However, all state parks and comfort stations across Massachusetts will remain open, according to the release. DCR reminds residents and visitors to avoid gathering in large groups, maintain social distancing and practice healthy personal hygiene to stop the spread of the virus.

The release states the temporary closures of certain facilities are consistent with the state of emergency declared by Gov. Charlie Baker on Tuesday, March 10, and guidance that conferences, seminars and other discretionary gatherings, scheduled and hosted by Executive Branch agencies involving external parties, are to be held virtually or canceled.