The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society Celebrates Their 60th Anniversary
September 24, 2025
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognized The Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society as they celebrate their 60th Anniversary with a gathering of community members at The Fire Island Lighthouse. Fire Island National Seashore was established by Congress on September 11, 1964, following a long history of preservation efforts, most with grass-roots support. In 1908, part of Fire Island that had been the site of the Surf Hotel, just east of the Fire Island Lighthouse, was preserved for public use by New York State. Governor Charles Evans Hughes signed a bill authorizing Fire Island State Park, the first state park on Long Island. This park was expanded in 1924, and was later renamed Robert Moses State Park. That portion to the east of the Fire Island Lighthouse was transferred to Fire Island National Seashore on November 10, 1978. One of the first portions of Fire Island to be protected from development was the Sunken Forest. In the 1950s, a concerned group of private citizens designated a 50-acre stretch of beach, dunes and ancient holly forest just east of Point O'Woods through a fundraising campaign spearheaded in 1952 by the Wildlife Preserves, Inc., and The Nature Conservancy. Sunken Forest Sanctuary was officially dedicated as the Sunken Forest Preserve in 1960. In May 1966, the Sunken Forest Preserve, Inc. donated the property to the recently established (1964) Fire Island National Seashore, under the condition that the property shall always be maintained in its natural state and operated as a sanctuary, and that no public road or highway shall be built through it. The Wilderness Act was passed on September 3, 1964. Fire Island National Seashore's enabling legislation refers to a zone between Davis Park and Smith Point County Park for which access shall be provided by ferries and footpaths only and no development or plan for the convenience of visitors shall be undertaken therein which would be incompatible with the preservation. Pictured (L-R): Fire Island Lighthouse Preservation Society (FILPS) President Ginny Marchase, Suffolk County Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, FILPS Trustee Tony Femminella, and FILPS Executive Director Jonathon Gaare.
On The Road Again!
Scout Troop 151 of Islip Receives New Trailer
July 10, 2025
A community came together to help local Scouting Troop 151 with monetary donations and a new trailer after the troop’s trailer and approximately $5,0000 worth of camping equipment and memorabilia were stolen from a church parking lot. As a Board Member of Scouting America Suffolk County Council Sagtikos District Legislator Steven Flotteron is always looking for projects that local scouts and businesses can work on together to improve our communities. Today, the troop has its customized trailer thanks to Joe DiVilio, owner of Perfect Bodies Autobody in Bohemia and Assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 3333 in Hauppauge. DiVilio generously offered to completely dismantle, upgrade and refurbish the trailer donated by Manorville Community Ambulance to suit the troop’s needs. “Nothing is more rewarding than being able to bring the community together to help someone in need. Scouting has always been instrumental in helping their community. It is nice that they were there when they needed them,” said Legislator Flotteron. Pictured (L-R): Joe DiVilio, Teddy Bacon, London Aparicio, David Delacruz, Miguel Delacruz, Connor Dineen, Scoutmaster of Troop 151 Tyree Bacon and Legislator Steven J. Flotteron.
Eagle Scout Honors Rich History of the Guggenheim Family and Deer Lake
June 2, 2025
West Islip – A year ago a boy scout named Kaydyn Neale with Troop 399 in North Babylon reached out to Legislator Steven J. Flotteron looking for suggestions on what he could do for his Eagle Scout Project. With the rich history of the Guggenheim family and the area’s Deer Lake, the Legislator suggested that he do a community history and informational sign of Guggenheim Lake/Deer Lake at the County overlook pier. Scout Neal connected with (L-R): Town of Babylon Historian Mary Cascone; Chris Oliva, President of the Parkdale Civic Association; Scout Master Joe Fatuzzo; Legislator Steven J. Flotteron; Suffolk County DPW Architect Ken Phalen; Lorraine Pace, who grew up around the lake in the 50's; and Lynn Luttenberger from the West Islip Historical Society, who gave their guidance to ensure his project was a huge success.
Farmingdale State College Sr. Nursing Students Conduct Community Health Needs Assessment
April 28, 2025
A group of Nursing students from Farmingdale State College’s Advance 3-Year Bachelors RN program conducted a community health needs assessment with Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, fulfilling a prerequisite prior to meeting their requirements to graduate in June. Along with one of their professors, six students met with the Legislator to discuss community needs and identify areas of the community that may need additional attention or health resources for improved health statistics. Pictured (L-R): Kacie Lyzak, Onkita Iqbal, Brittany Bravo, Professor Mary Harwood, MSN, RN, CEN, Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, Kayla Regan, Bayla Braun and George Danyluk.
Legislator Flotteron Recognizes Long-time Volunteer at Seatuck Environmental Association
January 8, 2025
Friends, family and fellow volunteers at Seatuck Environmental Association gathered to recognize Peter DiMento for the Suffolk County Non-Profit Volunteer nominee for the 11th Legislative District. Legislator Steven J. Flotteron honored DiMento for his outstanding service and contributions he has made to Seatuck and his community. DiMento is a valued and exceptional member of the Association, dedicated to conserving Long Island wildlife and the environment, and a member of the board of directors, serving as the Chair of Buildings & Grounds for the past 10+ years. He has led a team of retirees caring for the grounds at the Scully Estate (home of Seatuck), which includes weekly lawn maintenance, event set ups and boardwalks and nest repairs. He is the epitome of an “Outstanding Nonprofit Volunteer,” still giving tirelessly of his time well into his 80s, and deserves this recognition for all he contributes to Seatuck. The property is meticulously maintained because of his exceptional detail and direction. “I am humbled to receive such an honor from Legislator Flotteron but recognition goes to the entire team of Building and Grounds. I do not do this alone,” said DiMento. DiMento is a resident in the Islip neighborhood near the Scully Estate for more than 60 years, where he and his wife, Noreen, raised their four sons (all LAX stars who attended the United States Air Force Academy and served in the military). One son, Michael, flew in from Tennessee to see his father receive this honor.
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, Women of West Islip and West Islip School District hosted an Informative Presentation by Sergeant Richard Tedesco of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office
February 4, 2025
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, Women of West Islip and West Islip School District hosted a very informative and current topic at Beach Street Middle School in West Islip. More than 35 parents and children attended the presentation by Sergeant Richard Tedesco of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office on Social Media Awareness, Vaping/Drug Use, and Human Trafficking. As Chair of the Public Safety Committee, Legislator Flotteron works closely with the SC Sherif’s and Police Departments. Since January was designated as National Human Trafficking Month in 2010, he felt it important to bring Sergent Tedesco’s lecture into our local schools. As you may be aware, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, especially for our younger generations. However, many individuals, particularly young people, may not be fully aware of the potential dangers and risks associated with the misuse of social media platforms. By educating our community about online safety, cyberbullying, and the impact of social media on mental health, we can help prevent harm and protect vulnerable individuals. “We as a community need to come together to educate and safeguard our children so they feel safe not vulnerable to predators,” said Legislator Flotteron. Furthermore, the rise in vaping and drug use among teenagers and young adults is a growing concern. It is crucial to educate our youth about the dangers of these substances, as well as provide support and resources for those struggling with addiction. By raising awareness about the risks and consequences of vaping and drug use, we can work towards creating a healthier and safer community for all. Lastly, human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that continues to thrive in our society. By shedding light on this issue and educating the public about the signs of trafficking, we can empower individuals to recognize and report potential cases of exploitation. By working together to combat human trafficking, we can protect the most vulnerable members of our society and ensure justice for victims. To report suspicious activity call 1-800-347-2423.
Suffolk County Legislators Honor Bay Shore High School Boys Basketball Team
November 19, 2024
Legislators Steven J. Flotteron and Samuel Gonzalez recognized the Bay Shore Marauders and Coaches Parham and Dortonne on a most impressive season, leaving the Long Island Class AAA Boys Basketball Championship on March 9th at Farmingdale College against the Baldwin Bruins with another win – making the Long Island Champions! This was a highly anticipated event, given Bay Shore’s undefeated 23-0 record going into the game. With a final score of 66-45 the Marauders dominated the competition, winning their first Long Island Championship since 1981. Pictured Front Row (L to R): Legislator Steven Flotteron, Armani Smith, Tashawn Bumpers, Khamari Broomfield, Kingsley Rogers, Carter Wilson, Brandon Hunter, Tyler Brown, Isaiah DuBarry. Back row (L-R): Coach Gary Williams, Tyler Jordan, Rasheed Murdock, Corey Faines, Jonathan Boakye, Niall Haughney, Christian Smiley, Coaches Ken Parham and Joe Arcuri and Legislator Samuel Gonzalez. Missing from photo: Max DeBonis and Coach Will Dortonne.
First Fire Island Sewage Solutions Study Presented to Suffolk County Legislature
In a Culmination of more than Six Years of Effort, Legislator Steven J. Flotteron and Citizens Campaign for the Environment Present a New Innovative Plan to Combat Nitrogen Pollution and Protect Water Quality on Fire Island
June 17, 2024
Legislator and Deputy Presiding Officer Steven J. Flotteron (LD-11) and Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE) Executive Director Adrienne Esposito were joined by Cameron Engineering to deliver the findings of the Fire Island Wastewater Solutions Planning & Engineering Study before the Suffolk County Legislature’s Environment, Parks & Agricultural Committee chaired by Legislator Anthony Piccirillo (LD-8) in Riverhead. Legislator Flotteron obtained a Suffolk County grant for CCE to hire Cameron Engineering (an IMEG Company) to conduct the first comprehensive assessment of Fire Island’s wastewater challenges and needs. Flotteron and Esposito led the initiative for federal, state, and local leaders, and stakeholder organizations to work collaboratively over the past six years to assess the wastewater management needs of Fire Island. “This plan is a crucial first step towards solving the unique challenges facing Fire Island’s wastewater management needs,” declared Flotteron. “Fire Island has only one small sewage treatment plant in the Village of Ocean Beach, treating only about 575 parcels. This leaves most residents and numerous tourists to rely on antiquated septic and cesspool systems. These aging systems contribute to water quality impairments, harmful algal blooms, and loss of fisheries in the surrounding waterways, including Great South Bay and Shinnecock Bay.” “With the options presented by this comprehensive study, we can take the necessary actions to bring solutions for this unique geological water system that protects our waterways, fisheries, and waterfront communities, as well as a thriving tourism industry that brings more than two million visitors to the area each year,” added Flotteron. CCE’s Esposito was joined by Stephen Hadjiyane, PE, BCEE, Associate Principal at Cameron Engineering (an IMEG Company), to present the study’s findings to the committee. “This groundbreaking sewage solutions report takes a holistic approach to managing sewage on Fire Island. This first of its kind report gathered extensive feedback and guidance from stakeholder organizations and Fire Island community members. The report identifies solutions tailored for each individual Fire Island community, 17 in total,” said Esposito. The four main goals outlined at the beginning of the presentation were to: improve wastewater management; identify wastewater treatment/disposal alternative; improve water quality and public health; and develop a ‘road map’ for planning and implementation of solutions. “This report is a culmination of six years of work and now provides a meaningful blueprint to guide communities in planning for needed wastewater upgrades leading to healthier waters and bays. We are very grateful to Suffolk County Legislator Steve Flotteron for his participation and sponsorship of this valuable project,” added Esposito. While the report notes that wastewater solutions for Fire Island must overcome some logistical challenges, the findings outline potential treatment alternatives for the area. The challenges begin with limited access to Fire Island from the mainland involving ferries and certain permits from FINS (Fire Island National Seashore), and include challenges within particular communities including varying dock access for community freight and passengers, unique boardwalk and roadway construction and design, narrow streets, and the need for smaller transport vehicles and specialized pump-out vehicles. Potential wastewater treatment alternatives include: Innovative Alternative Treatment Systems (I/A); an expansion of the Ocean Beach Wastewater Treatment Plant; marine based alternatives (such as a central pump station and force main under the Great South Bay to the mainland); communal/cluster treatment plant sites; use of FINS property for treatment plant sites; and other innovative technologies such as compost toilets and incineration toilets. Pictured (L-R): Mark Wagner, Sr. Project Manager Cameron Engineering, Stephen Hadjiyane, Assoc. Principal, Cameron Engineering, Suffolk County Legislator / Deputy Presiding Officer Steven J. Flotteron, Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director of Citizens Campaign for the Environment (CCE), Maureen Dolan Murphy, Executive Project Manager CCE and John D. Cameron, Executive Principal Cameron Engineering.
West Islip Boys Swimming and Diving Team Recognized for Outstanding Season
May 13, 2024
The West Islip Boys Swimming and Diving Team led by Coaches MacLoudon and Jablonski finished an undefeated season with an impressive performance and victory at the 2022 Section XI League 2 Champions and Small School Suffolk County Champions! Legislator Steven J. Flotteron recognized the team and coaches at a Legislative Meeting in Hauppauge. This is the Lions first league championship since 2007. The swimmers recorded an amazing 21 personal bests through 32 heats. Pictured Front Row (L-R): Graham Corbett, Jackson Stanton-Gladd, Patrick Kinslow, Noah Blumberg, Ryder Blumberg, Michael Johnson. Back Row (L-R) Coach Ed Jablonski, William DeWitt, Zachary Ronayne, Aidan Stueber, Brady Tyler, Matthew Corbett, Markos Prokopiou, Legislator Steven Flottern, Daniel von Thaden, Daniel Clarke, Colin Stueber, Braden Felix, Ty Corbett, Everett Lu, Atahan Bayram.
West Islip Beautification Society Recognized for 50 Years of Service
May 7, 2024
On Sunday, May 5th, West Islip Beautification Society was honored for their 50 years of volunteer service to the community, a uniquely landscaped hamlet attractive to residents, businesses and visitors since 1976. It was the vision of resident, Dorothe Karwoski, along with Marie Wilson to showcase how beautiful the hamlet of West Islip could be with a little tender care, a lot of hard work, and addition of flowers. The society’s first committee was Dorothe Karwoski, Beatrice White, Kathy Ruotolo, Arlene Widecki, Marie Wilson and June Quirino, PTA moms with a common interest, love for their community. Each member had a job; Dorothe was President, Arlene was Vice President, Kathy was Recording Secretary, Bea was Historian, Marie was Hospitality and June was the Photographer. They wrote bylaws and a commitment to each other to get new members to help beautify West Islip. They held fundraisers and purchased whiskey barrels to be used as planters on chosen sites. Later, they approached the Town for permission to beautify the triangle at Udall Road and Higbie Lane. As time went on, they adopted additional islands and sites to beautify. They attracted more volunteers to help and today have a list of very dedicated members that care for 54 barrels, lampposts, and greens on Dorothe’s Island and others around West Islip. They now offer a $500 Scholarship every year to a high school student who has volunteered with them. In addition, they have plant sales and participate at the West Islip Country Fair. Over the years, they have had Country Western Nights, Fashion Shows, Dinners and Fundraisers at Southward Ho Country Club to raise funds for flowers, shrubs, sprinklers, etc. to beautify the community. Pictured (L-R): Legislator Steven Flotteron, WI Beautification Society Recording Secretary Ellen Bolin, Treasurer Don Boyle, VP Volunteers Lynda Boyle, Historian Bea White, Member Ray Bell President Eva Oshkinis, VP Public Relations Barbara Jones and WI Historical Society President Lynn Luttenberg.
Team EVA Continues Running to Help Veterans
April 23, 2024
Eileen Shanahan, Founder of Warrior Ranch Foundation and Legislator Steven J. Fotteron recognized Eva Casale who for her third time stopped at the Ranch in Calverton during her Team EVA (Every Veteran Appreciated) 7 Marathons 7 Days in Suffolk County. Ms. Casale, a Glen Cove resident donated a kidney to a complete stranger in 2006 and has since continued to live her life around helping others. Whether it was personal sacrifice, supporting causes anyway she could, she has been responsible for raising more than $375K. Her abilities in running great distances, has given her an avenue to play an even bigger role in charitable causes. Not for self-congratulation or recognition, but to raise awareness and much needed funds, and maybe even set an example that you can live your life for yourself and others, at the same time. Her charitable contributions have included: Former Head Coach with Team in Training for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society since 2009; Former Board of Trustee Member for The Long Island Chapter of LLS raising more than $350K; Running more than 60 marathons and 60 Ultramarathons since 2006. Also, a 184 mile running tour to honor our Troops, our Veterans and our Fallen Heroes. Team EVA (Every Veteran Appreciated) has included 7 Marathons 7 Days in Suffolk County to Support Hope for the Warriors, April 2–8, 2016, which raised $40k; April 22–28th 2017, raising $26K; April 21–27th 2018, raising $30K; April 28–May 3rd, 2019 raising $30K.
Community Embraces P. S. I Love You Day in Support of Mental Health
February 9, 2024
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron helped mark the 14th Anniversary of P.S. I Love You Day on February 9th at Beach Street Middle School, Udall Middle School, Robert Moses Middle School, Islip High School and West Islip High School. Co-founders Brooke and Jamie DiPalma established P.S. I Love You Day, a non-profit organization dedicated to eradicating the stigma around mental health following the suicide of their father. Their mission is to instill hope for those affected by mental illness, fostering a supportive environment and a community where everyone feels welcomed, loved, and supported. P.S. I Love You Day is celebrated on the second Friday of February each year. This year's theme is “Love is Meant to be Given”. We encourage all to spread love to the world, others and most importantly, yourself. This year’s stats are that they reached 330,000 people in 33 states across the US and Canada with more than 650 communities supporting the cause. Brooke graduated from West Islip High School 10 years ago where she was embraced by the administration and staff after her tragedy. She and her sister turned a tragic experience into a positive effort to help others going through similar experiences. As they have done every year to help spread the word, 75 flags hung along Udall and Higbie, north of the High School and they sold more than 500 purple shirts. Brooke, who is a Financial Journalist, took the week off from work to speak on the cause at more than 20 schools this year. Her sister, Jamie is a teacher in Sachem and couldn't tour this year. It has been half of Brooke’s life since she lost her dad 14 years ago. She carries PS I love you throughout every chapter of her life. Pictured (L-R): Legislator Steven J. Flotteron, Co-founder P.S I Love You Day Broke DiPalma and Business & Distributive Education/Special Education Instructor/Coordinator of Work Based Learning Programs Islip High School Renée DeCrescenzo Clock.
New Long Island Program to Give $50,000 to Volunteer Paramedics, Firefighters to Buy Homes
September 18, 2023
Suffolk County Legis. Steve Flotteron and James Britz, executive vice president of the Long Island Housing Partnership (LIHP), announced the housing assistance for volunteers on Monday at the Bay Shore-Brightwaters Rescue Ambulance headquarters. Under the already existing Employer Assisted Housing Program administered by LIHP, a grant can provide up to $26,000 in down payment assistance for the purchase of a home plus $24,000 to improve the property after purchase. A $3,000 payment from the grant receiver, plus a $3,000 match from the receiver’s employer is required.
Legislator Flotteron Raises Awareness for Veteran Programs and Resources
March 15, 2022
Suffolk County Legislator Steven Flotteron collaborated with Catholic Health Good Samaritan Hospital and The Islip Arts Council in bringing local Veteran organizations together for an art exhibit and informational expo followed by a viewing of the acclaimed documentary Walk With Frank to increase awareness of mental health and our Veterans in the community. The event brought many community members and Veterans together, making the First Annual Veterans Awareness Project an overwhelming success. So many Veterans face such issues as PTSD, mental illness, homelessness and ongoing recovery. The Veterans Awareness Project was possible with the help of sponsors such as, Catholic Health Good Samaritan Hospital, Islip Arts Council, Kerzner Contracting Corp., Bay Shore Lions, Francis Beringer, Ken Nevor, and Legislators Cilmi and Flotteron. The art exhibit featured local Veteran artists and the documentary welcomed home Bay Shore native and Veteran Frank Romeo. Legislator Flotteron presented a check from funds raised through our Veterans Awareness Project. Pictured (L-R): Good Samaritan Hospital's CAO Ruth Hennessey and COO John McMurray; Eileen Shanahan, Warrior Ranch; Frank Romeo, Walk With Frank, Inc. and Frank Amalfitano, Pres., CEO United Veterans Beacon House (Cooking for Long Island Veterans, Project9Line not present). There are plans to continue raising awareness for Veteran programs and resources with another event in the fall.
Suffolk County Legislature Requests First Fire Island Sewage Solutions Study
July 28, 2021
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron along with Citizens Campaign for the Environment Executive Director Adrienne Esposito lead the initiative for federal, state, and local leaders and stakeholder organizations working collaboratively for three years to assess the wastewater management needs of Fire Island. Today, members of the Coalition for Fire Island Wastewater Solutions gathered at the Bay Shore Marina to announce a resolution for a grant to the Citizens Campaign for the Environment to fund the first ever Fire Island Wastewater Solutions Planning & Engineering Study. This plan will be a crucial first step towards solving the unique challenges facing Fire Island’s wastewater management needs. Fire Island has only one small sewage treatment plant in the Village of Ocean Beach, therefore most residents and numerous tourists rely on antiquated septic and cesspool systems. These aging systems contribute to water quality impairments, harmful algal blooms, and loss of fisheries in the surrounding waterways, including Great South Bay and Shinnecock Bay. “Now we can take the first step towards understanding the extent of the Fire Island nitrogen pollution problem and finding solutions that protect our waterways, fisheries, community, and our tourism industry,” said Legislator Flotteron. Pictured (L-R): Steve Brutigam, Clerk/Treasurer Village of Ocean Beach; Suzy Goldhirsh, President, Fire Island Association; Gordon Canary, representing Senator Phil Boyle; John Cameron, Managing Partner, Cameron Engineering and Associates; Adrienne Esposito, Executive Director, Citizens Campaign for the Environment; Suffolk County Legislators Steven J. Flotteron and Anthony Piccirillo; Suffolk County Presiding Officer Robert Calarco; Chris Clapp, Nature Conservancy; Maureen Dunn,Water Quality Scientist, Seatuck Environmental Association and John Lund, Davis Park Board Member.
Suffolk County Legislators Move Fire Island Waste Water Solutions Plan Forward
September 2, 2020
To meet the challenge of clean water, Suffolk County is aggressively pursuing waste water treatment solutions throughout the county. These critical solutions include expanding existing sewage treatment plants, building a new sewage treatment facility for Mastic and Shirley, and providing a robust program that allows homeowners to replace antiquated septic and cesspool systems with new innovative waste water treatment systems with the assistance of grants and low interest loans. However, there is not yet a comprehensive plan for treating waste water on Fire Island. Presiding Officer Calarco and Legislator Flotteron, working in a bi-partisan way, brought a proposal forward and Resolution 1575-2020 passed out of Legislative Committee on September 1st to address the complex needs for Fire Island are properly met. This legislation DOES NOT mean the study will get funded, it simply requires the water quality committee to reconvene this year and consider the proposal brought forward by Presiding Officer Calarco and Legislator Flotteron so it can get on the agenda for voting. And yet, this was still controversial. Legislator Flotteron asks that concerned citizens testify for the bill next Wednesday, September 9th at the full Legislature via a Zoom meeting in the morning public comment session starting at 9:30am. Sign up to receive the meeting invitation by filling out the online form at www.scnylegislature.us/publicportion, to have your voice heard.
Reduce County Spending: Special Task Force Unanimously Approved by Suffolk County Legislature
September 7, 2018
On Wednesday, September 5th, a bill brought forward by Legislator Steve Flotteron (R) – 11th Legislative District to establish the first County Task Force to reduce spending was unanimously approved by the Suffolk County Legislature. The task force will be comprised of seven experts in budget and finance, skilled to review the County’s budget and make recommendations to reduce spending of taxpayer dollars. The goal is to take an innovative approach to common sense spending by stretching our tax dollars and spend smart. “It has been too long that Suffolk County’s answer to its budget issues is to borrow money, raise taxes, fees and surcharges,” said Legislator Flotteron. “I am pleased that this bill was passed on a bi-partisan basis and I’m optimistic that the task force will help make Suffolk County more affordable for hardworking families and businesses,” said Legislator Flotteron.
Legislator Flotteron Supports Restoring Oxygen Levels Needed to Sustain Sea-life in Great South Bay
March 30, 2018
Legislator Steven J. Flotteron (far right), along with (L-R): Brookhaven Supervisor Ed Romaine, Islip Town Councilman James P. O’Connor and Conservation Project Director for Public Lands at The Nature Conservancy Kevin McDonald joined representatives of the Environmental Protection Agency and New York State Department of Environmental Conservation earlier this week to hear the results of a two-year study of the Great South Bay’s oxygen levels and offer support for efforts to reduce nitrogen pollution. New evidence of seasonally low oxygen levels helps to explain previous observations of areas in the bay that are largely devoid of bottom dwelling sea-life, including hard clams and other shellfish. Already linked to harmful algae blooms and loss of eel grass, low dissolved oxygen is yet another negative impact of nitrogen pollution, which, in Great South Bay, is largely originating from cesspools and septic systems. The event was organized by The Nature Conservancy, which funded the work with the help of Long Island Community Foundation and the Knapp-Swezey Foundation; co-sponsors included Citizens Campaign for the Environment, Seatuck Environmental Association, Save the Great South Bay, the Peconic Baykeeper, the South Shore Estuary Reserve Citizens Advisory Committee, and Suffolk County Department of Health Services.
