Watershed Ecosystem Restoration

Engages in efforts to protect and preserve the Fishkill Creek watershed, focusing on environmental conservation and stewardship of local water resources.

Works to protect, restore, and maintain ground and surface water quality and quantity in Suffolk County, ensuring safe drinking water and healthy aquatic ecosystems.

Conducts ongoing efforts to maintain and clean up the Long Island Sound, focusing on environmental preservation and ecosystem health.

Conducts efforts focused on enhancing the water quality of Bellport Bay through direct environmental stewardship activities.

Publishes annual reports that document organizational activities, stewardship efforts, and progress toward watershed restoration goals.

Organizes an annual scientific symposium focused on freshwater quality issues in Owasco Lake, serving as a platform for citizen outreach, expert presentations, and public education on watershed health, HABs, and invasive species.

Hosts public events—including workshops, symposia, and informal gatherings—to educate residents about watershed protection, Lake Friendly Living practices, and stewardship opportunities, fostering community engagement in lake conservation.

Responds to emergencies on Owasco Lake by rescuing individuals from drowning and recovering drifting vessels, such as pontoon boats, ensuring immediate safety and preventing further hazards.

Identifies, funds, and implements roadside ditch stabilization and streamside buffer projects to reduce sediment and nutrient runoff into the Owasco Lake watershed.

Conducts shoreline monitoring for harmful algal blooms via volunteer observers who submit field reports to the DEC Harmful Algal Bloom Notification Page for official analysis and public alerting.

Leads a long-term campaign to identify, map, and treat hemlock trees infected with Hemlock Woolly Adelgid in collaboration with volunteers and university partners; includes GPS mapping of infested trees and ongoing treatment cycles to protect critical riparian forest ecosystems.

Takes legal action to compel state authorities to uphold protections for Owasco Lake as a designated drinking water source, advocating for stronger regulatory enforcement.

Engages in policy advocacy by sending board members to meet with state representatives during events like Finger Lakes Advocacy Day in Albany to influence environmental legislation affecting the watershed.

Hosts monthly board of directors meetings during the summer months that are open to the public, promoting transparency and community involvement in organizational decision-making.

Plans, plants, and maintains rain gardens—such as at Emerson Park—to filter stormwater runoff using native plants and reduce contamination of Owasco Lake. Promotes rain gardens as a best practice for shoreline property owners.

Organizes social events such as recreational boat trips and dinners to build community relationships and support engagement around lake stewardship.

Makes recordings of the Bob Brower Scientific Symposium available online to extend public access to educational content on watershed science and management.

Collects water samples from mid-lake locations and tributaries, particularly after rain events, through trained volunteers to assess nutrient levels, pollution, and overall water quality in the Owasco Lake watershed.