Stewardship News

Restoration Along The Forge River Begins 

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Patience and consistency, words we often use in our conservation work, have finally paid off along the Forge River in Mastic Beach. After years of planning and preparation, the restoration of 4+ acres of waterfront land has finally begun.
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The Trust acquired the property from the Stony Brook Foundation in the fall of 2014 and began the process of applying for numerous permits from a variety of regulatory agenies as well as grants from the US Department of Agriculture for properties impacted by Hurricane Sandy. The property, which had a house and numerous structures, was badly damaged during the storm.
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The grants cover
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  1. the acquisition of a conservation easement on the property, which represents approximately 85 percent of the land’s value.

  2. restoration to enhance the land’s ability to serve as a natural buffer from storm surges for the surrounding community.

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And, with the elimination of the septic system, the restoration will contribute to the improving health of the Forge River. We are grateful the community also generously donated to the acquisition, covering the remaining 15% of the property’s acquisition costs.
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With plans and permits in hand, the Trust and the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) division oversaw the demolition of the structures earlier this month along with re-grading and seeding of the area to protect the land from erosion over the winter.
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In the Spring the Trust and the NRCS will complete the restoration plan by planting native species and managing invasive plants. All of these actions are anticipated to help with the overall resiliency of the shoreline.
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To learn more about this project, contact Senior Stewardship Manager Matt Swain at 631.283.3195.
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www.peconiclandtrust.org
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