Now, Cleaner Water

After a two-year campaign spearheaded by Peconic Baykeeper and supported by the Towns of Hempstead, Oyster Bay, Babylon, Islip, Brookhaven, Southampton and the Fire Island National Seashore, the entire South Shore Estuary Reserve has been designated a federal No-Discharge Zone. This designation requires vessels to discharge all sewage, treated or not, at pump-out facilities, thereby preserving water quality and protecting surrounding marine life. To obtain approval, Peconic Baykeeper demonstrated the need for greater protection of the natural resources within the estuary. The South Shore Estuary Reserve includes more than 110,000 acres of open bays and tributaries from the East Rockaway Inlet to Shinnecock Bay. Said Baykeeper Kevin McAllister, "As Long Islanders, we're deeply connected to our waters, and it is our responsibility to ensure their long-term vitality. "

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