FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2022
MEDIA CONTACTS: Gordon Tepper, Rebecca Cheng and Michael Anderson | (516) 869-7794
Town Passes Resolution to Reintroduce Oysters to Manhasset Bay
North Hempstead, NY – The Town of North Hempstead Town Board recently passed a resolution authorizing an agreement with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County for a pilot oyster restoration project in Manhasset Bay. This project is being spearheaded by North Hempstead Council Member Mariann Dalimonte, who offered the resolution at the Town Board meeting on Thursday, April 28.
“A significant priority for me as an elected official has been the protection and preservation of our local environment,” said Council Member Dalimonte. “Manhasset Bay is a local treasure, serving as a communal destination for residents and boaters, while also acting as a vital ecosystem for marine flora and fauna. Having and maintaining a thriving oyster population in one of North Hempstead’s most essential waterways will help to reestablish marine habitats, improve the quality of the water, provide economic stimulus by attracting visitors to nearby downtowns, and ultimately enhance a destination that is beloved by residents across the greater North Hempstead community.”
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County will work with the Town of North Hempstead to scout Manhasset Bay, with oyster planting beginning in the summer or early fall of 2022 and subsequent monitoring occurring in winter 2022 and early spring 2023.