LIS Update txt Summer 96

UPDATE Summer 1996

A MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As the warm weather approached this year, EPA released a new report on the economic benefits of clean water (see box entitled New on the Web!). The report shows what many of us have known all along: Clean water brings billions of dollars into our national economy and generates jobs and profits for local communities across the country. Some of the key findings of the report about clean water benefits nationally include:
· Beaches, rivers, and lakes are the number one vacation choice for Americans, who take over 1.8 billion trips to water destinations, resulting in a $380 billion recreation and tourism industry. The recreation and tourism industry is the second largest employer in the country after health care, providing six million jobs;
· On average, the value of real estate along desirable water areas is nearly 30% greater than the value of similar inland properties;
· The $45 billion dollar commercial fishing and shellfishing industry in the U.S. must have clean water in order to deliver products safe for eating. More than a quarter of a million people across the country harvest fish and shellfish from our nation’s waterways, which amounts to 15 pounds of fish and shellfish consumed per person per year;
· The clean water technology industry generates sales exceeding $64 billion each year in the U.S. and over $170 billion abroad.
Closer to home, Long Island Sound contributes over $5.5 billion each year to the regional economy from activities like commercial and recreational fishing, swimming, and boating.
Despite the importance of clean water, the new EPA report notes that 40% of our nation’s waters still are not fishable or swimmable by standards outlined in the Clean Water Act. In Connecticut, nearly 33% of the state’s rivers and 13% of lakes partially meet or do not meet waer quality standards. In New York, 7% of rivers and 53% of lakes partially meet or do not meet water quality standards. (Note for both States, rivers and lakes are not all regularly assessed.) These figures underscore the challenge we face in cleaning up our waters, yet demonstrate that if we work to protect them, significant economic benefits will ensue and the return on investment will be substantial.
This issue of Update focuses on great places to go, and interesting things to see and do around the Sound. We’ve included information on everything from places where you and your families can learn about the Sound to places where you can simply put your feet (or your fishing pole) in the water. Whatever your pleasure, we urge you to get out, enjoy the summer weather, and take advantage of the treasures to be found in and around the Sound!
--Carolyn Hughes
(Note: Report summary information provided by the Clean Water Network)

Rowland, Pataki Should Unite States’ Sound Efforts by David Miller
Long Island Sound is getting better. Citizens recognize this ongoing success story as they get involved in summer recreational activities. Pollution sources have been reduced and water quality has improved. Wetland resources are being restored and crown jewels of the Sound, like the Great Meadows Marsh, are being placed in the public trust. Marine organisms have begun to recover in areas that a decade ago were devoid of life.
In the wake of these successes, it is easy to become complacent about the future of Long Island Sound, but it is a mistake to think that the Sound does not need our continued involvement and support.
In the fall of 1994, the Environmental Protection Agency and the governors of the states of Connecticut and New York stood on the shores of this great estuary and signed the Long Island Sound Restoration Agreement, committing their governments to implement the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan. This plan, a decade in the making, provides a blueprint for Long Island Sound restoration and management. It has been the basis for the successes to date. However, the most effective plans are living documents whose foundation and principles are renewed while specific actions are updated to meet emerging challenges and reflect the most current information.
Governments and citizens must constantly review and renew their investment in the Sound, especially since there has been enormous change in the people involved. Since the Sound clean-up process began in 1985, there have been three different federal administrations; and since the restoration agreement was signed in 1994, both the states of Connecticut and New York have new governors. Many leading agency representatives who played a critical role in the Sound clean-up left for other opportunities, as have some of the most effective citizen advocates.
The good news is that the people in place today continue the fight to restore Long Island Sound, Governor John Rowland of Connecticut and Governor George Pataki of New York are launching their own initiatives for the Sound, complementing and augmenting the Soundwide plan. Governor Rowland continues to direct his agencies to implement the phase two nitrogen reduction targets and to work with communities to retrofit their sewage treatment plants. Governor Pataki has proposed an Environmental Bond Act for the voters this fall with $200 million dedicated to Long Island Sound restoration.
In order to make these and other efforts as effective as possible, it is time for Governor Rowland and Governor Pataki to stand shoulder-to-shoulder on the shores of the Sound and sign a new Long Island Sound Restoration Agreement and begin a dialogue on how they can work with the region’s congressional delegation to ensure federal funding and programs for a continued partnership in the future of Long Island Sound. It is time for agency personnel and citizens to hear from their leaders that together they view Long Island Sound as a top priority.
In one of the most successful estuary programs in the country, the effort to clean up Chesapeake Bay, governors and federal officials meet on a regular basis to update their clean-up pact with new information and commitments. It provides the fuel to continue to operate their initiatives to bring their long-term goals within reach. The Sound initiative is no different, and can be as effective if we learn from the Chesapeake lesson.
Long Island Sound has emerging challenges ahead, including the release of final data to set long-term nitrogen reduction targets for the Sound, a habitat restoration program with sites identified in both states, and a revised dredging plan to ensure that contaminated harbor sediments are treated properly. The impact of air pollutants deposited in these waters is just becoming understood, as is the need to protect the shores of tributaries flowing into Long Island Sound. These themes and updated action to address them should be part of a 1996 Long Island Sound Restoration Agreement between our governors, federal partners and citizen leaders.
Long Island Sound is facing a critical time in its history. The Sound needs the leadership of governors Rowland and Pataki. In the end, this mission is all about saving a great resource and being proud to know that our region has the wisdom, commitment and wherewithal to live in harmony for generations to come.

David Miller is executive director of National Audubon Society of New York and the New York co-chair of the LISS Citizens Advisory Committee.

Places to go, things to see and do.

1. Alley Pond Environmental Center
228-06 Northern Boulevard
Douglaston, NY 11363
(718) 229-4000
Open: Tues. - Sat. 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Alley Pond Environmental Center encourages environmental awareness, understanding, appreciation and responsibility through education. School programs, educational programs, tours and field trips are available. The natural areas at the center are open to the public, call for more details.
2. Bluff Point Coastal Reserve State Park
Depot Road
Groton, CT
A rocky bluff and beach on Long Island Sound are a half-hour walk from the parking area. A 100 acre tidal salt marsh, and upland forest offer excellent hiking and nature study opportunities. Activities available include: saltwater fishing, hiking, shellfishing, and picnicking.
3. Bruce Museum
1 Museum Drive
Greenwich, CT 06830
(203) 869-0376
Open: T - S 10-5 pm, Sunday 2-5 pm
Museum of the Arts & Sciences. Long-term exhibit “Changes In Our Land” explore the geology, ecology and history of the Long Island Sound Region. It looks at the relationship between the people and the land and includes a walk-in diorama of the coast 500 years ago, a marine touch tank and a “jeopardy” wall of questions and answers on current issues relating to Long Island Sound.
4. Captain’s Cove Seaport
One Bostwick Avenue
Black Rock Harbor
Bridgeport, CT 06605
(203) 335-1433
Open: Seven days
1996 marks the 14th anniversary of Captain’s Cove Seaport. Since 1982 this site has grown from a vacant lot and a handful of slips to one of Connecticut’s premier tourist attractions and marina complexes. Located on Historic Black Rock Harbor, the Seaport is an active maritime and amusement center, including marina facilities, 400-seat restaurant and boardwalk shops. There is no admission and dress is casual.
5. Cedar Beach Nature Center
3233 Route 112
Medford, NY 11763
(516) 451-6455
Open: Monday - Friday
Children’s activities on Wednesday from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm for ages 4 through 8 and on Thursday from 10:00 am - 1:00 pm for ages 9 and up. Tours for organizations or groups are offered by appointment.
6. Coastal Ecology Learning Program
PO Box 473
Huntington, NY 11743
(516) 385-CELP (2357)
Open: By Appointment
Ship board marine biology and coastal ecology education programs suitable for public and private schools, girl scouts, boy scouts, family programs, shore programs and classroom presentations also available.
7. Cold Spring Harbor Fish Hatchery
Route 25A
Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
(516) 692-6768
Open: 10:00 am - 5:00 pm Every Day
Self-guided tours through the fish hatchery.
8. Connecticut Audubon Coastal Center
1 Milford Point Road
Milford, CT 06460
(203) 877-0668
Open: T - S 10:00 - 4:00 pm & Sun. 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm
The Center offers a variety of education programs for Grades K - 8 as well as family programs and events. Free programs include Saturday morning bird walks and nature walks.
9. Connecticut River’s Wetlands of International Importance
Call CT DEP (860) 424-3034 for information and reservations
The global significance of the lower Connecticut River was recognized in 1994 when these marshes were designated as Wetlands of International Importance as Waterfowl Habitat under the Ramsar Convention. Observe and participate in the celebratory activities listed below:
Canoe Trip: September 21, times and locations to be announced. Bring you own canoe and gear. By reservation only.
Connecticut River Ramsar Anniversary Celebration: Gillette Castle, East Haddam , October 10. Time to be announced.
10. Connecticut River Museum
67 Main Street
Essex, CT 06426
(860) 767-8269
Fish and Wildlife of the CT River Valley celebrates the return of the bald eagle, this exhibition highlights four habitats found along the entire length of the river and explores the fish, birds and other animals that make their home along its banks. Runs through September 8, 1996.
September 13-15 Traditional Vessels Weekend. Featuring races on the Sound and river, dinner, dancing, and more!
11. Connecticut Valley Railroad State Park
Railroad Ave
Essex, CT
(203) 767-0103
May through October a vintage steam train carries passengers on an hour-long round trip to Chester. The train connects with an optional riverboat cruise at Deep River Landing. Call for timetables on the Train and Steamboat Ride.
12. The Discovery Museum
9450 Park Avenue
Bridgeport, CT 06604
(203) 372-3521
Open:10:00 - 5:00pm T - Sat & Sun 12:00 - 5:00 pm
A visit to The Discovery Museum in Bridgeport is totally interactive. An exploration of the arts and sciences, on three adventure-filled floors. You can take part in demonstrations, attend films, join in special events and workshops. You and your children can be as involved as you want to be. Make the Discovery experience your own.
13. ECSS - Sweetbriar Nature Center
Box 257
Smithtown, NY 11787
(516) 979-6344
Preserve Open dawn to dusk daily -- use Eckernkamp Dr. parking lot
The environmental center introduces Long Islanders to their natural environment through educational services and public programs. The nature center and preserve are located on the Nissequogue River and are open to the public. Contact the Nature Center for a listing of current programs for children.
14. East End Seaport Maritime Museum
Third Street, PO Box 345
Greenport, NY 11944
(516) 477-2100
Summer Hours: W - Sat 11:00 - 5:00 pm
A maritime museum featuring local history, artifacts and culture. September 21-22, A Village maritime festival - crafts, tall ships, water shows, vendors, parades, music festival and boat show.
15. Flax Pond Marine Lab
15 Shore Drive
Old Field, NY 11733
(516) 632-8709
Open: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Group tours of Flax Pond saltmarsh and/or adjacent Flax Pond Marine Laboratory, site of ecological and physiological research on marine fish, shellfish, phytoplankton and kelp. The lab is equipped with temperature controlled filtered and non-filtered seawater in an 8,000 square foot building and an 800 square foot greenhouse.
16. Frank M. Flower & Sons
34 Ludlam Avenue
Box 1436
Bayville, NY 11709
(516) 628-2077
Shellfish hatchery tours are available for groups of 10 or less by appointment only.
17. Garvies Point Museum and Preserve
50 Barry Drive
Glen Cove, NY 11542
(516) 571-8010
Hands-on nature and science activities for children to investigate the ponds, explore the beach, learn the secrets of field and woods, find out about fossils. Call the office for more details.
18. Gillette Castle State Park
Route 82
East Haddam, CT
The rugged stone castle designed by actor William Gillette sits atop a cliff high above the Connecticut River. Activities available include: fishing, camping, hiking, picnicking, and there is a charge for touring the castle.
19. Haddam Meadows State Park
Route 9A
Haddam, CT
This large meadow is situated in the Connecticut River flood plain. An access road loops around the entire meadow area to provide access to both the meadow and the Connecticut River. Activities available include: fishing, boating, and picnicking.
20. Hammonasset Beach State Park
Madison, CT
Nature Center - (203) 245-8743
Hammonasset is Connecitcut’s largest public beach, activities include swimming, fishing, scuba diving,hiking and boating. Interpretive programs are held at Meigs’ Point Nature Center, call for a listing of activities. There is a daily fee.
21. Harkness Memorial State Park
Route 213
Waterford, CT
This magnificent summer estate on Long Island Sound belonged to the late Edward S. Harkness Family. Activities available include fishing, picnicking, the mansion and formal gardens.
22. Huntington Harbor Lighthouse
PO Box 2454
Halesite, NY 11743
(516) 757-5294
Historic lighthouse located in Huntington Bay at the entrance to Huntington and Lloyd Harbors. Has been in the process of preservation and restoration. Not available at this time for visitation due to on-going construction and lack of access. Structure is an active aid to navigation and can be viewed by water and public road. Call for more information on educational programs.
23. The Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex
PO Box 21
Shirley, NY 11967
(516) 286-0485
Open: Sunrise to Sunset
Target Rock National Wildlife Refuge, Lloyd Harbor, NY: An entrance fee is required. Organized groups conducting wildlife-oriented environmental education programs may be exempt.
Oyster Bay National Wildlife Refuge, Oyster Bay, NY: The 3,117-acre Refuge was established in 1968 and consists principally of marine habitats and includes tidal bottom up to mean high tide, salt marsh, and a fresh water pond. The bay is used for wildlife observation, fishing, boating, swimming and shellfishing. Mill Pond is also open for fishing.
24. Long Island Seaport & Eco Center, Inc.
PO Box 750
Port Jefferson, NY 11777
(516) 474-4725
Long Island Seaport & Eco Center, Inc. is proud to offer this unique experience through October 1996. Classic Sailing An opportunity for you to customize an adventure for your group - whether you are a school group, a corporation looking for a team building experience, a Scouting group, or if you’re planning a special birthday party for the buccaneer in your life. Plan a trip which includes chanteymen singing songs and ballads of the sea, sails that feature a look at marine life in and around Port Jefferson Harbor and Long Island Sound, or even a trip focused on Long Island seafaring and shipbuilding history.
25. The Maritime Aquarium at Norwalk
10 N. Water Street
Norwalk, CT 06854
(203) 852-0700 x 234
Open daily10 - 5pm except Thanksgiving and Christmas
Long Island Sound Aquarium, maritime museum and IMAX Theater. IMAX films, programs, special activities, boat study (RVO) cruises, summer camp. We also offer birthday parties and overnight scout programs. Our new exhibits will feature river otters and sharks.
26. Mystic Marinelife Aquarium
55 Coogan Blvd.
Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 572-5955
Open Daily - 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Aquarium provides thought provoking encounters with marine life and interpretive programing covering marine science discoveries and conservation issues. Come visit the Penguin Pavilion, Seal Island and the Marine Theater.
27. Mystic Seaport Museum
75 Glenmanville Ave
Mystic, CT 06355
(860) 572-0711
A historic village and sailing vessels, open to the public for a small admission.
28. National Audubon Society
Greenwich Audubon Center
613 Riversville Road
Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 869-5272
Discover crayfish in a cool woodland stream! Search for salamanders under rocks and logs! Follow deer or fox tracks in the mud! These and other exciting experiences are waiting for your child to enjoy during 1996.
29. Submarine Force Museum
Historic Ship Nautilus
Crystal Lake Rd
Groton, CT 06349
(860) 449-3558
Open: 9:00 - 5:00pm & T 1 - 5:00pm
You will discover the mystery and adventure of the silent service at the US Navys Submarine Museum.
30. Oysterponds Historical Society Museum
Box 844
Orient, NY 11957
(516) 323-2480
Open: F - Sun 2:00pm - 5:00pm
Four historic buildings: 18th Century Inn; 1880’s Boarding House; Maritime Collection; 1880 Schoolhouse exhibit gallery.
31. Project Oceanology
Avery Point
Groton, CT 06340
(203) 445-9007
Open:9:00 am - 4:00pm call for reservations

Journey into the past with an afternoon visit to the New London Ledge Lighthouse aboard EnviroLab. Learn about the significant nautical history of New London Harbor, featuring the solitary outpost that is New London Ledge Lighthouse. Through September 1, 1996.
Join marine science instructors on the beautiful waters of Long Island Sound, step aboard Enviro-lab for a 2 1/2 hour voyage into the fascinating world of Marine Science. An exciting and unique opportunity for all ages. Through September 2, 1996.
32. Rocky Neck State Park
East Lyme, CT
This Connecticut beach on Long Island Sound offers fishing, scuba diving, swimming, hiking, picnicking and camping. There are also nature and interpretive programs available.
33. Rye Nature Center
873 Boston Post Road
PO Box 435
Rye, NY 10580
(914) 967-5150
The Nature Center is a 47 acre outdoor classroom, featuring forest, field, pond and brook habitats.The center offers special events and provide environmental education programs for all ages.Open: Daily 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
34. Sands Point Preserve
95 Middleneck Road
Port Washington, NY 11050
(516) 571-7900
Visit Masters of the Ocean Realm Exhibit includeing underwater dioramas; interactive hands-on exhibits and a playroom for preschoolers. This exhibit is on a six-year international tour, but its only area appearance is at Sands Point Preserve through January 5, 1997. This exhibit is produced by the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Open:T - Sun 10:00am - 5:00pm
35. Save the Sound, Inc. & Save the Sound, Inc. at Garvies Point Museum
185 Magee Avenue 50 Barry Drive
Stamford, CT 06902 Glen Cove, NY 11542
(203) 327-9786 (516) 759-2165
Save the Sound, Inc., is an environmental organization offering Long Island Sound beach programs at both locations throughout the year for families and children. Please contact the office nearest you for more details.
36. Schooner, Inc.
60 South Water Street Sun. 1:00 - 4:00pm Education Sail
New Haven, CT 06519 Sun. 5:00 - 8:00pm Sunset Cruise
(203) 865-1737
Schooner is a marine science education organization dedicated to preserving and protecting Long Island Sound. In addition to school programs in the classroom, at shore sites and on board our 91 foot schooner, we offer public sails for people of all ages. Open: M - F 6:00 - 9:00pm Education Sail
37. Science Museum of Long Island
1526 North Plandome Road and during school vacations.
PO Box 908
Plandome, NY 11030
(516) 627-9400
For over 30 years, the Science Museum, located on Leeds Pond Preserve has been making science FUN! for thousands of students through hands-on experiments and graphic demonstrations. Call for a listing of programs. Open every day, including weekends, holidays
38. Selden Neck State Park
Lyme, CT
The island park is accessible only by water. Camping available May through September.
39.Sheffield Island Lighthouse
Norwalk Seaport Association
132 Water Street
Norwalk, CT 06854
(203) 838-9444, 1-888-701-7785
Sheffield Island Lighthouse Tours offer tours of Norwalk Harbor, a 128 year old lighthouse, and provides picnic grounds, self-guided wildlife and botanical tours. Hikes around McKinney Wildlife Refuge for bird watching or examine tidal waters in Long Island Sound for marine creatures.
40. Sherwood Island State Park
Westport, CT
This beach area has activities that include swimming, fishing, picnicking, scuba diving and an interpretive program. A daily fee.
41. SoundWaters
Brewers Yacht Haven Marina
Washington Blvd.
Stamford, CT 06902
(202) 323-1978
Open: Office:M - F 9:00 - 5:00pm
Schooner: 9 - 9 pm (schedule depends on bookings)
SoundWaters is an environmental education organization offering exciting programs aboard its 80-foot, schooner and land-based programs throughout the year. All programs suitable for birthday parties, scouts, youth organizations, schools, business or community groups and can be adapted for any age.
42. State University of New York Marine Sciences Research Center
Stony Brook, NY 11794-5000
(516) 632-8656
Open: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Group tours of coastal oceanographic research center, including research facilities, laboratories, etc. Cruises aboard research vessel on Long Island Sound. All tours by special arrangement.
43. Stewart B. McKinney National Wildlife Refuge
PO Box 1030
Westbrook, CT 06498
(203) 299-2513
Office Open M - F 7:30 am - 4:30 pm
The Refuge headquarters are located on Clinton Road in Westbrook, CT. Approximately 2.5 miles of foot trails provide visitors with good wildlife observation opportunities.
Milford Point - Located at the mouth of the Housatonic River. Located at the refuge entrance, an observation deck offers visitors a great overview of the refuge.
Falkner Island - This Island is only open one day a year for an open house.
Norwalk Islands - Chimon Islands is open to the public.
44. Stony Brook Community Fund
Marine Conservation Center
Wetlands Preserve
Stony Brook, NY 11790
(516) 751-2244
Open: M - F 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
The Stony Brook Community Fund offers hands-on education and field trips featuring a range of learning workshops in history and coastal ecology. All programs can be tailored to appropriate age levels.
45. Sunken Meadow State Park
Route 25A
Kings Park, NY 11754
(516) 269-4333
Open: Daily - 6:30 am - Sunset
Three miles of beach on Long Island Sound, north shore cliffs, dunes, and a tidal marsh all directly adjacent to the Sound. There are picnic areas, play fields, 27 holes of golf, driving range, clubhouse and more. North end of Suffolk Greenbelt Trail.
46. Theodore Roosevelt Sanctuary
134 Cove Road
Oyster Bay, NY 11771
(516) 922-3200
Open: M-F 8:30am - 4:30pm
Sat.-Sun. 12:00 - 4:00 pm
The sanctuary serves as an environmental information center participating in wildlife research and rehabilitation. The sanctuary provides programs on birds, saltmarsh ecology, pond ecology and marine ecology. The natural areas at the Sanctuary are open to the public.
47. The Whaling Museum
Main Street - Route 25A
Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
(516) 367-3418
Open: Daily: 11:00am - 5:00pm
On display is New York’s only fully-equipped 19th Century whaleboat with original gear and a renowned scrimshaw collection. The museum promotes marine mammal conservation through its education programs and exhibitions. A hands-on family activity center is open year-round.
48. Wildwood State Park
PO Box 518
Wading River, NY 11792
(516) 929-4314
Open: Daily: 8:00am - 4:30pm
Wildwood State Park is primarily a camping, picnicking, bathing, fishing, and hiking facility in a suburban area heavily forested, with high bluffs (unique on Long Island) fronting on Long Island Sound. Facilities provided include campsites, bathing and fishing beaches.

URL: http://www.epa.gov/region01/eco/lis/sum96tx.html

United States Environmental Protection Agency