The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation (“NYSDEC”), in conjunction with the Long Island Regional Planning Council (“LIRPC”), has begun to develop a “Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan”. This planning process is a critical endeavor as Long Island’s waterways have suffered from eutrophication related to excessive nitrogen loading.
Although the biochemical processes of our waters require the input of Nitrogen, too much can have a devastating impact on the structure and function of our saltwater ecosystems. Specifically, excessive nitrogen leads to harmful algae blooms, oxygen depletion, and fish kills.
The NYSDEC and LIRPC are encouraging the participation of stakeholders in the planning process. Information regarding the planning process, including announcements about public meetings, can be found here: http://on.ny.gov/1QQf7FW.
Additionally, please find comments submitted to the planners on behalf of SMPIL Consulting here: http://bit.ly/1nYb4OF