Friends of Connetquot River State Park Preserve
The Friends of Connetquot is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, conservation and history of the 3,473-acre Connetquot River State Park Preserve. We work to help management protect a pristine environment and historic buildings and artifacts. We also support educational programs, fishing facilities and hiking and equestrian trails.
Friends of Connetquot Awarded $46,651 in a Matching Grant
December 14, 2021 - The Friends of Connetquot River State Park Preserve was just awarded $46,651 in a matching grant for the restoration of the South Side Sportsmens Club Fish Preparation Room located in the Club House that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The restoration will include repair of the skylight and replacement of tin ceiling details.
This is wonderful news, but now comes the task of raising the matching funds to make this plan a reality! As you consider what to give in response to our Annual Appeal, please keep this project in mind!
2022 MLK Food Drive
Help Connetquot River State Park Preserve help our neighbors by donating to their 2022 MLK Food Drive. The Food Drive runs until February 12th. Your donations can be dropped off at the entrance Booth. All donations will be given to
Island Harvest to help our Friends and neighbors.
Here’s some thought about donations:
- Boxed milk is a treasure, as kids need it for cereal which a lot are donated.
- You cannot eat all the awesome canned veggies and soup unless you put a can opener in too or buy pop tops.
- Feminine hygiene products and Oil are luxuries.
- Spices or salt and pepper would be a real Christmas gift.
- Tea bags, coffee, Sugar and flour are treats.
- Tuna and crackers make a good lunch.
- Cake mix and frosting makes it possible to make a child’s birthday cake.
- Dishwashing detergent is very expensive and is always appreciated.
- Everyone loves Stove Top Stuffing.
Thank you in Advance!
In Memorium: Dr. Richard Steinberger
We mourn the loss of Dr. Richard Steinberger, who passed away December 10, 2021. Doc was a great friend to many, sharing his knowledge and time freely with anyone who asked. Few can match his devotion to Connetquot River State park Preserve. His research and support to Friends of Connetquot played a pivotal role in saving the CRSP trout hatchery from destruction. Those who knew him expected a well-thought, educated response to any query. They also knew not to expect a short answer to their question.
Doc was a devoted son, caring for his mother until her passing. He was an excellent fly tyer, who could cast any fly with ease. His knot-tying was superb, and he enjoyed teaching these skills to anyone who asked.
His legacy lives on in his colleagues from the Idle Hour Fly Fishers, and the Friends of Connetquot. He was awarded the Gil Bergin Preservationist Award by the Friends of Connetquot. Most of all, those of us who knew him were pleased and proud to call him OUR Friend.
Transom Restoration
A stained-glass window that dates back to the late 19th century has been restored and reinstalled at the Sportsman's Club at Connetquot River State Park Preserve.
See the full story behind the history of the transom and its restoration at Newsday.
Gil Bergen
The Friends of Connequot mourn the passing of long-time CRSPP Manager Gil Bergen
Click here to read about a wonderful man and his unique life.
President's Letter, FOC Newsletter, Winter 2021
The President's Letter for Winter 2021 has been released:
Here are the highlights:
- The first president's letter from new President Janetmarie Soley.
- The new Volunteer Corps has been launched and has already had an evident impact on the Preserve.
- In-Person Lectures have resumed!
- Happy Holidays from the Friends!
Please visit the President's Letter page to read the full letter.
STQRY Audio Walking Tour!
Did you know you can take a walking audio tour of Connetquot River State Park Preserve using your own cell phone? Thanks to STQRY and the Friends of Connetquot, you can learn about the history behind the landmarks of the park such as Mile Marker "50", the various bridges along the trails, the Ice House, Hatchery and more! Plus, you can find out what to look for as you walk the trails of the park. It's a whole new way to see Connetquot even if you've been here hundreds of times or you’re hundreds of miles away!
Simply download the map here or get one at the entrance booth as you come in to the park. Start your tour at the Welcome Kiosk in the parking lot. Scan the QR code with your smartphone for pictures and audio or call 631-703-3313 and enter number 1 to begin the tour. Look for more signs throughout the Preserve. Snap the QR or enter the number on the marker and you'll be treated to a short summary of what you're looking at and what to look for.