FOC Newsletter, Chairman’s Letter, Summer 2011

The hot summer is upon us. Even so, it's still beautiful in the Preserve. New fawns, signets and ducklings are beginning to mature. Wildflowers are in bloom and the sounds of birds can be heard throughout.

The extensive powder post beetle damage found while repairing the beams with epoxy has temporarily halted progress on the mill as the State is considering replacing the beams to make the building much stronger and able to withstand the weather and vibrations from turning mill stones. Once Jan H. Pokorny Associates completes the scope of work, the restoration should progress at a steadier pace.

The negative impact of the hatchery closing is evident in the absence of the numerous fishers and groups of school children that were daily seen at the hatchery and its environs before it was shut down. The Friends’ board keeps laboring against the present NY State budgetary constraints to move along the plans for a state-of-the art, biologically secure hatchery. Presently, we are promoting Phase One of the plan that will allow at least the hatch house to be developed as an educational facility and resume operation. A grant in the amount of $250,000, secured by former Assemblywoman Ginny Fields, has made it possible to move ahead with the planning of this initial phase. I would like to thank Ginny for all her efforts.

Our polo match fundraiser, although postponed by rain, was finally held on Saturday, June 25th at Country Farms Equestrian Center in Medford. It was good to see many of you join us for an exciting and fun evening. With your kind support, the Friends raised slightly over two thousand dollars from this event.

Our new OnCell walking audio tour is ready for you to enjoy. Look for the signs along the trails and let your cell phone be your guide.

The Friends' board is working hard to accomplish the projects I have mentioned and more. Your continued support, however, is what makes our work possible. Connetquot State Park Preserve needs everyone's participation more than ever. Our Midyear Appeal is underway, please send in your donation soon and join us in enhancing this naturally beautiful and culturally rich resource for the enjoyment of all.

Visit the Preserve often, take a walk and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.

Sincerely,
Bob Labuski

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