Long Island Watershed Action Agenda: Public Comments Accepted Through July 25

On June 25, 2025, the draft Long Island Watershed Action Agenda was released for public comments by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). This agenda outlines proposed plans related to water quality improvements in Nassau and Suffolk counties. These initiatives include the conservation and protection of Long Island’s groundwater, surface water, and coastal water resources. The Long Island Watershed Action Agenda overall covers four main objectives:

• Clean water
• Healthy Habitats
• Sustainable Groundwater Resources
• Inspired and Engaged Public

The agenda builds upon the Long Island Nitrogen Action Plan (LINAP), which was developed starting in 2015, and seeks to advance projects that include goals beyond the reduction of nitrogen. LINAP focused on protecting Long Island’s sole source aquifer and the drinking water it provides. Under the Long Island Watershed Action Agenda, plans will be outlined for the protection of all water resources on Long Island, expanding the focus to include recreational and commercial water uses. The agenda is a continuation of New York State’s commitment to improve water quality from both public health and ecological/environmental perspectives.

The draft Action Agenda can be reviewed here: https://dec.ny.gov/nature/waterbodies/oceans-estuaries/long-island-watershed-program/linap. If you wish to submit comments to NYSDEC, they can be forwarded via email to:  liwaterquality@dec.ny.gov.

Use the Subject: “Long Island Watershed Action Agenda Public Comment”

The deadline for submitting comments is July 25, 2025.

Walden’s engineers are well-versed in water quality and can help answer questions you might have. Contact Walden today at 516-980-5508 to discuss the Long Island Watershed Action Agenda or other issues related to water quality.