Adelphi Goes Green

Adelphi Greens Oyster Bay Harbor

Adelphi students joined with 200 other volunteers to clean the Oyster Bay Harbor. Members of Friends of the Bay and students from the East woods school, Massapequa High School joined Adelphi students. This event on September 17 was part of the Ocean Coast Cleanup Program. Adelphi students now join the ranks of over nine million volunteers who have clean up over 145 tons of garbage and debris.

The Oyster Bay Harbor Cleanup is recognized as one of many coastal cleanups taking place around the world as part of The Ocean Conservancy’s 26th Annual International Coastal Cleanup campaign. Over the past 26 years the Ocean Conservancy has been getting data from events like this and gathering it for many educational purposes.

The attack on garbage was from land and sea. Volunteers combed the beaches and harbor while boats were cleaning the water. Sometimes students had to get dirty to get clean. Students were putting on work gloves, rolling up their pants and sleeves and working hard. The harbor needed a good cleaning especially after all the storms that have been in the area. Students were working hard but having fun. These volunteers are stewards of the environment and make it possible for others to enjoy wonderful natural resources of Long Island. This event was made possible by the Town of Oyster Bay and community organizations

Oyster bay Town officials pointed out that without clean ups like this, debris would stay in the harbor and not break down for years. Everyone seemed pleased by the large turn out of volunteers and willingness of all to pitch in and help.
Receiver of Taxes James J Stefanich Stated

“Oyster Bay Harbor is an important natural resource, providing recreational and commercial opportunities, as well as serving as critical habitat for shellfish, fish and other types of marine life," Receiver Stefanich stated. "The beach cleanups help preserve the scenic beauty of the beaches and shoreline areas and help improve water quality by removing debris. They also reduce potential harm to coastal wildlife and marine life. Sea birds and fish can become fatally entangled in garbage such as discarded fishing line or six pack yokes. They may also mistake small pieces like bits of Styrofoam or plastic jugs, balloons or plastic bags for food and ingest them, usually with fatal results."

The Town and community organizations hope that this event serves as a reminder to reduce pollution and get involved. The Town hosts several events every year to aid the environment. The Adelphi students involved showed to the Town, community, and organizations the true spirit of Adelphi, one of public service. Adelphi students improve Long Island and lives of others by volunteering in many events every year.