Mangano Announces Plans To Clean Massapequa Lake

Dozens of Workers and Volunteers to Attend on August 3rd

In an effort to clean Massapequa Lake and rid it of an invasive aquatic plant species, Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano will join with County Legislator Michael Venditto, employees from both Nassau County and the Town of Oyster Bay and dozens of local volunteers on Saturday, August 3rd from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

“The residents of Massapequa are great partners with my administration when it comes to preserving their hometown,” said County Executive Mangano. “Cleaning Massapequa Lake and ridding it of this invasive plant is an important step in keeping Massapequa beautiful. I thank Supervisor Venditto and County Legislator Venditto for their role in helping make this day a reality.”

Legislator Michael Venditto added, “Massapequa has some of the finest natural resources in Nassau County, such as our wonderful preserve, lakes, and other waterways. I am very honored to be a part of this clean-up effort which is a great example of the good things that can happen when dedicated residents work with a responsive government.”

Water chestnut is a hearty aquatic plant that in recent years has begun to inundate the lake. Although the lake is healthy and vibrant with fish, water fowl and other plant species the water chestnut has become a threat to the long-term health of the lake.

Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor John Venditto offered to send an aquatic weed harvester to the lake for one week, beginning August 3rd. The harvester is capable of entering the lake and assisting in pulling the water chestnut. In addition, volunteers will utilize boats to pull the plant from the lake. The water chestnut that is pulled from the lake will be carted away.

Nassau County recently obtained a five-year permit from the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) for the weed pull. Over the next five years, the County will continue to fight the invasive plant. A study will also be performed to better understand the lake’s overall health, depths and hydrology. The study will provide recommendations on how to permanently rid the lake of this and other invasive species.

This weed pull event is open to all. To volunteer for the event, residents must register with the Nassau County Department of Public Works by emailing mmartino@nassaucountyny.gov.