The Suffolk County Legislature unanimously passed legislation on Sept. 3 that aims to conserve “working waterfronts” in the same way that the county has preserved over 11,000 acres of farmland through its Farmland Development Rights program, which began in 1974.
Under the legislation, lands will remain privately owned but cannot be developed beyond their current use, allowing for continued waterfront access for those who rely on the water for their livelihood. It is the first program of its kind in New York State.
According to a release from Legislator Ann Welker, the voluntary program, initiated by County Executive Ed Romaine, allows waterfront property owners to sell future development rights to the county through a conservation easement. The legislation establishes a 17-member committee to review conservation easement applications and provide oversight.
“By protecting our working waterfronts, we are protecting our economy, our food supply, and the character of Suffolk County’s coastal communities,” Ms. Welker stated in the release. “This is about ensuring that future generations can continue the proud traditions of fishing, boating, and maritime commerce that have defined our region for centuries. . . . This is an enormous win, not only for the North and South Forks, but for all of Suffolk County.”
Ms. Welker’s district, which includes East Hampton Town, has the largest number of commercial waterfront properties in the county, comprising over 500 acres. “Preserving these sites protects not only our maritime economy and heritage but the very way of life in our coastal communities,” she said.
The county’s maritime economy accounts for more than 6 percent of its total economy, employing over 38,000 people. Nearly 1,000 commercial waterfront parcels account for 2,400-plus acres across Suffolk.
Bonnie Brady, executive director of the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association, said the legislation was long overdue. “With infrastructure evaporating, livelihoods and the broader food supply chain are at risk,” she said. “This legislation protects packhouses, ice houses, wharves, and docks for future generations.”
