Programs

The Conservancy recognized that the traditional spraying of toxic pesticides was an ineffective mosquito control method as well as a threat to human health and our waters.

Working in partnership with the Suffolk County Vector Control, the Conservancy instituted a model program in New York State which hires licensed applicators of non-toxic larvicides to be applied throughout the summer in places where there are potential mosquito breeding areas, e.g. swamps, bird baths, children’s pails, or pot holes.

Endorsed the establishment of a cleaner garbage removal program (in response to a proposal to burn garbage and refuse) which resulted in the development of the current transfer station, managed by Fishers Island Waste Management (www.fishersislandwastemanagement.com), which transfers recyclables and garbage to Connecticut daily.

An annual program funded by an island family to keep the island’s beaches clean through the summer months.

The annual environmental awareness program sponsored by the Conservancy began in 2003. The films, presentations and tours are meant to invite discussion as well as to entertain Fishers Islands’ nature enthusiasts.

Educational themes have ranged from responsible gardening to global warming. Program offerings have included lectures by national and local environmental experts, roundtable discussions and children’s activities such as nature trail treasure hunts, pond and beach exploration and coastal clean-up.

To fight the onslaught of invasive non-native plants, and animals as well as to promote greener gardening practices, the Conservancy has:

Produced comprehensive booklets of the invasive, native and butterfly-friendly plants to be found on the island. Important reference and reading material for all concerned residents.

In order to prevent the contamination of the Long Island and Fishers Island Sounds and our island’s freshwater ponds, the Conservancy has worked to protect our plant, animal and aquatic life by:

• Challenging open water disposal of excessively contaminated dredged material as well as promoting alternative disposal practices that are less environmentally damaging.

Residents and visitors who allow their un-neutered cats to roam and breed contribute to the increase in feral cats on the island, potentially threatening our island’s birds and the community’s general health.

The Conservancy has developed a humane response by instituting a volunteer-managed program of trap, neuter and release on the island’s West End. In addition, birth control pills are available to the caretakers of the three main colonies of cats.