Senator Charles J. Fuschillo, Jr. (8th Senate District) and Assemblyman Steven Labriola (12th Assembly District) recently announced their success in winning a $15,000 New York State Legislative Grant for the Friends of the Massapequa Preserve. This funding will go toward the creation of a professionally produced educational video that would focus on the Massapequa Preserve.

The video will demonstrate some of the community's efforts in enhancing protection, restoration, appreciation, and uses of this precious resource. It will be a motivational tool that will attempt to capture the attention of students and stimulate concern and esteem for the Preserve and the environment.

The Massapequa Preserve, originally part of the New York City water supply property, was acquired by Nassau County in 1981 and, at 423 acres, is the largest passive use park in Nassau County. Hundreds of species of plant and animal wildlife thrive in this area that extends approximately four miles from South Farmingdale to Merrick Rd., and borders Massapequa Creek. Patrons of the park may engage in walking, jogging, hiking, rollerblading, biking, fishing, bird watching, photography, and a variety of other activities.

The Friends of Massapequa Preserve is a nonprofit organization founded in September of 2000 and consists of volunteer citizens concerned with the protection and restoration of the Preserve, along with raising the awareness of the community and educating the public about its uses. The group has also implemented a "park watch" to provide for oversight for the preserve and in order to ensure that no vandalism or misuse of the park grounds occurs.

"This grant will cover the cost of planning and professionally producing an educational video, focusing on the diverse national beauty of the Massapequa Preserve," said Richard Schary, president of the Friends of Massapequa Preserve. "This video will also emphasize some of the challenges we face in conserving and protecting the Preserve for future generations. It will be particularly geared toward our school children, with the goal of instilling in them a lifelong caring for, and respectful and positive attitude toward their own 'backyard wilderness.' We sincerely thank Senator Fuschillo for his efforts and look forward to working with him in the future."

"This grant will help to renew our focus on the value of undeveloped ecosystems and habitats," said Fuschillo. "I fully support this desire and initiative to make our community more aware of the Preserve's benefits. I also encourage everyone to take some time to appreciate and enjoy the recreational activities available at such a close proximity to our homes."

"It is extremely important to inform the community of the recreational opportunities and natural beauty that are present in their own neighborhood," said Labriola. "Educating students about the significance of environmental issues and the merits of their local parks provides them with a unique experience that will broaden their care and concern for the Preserve and heighten their admiration of nature."