As anyone who has passed it lately knows all too well, Herricks Pond Park is not what it used to be. In fact, it is a far cry from the pond in the middle of farmland it once was. It is for many an eyesore, seen daily by numerous Nassau County residents, visitors to the area, as well as by the many members of the Herricks community who live nearby.

Several weeks ago some energetic Center Street teachers noticed a request for proposals from Nassau County under the 2006 Environmental Bond Act Program. They, along with other Herricks staff members and a noted landscape architect, have now submitted a proposal for the beautification of the pond which, at the same time, would also transform it into a valuable educational site.

The proposal would create an outdoor classroom which would both support the science objectives established by the New York State Board of Regents and educate Long Island students and their families about Long Island's native habitats. There would be walkways and viewing areas, as well as a turn-around for buses to drop off groups of students. The site would also be designed to accommodate students and adults with physical disabilities.

The proposal has been submitted to the Nassau County Parks Department for funding. If you would like more information, please feel free to call my office. We can provide you with a copy of the proposal and the plan.