The Town of Oyster Bay has applied for a grant for the restoration of the Marjorie Post Community Park pond announced Town Supervisor John Venditto last week.

Venditto said the pond and its shoreline is being polluted by the fecal waste produced by the large population of geese and ducks that feed and reside alongside the pond, a segment of the Unqua River. Also due to the heavy foot-traffic, the shoreline is sparsely vegetated which allows the upland area's stormwater runoff to flow into and further pollute the pond.

"The Town is eligible for funds under the Environmental Protection Fund for shoreline rehabilitation," said Venditto. "Accordingly, I have asked our Department of Public Works to file an application for matching funds with the New York State Department of State."

He added that the estimated cost of the project is $20,600 and the Town is requesting the State pick up 50 percent of the tab.

The shoreline restoration project would include planting a row of shrubbery to act as a physical barrier to deter geese from traveling between the Unqua River and the pond as well as to discourage the feeding of waterfowl. Limiting the availability of food for the geese will cut down their numbers. Shrubbery would also be used to filter and slow down the stormwater runoff that flows into the pond from upland. Lastly, the plan calls for two small viewing decks that would extend beyond the shrubbery to allow panoramic viewing of the pond.

"The pond has always been a focal point for visitors at Marjorie R. Post Community Park," stated Venditto. "This shoreline rehabilitation project will not only address water quality concerns, but will give the entire pond area a more attractive appearance. We are hopeful the State will look favorably on our request for a grant for this worthwhile endeavor."

- J.W.A.