Friends of Massapequa Preserve, a newly organized community group, this week announced their first community activity on Sunday, Nov. 5.

Residents from throughout the community are invited to meet at 11 a.m. at Brady Park, in Massapequa Park, for an interpretive walk, led by noted naturalist John Turner. The guided walk will focus on the abundant wildlife and diverse natural habitats found in the preserve. Rich Schary, head of the group noted that non-members are welcome, and that participants are encouraged to bring a camera. In case of steady rain, the event will be re-scheduled.

Friends of Massapequa Preserve is a group of concerned citizens who united to form a non-profit organization to enhance protection, restoration, uses and appreciation of the preserve. They plan to work with the community to increase public awareness, and promote educational activities in the preserve. The group is also starting a civilian "park-watch," to identify and report misuse and vandalism in the Massapequa Preserve. The organization noted that anyone can call a 24-hour hotline to report abuses or problems in the preserve, by calling the Nassau County Park Rangers, at 572-0300. In addition, several community service organizations are already planning significant clean-up projects.

Massapequa Preserve is 423 undeveloped acres of woodlands, ponds, lakes and freshwater wetlands that border Massapequa Creek for almost four miles, from South Farmingdale to Merrick Road. The preserve is home to hundreds of species of plants and animals.

Originally part of the N.Y. City water supply property, the Preserve was acquired by Nassau County in 1981. Massapequa Preserve is managed by the Nassau County Department of Recreation and Parks, and is the largest passive use park in the county. Among the many activities permitted in the preserve are walking, hiking, jogging, rollerblading, biking, fishing, bird watching and photography.

Schary noted that the group needs the active support of the local community to help achieve its goals. If you, or your group would like more information about them, call 541-2461, or e-mail them at: friendsmp@longislandnn.org.