Previously Published in The Messenger
By Madison Warren
This week has begun to feel like the start of spring for New Yorkers, something we have all patiently waited for since the end of November. For Long Islanders, springtime is the light at the end of the tunnel. Days filled with sunshine, outdoor activities, afternoons at the beach, and the long-awaited return of boating on the South Shore and North Shore waters are finally within reach.
This week, Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine (R-Center Moriches) was joined by Suffolk County Legislators Trish Bergin (R-East Islip) and Steve Flotteron (R-Brightwaters), Deputy Commissioner Thomas Galati, and officers from the Marine Bureau at Timber Point Country Club in Great River to discuss safety concerns for boaters as winter comes to an end and residents begin preparing to get back out on the water.
Romaine warned boaters about dangerous debris in local waterways caused by recent winter storms. While floating debris is common each year after the winter season, officials say there has been a noticeable increase this spring due to the harsh winter and extended periods of freezing conditions.
Much of the debris being recovered comes from docks along the shoreline that were pushed up or damaged when the water froze. With the waterways frozen for much of the season, structures were shifted and broken apart as the ice moved. The Marine Bureau has discovered debris scattered throughout the waterways, both near the shoreline and farther out in open water.
Romaine also emphasized how dangerous this debris can be for boaters, noting that it has the potential to cause significant damage to vessels and could easily lead to injuries. Much of the debris floats just below the surface near the shoreline, making it extremely difficult to see, especially for boaters traveling at higher speeds.
“We are very grateful that we do have the Marine bureau that is out there, seeing firsthand the debris because they patrol around the clock,” Romaine stated.
Legislator Flotteron, Chair of the Public Safety Committee and an avid boater himself, echoed Romaine’s message, noting that it has been decades since debris conditions in the waterways have been this severe. He urged boaters to use extra caution and be mindful of potential hazards before heading out on the water.
The Marine Bureau continues working daily to clear as much debris as possible, hoping conditions will allow for safe boating once the season fully begins. Flotteron also encouraged residents to report any hazards they see in the waterways by reaching out to county or town officials so they can be addressed as quickly as possible.
Legislator Bergin also offered advice for boaters heading out for the first time this season. She suggested bringing someone along as a spotter and taking it slow while navigating the waterways, especially in areas where debris may be present.
Bergin added that if a boater does strike debris, they should bring the vessel to a safe location if possible and carefully check the boat for any damage before continuing.
Deputy Commissioner Thomas Galati and Deputy Ostrow reminded residents that anyone who notices debris in the waterways can report it by calling 631-852-COPS. During the briefing, officials also displayed several pieces of debris that have been recovered from the water over the past few weeks, including broken wood, sections of docks, and displaced navigation buoys.
Officials noted that, so far this season, no boaters have reported accidents involving debris, largely due to the limited boat traffic during the colder months. However, they hope to keep it that way as activity on the water increases. Some of the debris recovered has weighed anywhere between 500 and 1,500 pounds, which officials say could cause catastrophic damage if struck by a boat.
As the weather begins to warm and the boating season approaches, county officials are reminding residents to stay alert while out on the water. With debris still being cleared from recent winter storms, boaters are encouraged to take extra precautions, travel at slower speeds, and report any hazards they may encounter. Officials say a little extra awareness early in the season can help ensure a safe and enjoyable boating season for everyone.