CELEBRATING 37 YEARS OF LAND CONSERVATION
Vol. 31, No. 1 Fall 2020
Climate & Conservation
Together, we can make a difference
Georgica Pond | Wainscott A Message from our President
This past year will have never been busier, especially as more people are be remembered for seeking refuge here on the East End, and the needs generations to come. of those already here have come into sharper focus, Given the pandemic, especially around food security. social strife, and political So, while we are physically separated by distance and polarization, 2020 has masks, we are bound together more than ever to protect been filled with division, our surroundings, and to connect with each other through uncertainty, sorrow, and the land you help to conserve. Because of you, the Trust stress. But there is reason has many new opportunities to: for hope beyond the promise of vaccines. If we can respect our differences, rebuild trust, and find common ground, • Protect more of the land and water upon which we can do anything. As has been said many times by our lives and livelihoods depend; many people, “Together we stand, divided we fall.” • Support new and established farmers who feed us, including people in need; If you are like me, our current reality has awakened in • Ensure that conserved land is accessible to all you a deeper appreciation of our local community – its members of our community; people, facing shared challenges, some more desperate • Lift our spirits through virtual gatherings that than others; frontline workers who care for and protect provide a space for us to meet and greet. us; farms that provide us with fresh, local produce; places that define our community and nourish our This newsletter reflects the breadth of the work that you souls – all part of the social and natural environment in make possible. Thank you so much for your partnership which we live. Here, we have more control over what’s and continued support. Together we will continue to do happening around us. Here, we can protect the land amazing things even during these trying times! Please and water upon which we depend. Here, we can find call or email me if you have any questions. I‘d love to common ground. hear from you. Stay safe and be well. Through the many challenges we have faced this year, you and the community have asked the Trust to do more to protect, steward, and share the resources that sustain us, and bind us together. Consequently, we [email protected] Connecting (virtually) through Programming hank you for staying connected with us this year! If you missed any TThrough programs on Zoom and video, and essays of our programs, and stories about nature and agriculture, we hope you can find them we brought a little of the wonders of Long Island’s on our website working farms and natural lands into your homes. And blog. We are in the inspiration to your own landscapes. planning stages for 2021 – with We hope next year to be able to meet more in person, plans to host Zoom but also plan to continue to provide interactive programs monthly, programs over Zoom and video. starting with a This year, we had how-to videos on everything from discussion on the birdhouse building to fermenting veggies and eco- “Changing Tides in mindfulness. We had essays on our local feathered Marine Farming” friends, and Zoom conversations with local growers on January 21. and artists. photo courtesy of Richard Wines We send a very special thank you to all the We welcome your ideas for future programs. contributors: the moderators, panelists, writers, Have a suggestion for 2021? Please reach out to Kathy Kennedy, farmers, chefs and explorers. You made these programs Senior Manager of Outreach, at [email protected]. engaging, informative, and dynamic. We look forward to seeing you in person in the future.
2 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Connections
OnConnecting Georgica (virtually)Pond... through Programming he stress on our local ponds due to surface runoff Tand other pollutants continues, but we have some good news to report related to Georgica Pond in Wainscott. Thanks to a generous donation by Katharine (Kathy) Rayner, the Trust has acquired and will begin remediation and restoration of a 1.4-acre property on the corner of Montauk Highway and Wainscott Stone Road. “I am privileged to be able to give back to a place that has provided me with so much joy and beauty. Having lived on Georgica Pond for forty years I have witnessed its deterioration, and this project to protect the Pond comes from the heart,” said Katharine Rayner. “As a gardener, I look forward to learning a new vocabulary of native plants and working with Peconic Land Trust to restore a natural habitat on the Trust. “Upon learning from Kathy that the owner shore of Georgica Pond.” was actively considering offers on the property, Kim Quarty, our Senior Project Manager, worked with This property has been the site of notable restaurants broker Lori MacGarva to make it happen. Guided by for over 50 years. Its restoration will aid in improving Kathy’s commitment and vision, we are now preparing the health of the pond and surrounding natural habitat for the demolition of the structures on the property to by removing the building, septic system and leaching set the stage for its restoration, all to improve the health fields that have contributed to the degradation of the of Georgica Pond!” pond’s water quality. There will also be an opportunity to work with the Town of East Hampton and the Friends of Georgica Pond Foundation to address the Thank you Kathy for making this all possible! flow of contaminated surface water into the pond. To learn more about this critical water quality and habitat “Sometimes it takes years to make a conservation protection initiative, contact Kim Quarty, Senior Project purchase happen. In this case, it was literally weeks,” Manager, at [email protected], or Matt Swain, said John v.H. Halsey, President of the Peconic Land Director of Stewardship, at [email protected].
A Special Thank You to our Connections Presenters, Panelists & Contributors:
If you missed any Casey Chalem Anderson, Drianne Benner, of our programs, Rick Bogusch, Chris Browder, Ted Bucci, Scott you can find them on our website Chaskey, Moses Cucura, Susan D’Alessio, blog. We are in the Jessica Damiano, Laura Donnelly, Patty Gentry, planning stages Nancy Gilbert, Daniel Gilrein, Layton Guenther, for 2021 – with plans to host Zoom Jennifer Halsey-Dupree, Pete Haskell, Ira programs monthly, Haspel, Annette Hinkle, Carol Isles, Brian starting with a Kennedy, Greg Kessler, Will Lee, Christian Mir, discussion on the “Changing Tides in Jessica Morgan, Brendan O’Dwyer, Melissa Marine Farming” Parrott, Will Peckham, Jennifer Pike, Karen on January 21. Rivara, Charity Robey, Charity Joy Robinson, Justin Ruaysamran, Brian Smith, Kathryn We welcome your ideas for future programs. Szoka, Paul Wagner, Richard Wines, John
Witzenbocker, Tamson Yeh, and Bill Zalakar Balsam Fields Deborah Ann Light Preserve, Casey Chalem Anderson
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 3 Climate Resiliency
Climate and Conservation: Now and for Future Generations he challenges of this year are still with us. As we With your support, the Trust is strategically Tadapt to changes brought on by the pandemic, conserving land a) with prime agricultural soils, b) we continue to hear how various stages of economic within groundwater protection areas, and c) along lockdown have given Mother Earth moments of our vulnerable shorelines. recovery. But these moments, due to severely reduced travel and closures in factories, are fleeting. And, we are also providing workshops on land management practices to help growers and residents Nonetheless, perhaps this is a moment when we can implement: focus on actions that we can all take on a permanent basis to reverse the damage caused by climate change. • soil health practices that build soil, sequester carbon and reduce excess nitrogen, via composting, utilizing To reverse course, we must work toward a future cover crops, buffer plantings, and stormwater where we: management. • sustainable landscaping practices that encourage • emit fewer greenhouse gases • sequester carbon and build soil native plants, provide habitat for wildlife necessary • anticipate sea-level rise for pollination and biodiversity, and reduce or • increase our use and investment in eliminate the need for fertilizers and pesticides. renewable energy sources • improve our biodiversity by nurturing native Undeveloped, natural landscapes, including woodlands, plants and species – including pollinators farmlands, meadows and other natural habitats, • bolster our local food resources absorb carbon dioxide emissions. Wetlands and • protect our resilient wetlands and shorelines shorelines absorb storm surges and protect coastal to absorb storm surges communities. Growing food in our communities • reduce nutrients and runoff in surface waters reduces transportation costs and pollution related to that cause harmful algal blooms importing food. Using regenerative agriculture practices • expand and protect watersheds that recharge improves soil health and reduces the need for fertilizers our drinking water. and pesticides. So, if we work together to conserve Here on the East End, conservation and sustainable land more land, grow more food locally, care for our soil, management practices can help achieve these goals. and protect our shorelines we really can mitigate the negative impacts of climate change. 4 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Together, we can make a difference. The following are a few of the recent projects and programs that your support makes possible. Thank you! Living and Adaptable Shorelines Water Quality Properly managed wetlands and shorelines can On Long Island, the combination of continuing sea- provide storm surge protection. These lands act like level rise and increasing demand for drinking water sponges, absorbing salt water and reducing surface are colliding, intensifying salt-water intrusion into our runoff and the potential for harmful algal blooms. In sole source aquifer. By conserving land near drinking projects across Suffolk County, the Trust is working water wellheads and in sensitive areas of the aquifer, with scientists and communities to reduce erosion we reduce development in these areas and provide and implement solutions that restore formerly more land for water recharge. developed properties. Since 2017, we have received a grant match Most recently, the Trust worked with donor Katharine commitment of $9 million from New York State Rayner to acquire a former restaurant property in for the acquisition of land or the purchase of Wainscott see( page 3). Now we are in the process of development rights in the towns of Brookhaven, East removing the existing structures and implementing Hampton, Shelter Island and Southold for surface a restoration plan that will include new plantings of water quality, groundwater recharge areas, and native grasses and wetland vegetation. The Trust is drinking water protection. To date, we have closed on also working with the Town of East Hampton and three properties under this program, most recently in the Friends of Georgica Pond Foundation in ongoing Shelter Island. efforts to reduce the stormwater run-off into the pond from both Route 27/Montauk Highway and Wainscott In February 2020, the Trust acquired (and simultaneously Stone Road. Nitrogen and phosphorus from runoff re-conveyed to the Town of Shelter Island) six acres on are major contributors to the harmful algal blooms Shelter Island to protect groundwater by enabling the that have stressed many of our local ponds and bays, naturally recurring replenishment of the aquifer. The including Georgica Pond. woodland was a conservation priority because of its Located where Talmage Creek flows into Georgica location near a public drinking water wellhead and Pond, the property sits within the 4,000-acre Georgica its relatively high recharge potential for the island’s Pond Watershed.* The protection of this land will aquifer. revert a developed property back to nature (today, approximately 59 percent of the land within the The land will be maintained for passive recreation, watershed is developed*). The area is home to a such as hiking and birdwatching. A foot trail, trail wide-range of birds, reptiles, finfish and shellfish, and markers, and a trailhead kiosk are being considered. native plants and trees — including osprey, snapping We expect to close on another property in the Town of turtles and blue crabs. Brookhaven by year end. *source: Friends of Georgica Pond Foundation
North Menantic Preserve, Shelter Island
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 5 Climate Resiliency
Soil Health and Local Food The Trust’s Farms for the Future Initiative, with its focus on food production farming, is providing resources to acquire, lease, resell, and restore farmland across Suffolk County. A key component of the program is keeping the agricultural lands healthy and viable for a diverse range of food-related crops -- including the requirement that lands under lease must be in cover crop when not actively in food production. Seasonal cover crops (Summer and Winter) protect the soil participated in a number of cover crop trials at our from erosion, manage nitrogen cycling, and Agricultural Center in Southold to see which are most provide important nutrients that build up the soil effective here on Long Island. Trials have shown that for future plantings. sunn hemp and a mix of sorghum sudangrass, and In 2020, the Trust leased over 200 acres of farmland sunn hemp in summer, and rye in winter were the to both new and established farmers across the East best performers. End – a total of 28 different farm operations. These All of this and more we are able to do included vegetables, quail, hogs, snails, flowers, everyday with your support! herbs, and bees! Additionally, the Trust continues to work with the Sisters of St. Joseph in Brentwood helping Interested in continuing the conversation? Contact Melanie to manage its farmland leases with six growers. Cirillo, Director of Conservation Programs, at MCirillo@ PeconicLandTrust.org, Matt Swain, Director of Stewardship, Working with the soil health specialists at Cornell at [email protected], or Dan Heston, Director of Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County, we have Agricultural Programs, at [email protected]. New Preserve Dawns on Great Hog Neck e are pleased to announce that over 50 acres with the Trust Wof woodland will now be available for passive to see this recreation with the recent purchase of 29.8 acres by the land be open, Trust from the Reese family. The new preserve, named available and after the family’s father, Harold A. Reese Preserve, is contributing located adjacent to the Trust’s Wolf Preserve (23 acres) to the natural on the Great Hog Neck peninsula. The land will be resources of available for hiking and exploring in the future as part the North of the expansion and improvement of the existing trail Fork,” said system at the Wolf Preserve, thanks to your support. Harold Reese, Jr.
By conserving the land’s ecology, the new preserve will The property contribute significantly to the area’s resiliency to the has been effects of climate change, provide important wildlife owned by the Reese family since the mid-1960s and is habitat, and contribute to groundwater protection in predominantly woodland, with a 1-acre area of fresh this part of the Peconic Bay Estuary. Acquisition of the water wetlands and is on the Peconic Estuary Program’s Reese property was made possible by the Reese family’s Critical Land Protection list. choice of a bargain sale, and also by accessing a line-of- “This is an extraordinary opportunity to protect and credit provided by an anonymous donor to the Trust. conserve a significant amount of land in the Great Hog The acquisition was completed on November 25. Neck area. We thank the Reese family for recognizing “Having been in real estate development on the North the importance of conserving this environmentally Fork for over 50 years, our family saw this property sensitive area of the Peconic Bay Estuary and for as an important opportunity to preserve land in an working with our team, led by Project Manager Holly ecologically sensitive part of the North Fork and to Sanford,” said Trust President John v.H. Halsey. recognize our father’s important contribution to the To learn more, contact Holly Sanford, Project Manager, at community. We are pleased to have been able to work [email protected], or Matt Swain, Director of Stewardship, at [email protected]. 6 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Water Quality News Restoring the Health of Sagg Pond in Sagg Pond, Sagaponack. The pond has been closed for shellfishing by the NYSDEC, and public warnings have been issued regarding recreational use. Thus far, Dr. Gobler and his team have been able to use microbial source tracking to identify major contaminants in the waterbody. This included fecal contamination from dogs and small mammals, which was most likely transported to the pond via surface runoff. Gobler’s team installed a monitoring buoy in the pond to receive ongoing, real-time data on the temperature, salinity, and dissolved oxygen levels of the pond. This summer, readings from the buoy hit he Trust has always looked for innovative ways bloom levels. Tto safeguard Long Island’s fragile water supply. We have done this by identifying critical recharge Additionally, the team installed oyster cages in the areas, protecting watersheds, and remediating when pond to assess the feasibility of using these filter needed. But we also care about our surface waters, feeders as a water quality remediation approach to the bays, ponds, and lakes that surround us. help remove excess nitrogen from the water. With As part of this effort, the Trust has worked for the support of the community, and in partnership decades to improve water quality in coastal ponds on with Southampton Town and the Town Trustees, the South Fork, including Lake Agawam, Wickapogue the Trust will support additional research to inform Pond, Georgica Cove, and Mill Pond. We have the preparation of a Sagg Pond Management/ worked with neighbors and local experts to raise Revitalization Plan. funds in support of water quality research and long- Once the plan is complete, the Trust will help term initiatives. coordinate remediation efforts, raise both public and Most recently, in 2019, the Trust partnered with private funds to support the effort, and promote best SUNY Stony Brook’s Dr. Chris Gobler, Endowed practices among watershed residents to restore the Chair of Coastal Ecology and Conservation, to health of Sagg Pond. fund a comprehensive, multi-year study aimed at To learn more about this critical project, contact Matt Swain, understanding the causes of blue-green algal blooms Director of Stewardship, at [email protected].
Extend your impact and become a Peconic Partner Your monthly gift to the Annual Fund helps protect our working farms, natural lands, and heritage. Without your support, our work would not be possible. Thank you. Giving is easy! Simply return the enclosed gift envelope, or visit us online. www.PeconicLandTrust.org/give Call us at 631.283.3195 or email us at: [email protected]
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 7 Farms for the Future New Cattle Farm Grows in Southold eeping agricultural lands growing up in Ireland. I’ve been Kin production and available running a construction business to farmers looking to start or and raising five kids with my wife expand operations is a primary for the past 30 years, and for the component of our Farms for last five years have been asking the Future Initiative. We are myself, where did the last 25 years so pleased to recently sell 19.2 go. Having a farm and the beautiful acres of protected farmland Peconic Bay is the best of both worlds and associated buildings and for me and my family. I decided it structures in Southold to John was time to do what I loved as a kid Murnane of Olde Road Farm LLC growing up and maybe slow down a in September. little,” said Mr. Murnane. The farmstead will be added to “We are excited to see this farmstead Olde Road Farm’s existing 18 have a new life as part of John’s acres. Mr. Murnane is in the early expanding cattle operation. Keeping stages of establishing a beef farmland in active agriculture, and cattle farm operation in Southold. supporting many different types of farm operations, is important as we all work toward keeping agriculture Mr. Murnane grew up on a farm in Ireland and has viable in, and integral to, our communities,” said Dan had a home in Southold for the past 18 years. He Heston, Director of Agricultural Programs at the Trust. currently has 15 Wagyu cattle with plans to expand the farm to include sheep and chickens and other To learn more about supporting local farmers and the Farms for crops. He initially plans to make repairs to the barns the Future Initiative, contact Dan Heston, Director of Agricultural and to plant the fields in grazing crops for his cattle. Programs, at [email protected], or Jessie Marcus, “I’ve wanted to get back into farming as I had Stewardship Manager, at [email protected]. Gajeski Family: Building on a Tradition of Conservation n June, the Gajeski family built upon the wholesale vegetable Iconservation legacy of Benny and Eleanor Gatz with business, Gajeski the protection of farmland in Riverhead. Produce, and a Felix and William Gajeski of Jamesport sold their retail farmstand, development rights on 7.5 acres of farmland through Northville Farms, the Suffolk County Farmland Preservation Program. on Sound Avenue in The land has been actively farmed for over 100 years Riverhead. and is part of a 410-acre block of productive, but “We are honored to unprotected, farmland. The Gajeski brothers are the once again be able first landowners to preserve farmland in this part of to help the Gatz/ Jamesport, between the Main Road and the railroad, Gajeski family with and Herricks and Laurel Lanes. the protection of Also in June, Brian and Deborah Gajeski sold farmland in the Gwen Gatz Gajeski, Abigail Gajeski, and development rights to the County on two building lots Town of Riverhead Deborah Gajeski. in the Northville area of Riverhead on Sound Avenue. under the Suffolk The lots, totaling 3.1 acres, are adjacent to previously County Farmland Protection Program. As the first protected farmland and are part of a nearly 1,000-acre initiative of this type in the country, the County’s contiguous block of protected farmland. program continues to work with our farming community to ensure that agriculture remains strong The Gajeskis’ are descendants of Benny and Eleanor and viable on Long Island. We thank the Gajeskis for Gatz, who sold development rights on over 50 acres their commitment to farming!” said Trust President of farmland in 2002 and 2003. Mr. Gatz is the father John v.H. Halsey. of Felix Gajeski’s wife Gwen Gatz Gajeski and the To learn more contact Julie Wesnofske, Project Manager, at grandfather of Brian Gajeski. The family operates the [email protected].
8 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Conservation News Conservation in Setauket on Little Bay and Conscience Bay And, in December 2019, the Trust hanks to you and acquired a .72-acre parcel from the the NYS Department T Tyree family, which includes a single of Enviromental family residence. Plans for the site Conservation, natural are still pending. resources in the community of Setauket The goals of conservation efforts in are being protected. In the area are to protect against sea- late September, the Trust level rise and coastal erosion, aid in and the Stell family safeguarding the water quality of protected 3.3 acres the local bays, and preservation of along Little Bay and the area’s rich history as part of the Conscience Bay. American Revolution. The area is This is the latest where the Culper Spy Ring originated acquisition along Dyke and operated. Road. In 2014, the Trust acquired a 1.12-acre parcel. “Every piece of property we can protect in these This property was the first upland area added to an coastal communities can help combat the impacts existing 52-acre Conscience Bay-Little Bay State Tidal of climate change while also preserving the rural Wetland. The Trust sold the property to New York characteristics of Long Island,” said John v.H. Halsey, State in 2015. President, Peconic Land Trust. Wetlands along Brushy Neck Creek in Westhampton Protected ongratulations and Over 100 species of fish, birds and plants can be found Csincere thanks to in the area, including diamondback terrapin and the DiPirro/Dederick loggerhead sea turtles and seals. A wide variety of family and the Town migratory, breeding, and wintering birds, including of Southampton for the peregrine falcons, terns, osprey and owls, also find most recent conservation refuge and food here. of 1.7 acres along As part of the Atlantic flyway, the area provides places to rest Brushy Neck Creek in and nest for the many species of birds who make their way Westhampton. With north and south as well as for those who call Long Island their a rich wildlife habitat home all year round. and scenic views, the undeveloped property The newly protected land is located across Brushy sits at the eastern end of Neck Creek from our Jagger Preserve and near our Moriches Bay Estuary Tanners Neck Preserve. Southampton Town has also and was identified by protected land in the area for parkland and open space, the Town as a conservation priority. providing for many acres of land to help balance the estuary’s health. The Town acquired the property from the DiPirro/ “As someone who grew up here, it is important to me – Dederick family in September and it will now be a and my family – to support conservation efforts on nature preserve. The family reached out to the Trust in early 2019, working with Senior Project Manager Kim Eastern Long Island. Without our beautiful and Quarty, to begin a conversation with the Town. ecologically healthy waters, wetlands, beaches, and wildlife, we lose the very essence of what defines this As recent storms have proven, providing buffers — community and why many of us choose to live here,” especially in areas along our fragile salt marshes like said Carolann DiPirro. this one — aids in coastal resilience by reducing the destructive impacts of storm surge hastened by the To learn more about these conservation stories, or if you know of impacts of climate change. This is beneficial not only to a property within your community that could be an opportunity the people living near the water, but also provides for a for conservation, contact Melanie Cirillo, Director of Conservation healthy environment for our local wildlife. Planning, at [email protected] or Kim Quarty, Senior Project Manager, at [email protected]. www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 9 Bridge Gardens Savoring the Gardens’ Bounty ne highlight of the late summer season at Bridge What is your favorite OGardens were workshops on fermented food, fermented food to make? featuring community gardener Justin Ruaysamran. Hands down, I love my Thai Justin, who has a popular Instagram page fermented pork ribs, which is @Justinmakesmyown, partnered with Rick Bogusch to rarely available in restaurants. share the easy steps to creating delicious and healthy My basement always has fermented foods. First up was sauerkraut using a supply of kraut, kimchi, cabbage from Bridge Gardens, then recipe-enhancing miso, pepper paste, mead fermented pepper paste using the late-September and kombucha. Also, my pepper harvest, then miso to pair with Bridge Gardens sourdough starter has been vegetables in various dishes. We concluded the going for over three years. series by making kimchi using carrots, radishes and cabbage. What inspired you to join the BG community garden, and Justin shared his story: how would you describe this experience? In gardening, we often find ourselves alone. It is probably What inspired you to get started fermenting food? a large reason why many of us are drawn to the activity, to Food fermentation combines a number of interests and values be alone with nature. While I do garden in my backyard, I hold. The first is preservation in that fermentation can I also wanted to participate in Bridge Gardens because of extend the life of food, resulting in less food waste, a reduction in environmental impact, cost savings to my grocery the community. I love watching, and learning, how others spending, and a show of respect to the hard work put into turn a small plot of land into a productive harvest. Rick has cultivating and getting the food to my kitchen. Another provided valuable and practical guidance. And I have enjoyed reason is historical, as humans have employed fermentation giving back to the community through my fermentation techniques for thousands of years across all cultures, and I demonstrations. want to make sure these practices do not get lost to modern, often industrial, food manufacturing processes. Another Bridge Gardens reason is accessibility, as we have discussed in our blog series. Most fermentation techniques require little equipment, maybe 36 Mitchell Lane, Bridgehampton. a jar, and the simplest of ingredients: salt and time. Finally, Open daily from 10am – 4pm, is taste, because fermentation techniques can produce flavor profiles not found in employing any other technique. with free admission.
How long have you been making fermented food? If you are interested in learning more about what makes Bridge I tried to recreate pickles when I was a kid. The curiosity never left. Gardens grow, contact Rick Bogusch, Garden Director, at [email protected].
Garden Tips: Protecting Your Plants from Storms
ith more and more chances for storms here garden plants from falling limbs, and beautify the Win the northeast, here are a few tips from surrounding landscape. Dan Heston to consider when you are planting and harvesting next year: Plant between hedgerows. Laying out a tender planting with hedgerow protection is a must on Pick your fruits and veggies as quickly and Long Island. Hurricanes and tropical storm winds timely as possible. The old farmer’s adage says: generally come in from the southeast, move to the No matter how good a crop looks in the fields it’s southwest, and then pass with winds moving to the really non-existent until it is harvested and safely in northwest. Keep this in mind as you lay out your your cooler. So, if there is a hurricane in the forecast, garden. Large plantings like deciduous trees with harvest everything you can. base shrubs or bushy evergreens make excellent wind breaks. But shrubby plants like berry bushes Prune carefully before storm season. Pruning or low growing fruit trees can also be used to surrounding trees by carefully thinning them out protect more fragile crops. Just lay your garden out so the Long Island winds can safely sail through with plantings between the rows of shrubs. them will save you on clean up time, protect your
10 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Bridge Gardens Remembering Jim Kilpatric n 2008, Bridge Gardens founders Jim Kilpatric Iand Harry Neyens made a decision that has since impacted more people than can be estimated. They donated their beloved Bridge Gardens Trust to the Peconic Land Trust, to ensure that this public garden could be enjoyed and appreciated by the community in perpetuity. We are deeply saddened to know that Jim Kilpatric recently passed away but want to share the impact their generous gift has made to the community. Because of Jim and Harry, the Peconic Land Trust has a place to demonstrate sustainable living practices Jim leading a tour of Bridge Gardens in 2008 that showcase a sensitivity to the environment. Since receiving their gift over 12 years ago, the Trust has and beyond. Jim, and his partner Harry, have worked to create a place where people come together created a lasting legacy, one that will be enjoyed and to explore, learn, and relax. Offering everything from experienced by countless visitors and for that we are organic landscape practices and how-to workshops sincerely thankful. on vegetable gardening, native plants and organic rose care, to children’s activities, live music in the garden and art classes, Bridge Gardens has become a community gathering place. We couldn’t have done this without Jim and Harry’s commitment to the Bridgehampton community
Offering Respite and Resources to Many id you have a chance to visit Bridge Gardens Dthis year? If you did, you would have noticed that you were in good company. The Gardens saw more visitors this year than ever before. Time in nature provided many people a break from the stresses of the year and many took time to explore regularly, enjoying the colorful changes that happen throughout the garden’s many beds. While our usual in-person workshops were put on The Gardens bloomed this year, thanks in part to hold, we adjusted to virtual programs using both the hard work and dedication of Bridge Gardens' Zoom and video. We hope you enjoyed them! Assistant Shawn Gant. Shawn worked closely with Rick Don’t worry if you missed any, all the virtual throughout the season to manicure the hedges, maintain programming is available to view on our website the planting beds, and tend to the vegetable gardens. blog. Many feature Garden Director Rick Bogusch sharing his extensive horticulture knowledge on Thank you Shawn! everything from seeding carrots, lettuce and beets, And a big thank you to all the volunteers who helped to creating healthy soil through compost, to walks at the Gardens this summer, including Carol Ahlers, through the 4-quadrant herb garden. Rick was also Susan Barbieri, Lacy Doyle, Susan Edwards, Elio joined by Paul Wagner of Greener Pastures Organics on several lawncare workshops. And a new series Floro, Bernard Hayduk, Regina Humanitski, Ed Krois, took shape, “My Bridge Gardens,” featuring several Joe Lane, Linda Massis, Tom Oleszczuk, Heidi Rain, people sharing their love of Bridge Gardens. Bobbi Rosko, Cathy Tepper, Mark Turner, Jackie Watson, and Matt Ziskin.
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 11 Farms for the Future Growing for the Community armers and onsite community garden hosted 52 Fgardeners made community garden members. The fields this year at the were productive and an important part Agricultural Center of the community’s local food resources. at Charnews Farm However, the long, dry mid-summer a success. season along with the tropical storm As a season of Isaias in August had some negative uncertainty and impacts – as did pests and disease. concern unfolded, As a result, the Farms for the Future the team had to take team is working with Annmarie a new approach Calabro from Suffolk County Soil to make the fields and Water District to develop a pest ready for the farmers management plan for the Ag Center and gardeners. property. We hope to have it available With COVID-19 appearing early on the North Fork, Dan before the start of the 2021 growing season. The Heston along with Jessie Marcus and Brendan Minogue management plan will be a resource for our farmers worked together, getting the farm fields and community and gardeners at the Ag Center as well as more gardens ready and prepped. broadly throughout the community. This season, the farm hosted five farmers in the To learn more about the farm leasing program at the Ag Center, incubator fields, plus three in the outlying fields across contact Dan Heston, Director of Agricultural Programs, at Horton’s Lane and on the north side of Route 48. The [email protected] or Jessie Marcus, Stewardship Manager, at [email protected]. Case House Renovations Continue With donations from the community and some funding from the sale of the 19 acres of farmland to Olde Road Farm (see page 8), work began replacing the roof, siding, windows, plumbing, and electricity. These renovations are expected to be completed before the winter sets in. Then work will turn to the his summer also saw work renew on the interior with the installation of a new kitchen and Trenovation of the Case House. The house moved bathrooms. to Cleo’s Corner back in the winter of 2019. The initial work included a new foundation and septic We still need your help! system and grading the property. A fundraising campaign to support the renovations began and over Your donations are needed to keep this project going! 200 donors responded! $250,000 in additional funds will enable us to have the
In the late winter and early spring of 2020, with the Case House ready to lease to a local farmer in 2021. Coronavirus lockdown upon us, work on the Case If you are interested in learning more or would like to make House paused. But by the summer, we were up and a contribution to this effort, please contact Alison Delaney, running again on the next phase with builder Sid Beebe. Development Officer, at [email protected].
12 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Farms for the Future Getting to Know
CommunityCommunity Gardeners Gardeners Give Give Back Back big thank you to the Ag Center Community top of the bag. AGardeners! They showed their community spirit I had barely by tending garden plots for CAST (Community Action handed over Southold Town) and donating produce from their own the bag when garden plots to this vital food pantry. Beans, tomatoes, a client asked peppers, lettuce, herbs, squash, and more were if she could harvested and shared with the pantry this year. have some The effort was led by Jean-Marie Sanchez, who chard. Her eyes coordinated the harvests and delivery to CAST. Many absolutely lit of the community gardeners contributed to this up at seeing the program, including Jeannette Coane, Dean Sambach, colorful vegetables just picked a 1/2 hour earlier. Claire Spiezio, Molly MacDermot, Bonnie Stock, Vinny It made my week.” MonteForte, Jeannie Calderale, John Castiglione and Thank you Jean-Marie and all of the participating Brett Anderson. community gardeners. Your generosity of time “It’s been the highlight of the past few months to grow and spirit has truly been inspiring! vegetables and share them with people,” said Jean- To learn more about becoming a community gardener at the Marie. “On a recent delivery I arrived during pick up Ag Center at Charnews Farm, contact Brendan Minogue, hours. A bunch of rainbow chard was sticking out of the Land Steward, at [email protected]. Dan Heston, Director of Agricultural Programs Since joining the Trust that, along with showing up on time was the extent of in 2007, Dan Heston has the job requirement. provided extraordinary The fact that my best friend, now wife, was my work guidance to our Farms for partner made the position sustainable. We’d ride out the Future Initiative . . . together to the corn fields on the back of a hay wagon take a moment to meet Dan too sleepy to talk. The only sound the low murmur and learn more about his of the men quietly talking among themselves. The sun would slowly rise, and the hushed tones would relationship to the land and inevitably evolve into happy chatter. By 9 am, farming. quitting time, I was soaking wet, hungry, and happy. I was free to spend the rest of the day as I pleased. ’ve come to appreciate the farm fields of Long Island Since those first early mornings I have raised Imore than ever over the last few months. As I’ve goats, rabbits, pheasant, quail, geese, ducks and watched others shutter businesses and shelter in place, chickens. My college years were spent focusing on I’ve been grateful to have the farm work. It never ends. environmental studies. Along the way, I also became And, in its own way, it helps me keep this crazy world an ASE licensed mechanic and certified arborist. in perspective. Today, in addition to helping my wife manage our Regardless of viruses, politics, racial injustices, and own farm — Salt Air Farm — I oversee the Trust’s computers – the seasons roll on. The plants need Farms for the Future Initiative. pruning, the machinery needs servicing, the irrigation Agriculture helps to connect each of us to our and wells need to be maintained, the fields must be surrounding environment. Textbooks and computers prepped on time and the seeds planted. It is both can only take us so far. Awakening a child, or exhausting and grounding. Some days it’s the ultimate reawakening an adult, to the sounds, smells, and blessing and some days a curse. sights of the natural world helps to ensure the gift will I grew up hunting the local farm fields and fishing the be safely passed down to another generation. nearby ponds and streams of the Maryland countryside I’ve logged in a lot of time working in farm fields each day after school. On the weekends in the summer since those first early morning hours. And, I’ve spent months I spent the early morning hours bagging corn a lot of time learning the business end of farming. I’m for a local farmer. I hated it. The 5 a.m. start time, still learning. Every day is different. Every day is the dewy wet corn fields that swallowed me alive, the new. But, some lessons stick with you. One truth I’ve sustained concentration required for the job were hard gleaned over the years is that the preservation of our to muster at the age of 6. But, I could count to 50, and farmland is key to a healthy, happy tomorrow.
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 13 Quail HIll Farm An Extraordinary Year | A Note from Layton Guenther 020 was a year of extraordinary growth and New 2transition at Quail Hill Farm. In my first full year community as director, I approached the season with renewed partnerships commitment to our mission: to grow good food, were also cultivate community, and train new farmers in the forged in the practices of regenerative agriculture. economic I was heartened to see the optimism and steadfastness shutdown that the members brought to this year, which launched that saw local with challenges that could have derailed our operations. food pantries And yet, in the face of great uncertainty, the farm balloon with community of members and growers rose up with new clients mettle and mirth to envision a season of abundance, facing food possibility, and promise. insecurity. In late March, at the urging of two Quail Hill Farm members who wished to investigate how we As a small farm, our margins are tight in every way; could make our produce available to families in need, each employee hired, every seed purchased, and we reached out to the staff at the Bridgehampton Child every CSA membership determines how our farm Care and Recreational Center (The Center) and learned fares overall from year to year. When the economic that their food pantry was allocating more food than shutdown came to call on our East End towns, Quail ever before: over 700 people, weekly, with no consistent Hill, like many farms, experienced a spike in demand supply of fresh vegetables-- an increase from 70 people from individual consumers seeking alternatives to per month pre-COVID. picked-over grocery store offerings, while also seeing the consequences bear down on our restaurant partners Farm to Food Pantry as they shifted their business models. In response to With seed funding from two Quail Hill Farm members, the accelerating pandemic, we instituted a hiring freeze and the leadership of Ms. Bonnie Cannon, The Center’s while offering pay-what-you-can farm shares in the Executive Director, we designed a pilot Farm to Food early spring. Usually, one speaks of March as coming Pantry program to allocate excess produce from our “in like a lion, out like a lamb,” but this year the reverse farm to our community partners at no cost, thanks to was true. private donations and a grant from All for the East End So many of our best-laid plans for 2020 were scuttled: (AFTEE) at the Long Island Community Foundation. an Americorps invasive species removal project, As farmers, the Farm to Food Pantry program has educational elements of our hallmark apprenticeship elevated a sense of purpose in our work: apprentices program, restaurant-supported agriculture programs have consistently expressed their passion for the pilot with local chefs. On top of this, our beloved farm program, which has seen over ten tons of produce community events like the breakfast, potluck and At harvested and distributed to East End families through the Common Table were all canceled. Nevertheless, The Center’s networks. members and farmers found new and meaningful ways In a year that has brought untold challenges to most, the to engage with Quail Hill. Quail Hill Farm community of farmers, eaters and CSA members have responded with empathy, clarity and courage. Our beloved farm members donated over one thousand hours of their time to assist in the roll-out of COVID safety protocols at the farm as well as helping out in the fields, lifting the spirits (and lightening the workload!) of old and new farmhands alike. Although 2021 will likely not see a tidy resolution to all of the chaotic renderings of this pandemic, we will face the coming season with the blueprint of how to grow for a resilient future. With both feet firmly planted on our Amagansett silt loam, we’re already eagerly preparing for another season of abundance, community and connection. To learn more about Quail Hill Farm, contact Layton Guenther, Farm Director, at [email protected].
14 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org A Note from The Center
“Quail Hill Farm and the Peconic Land Trust have been a God-Send for our food pantry recipients. We are so grateful for the partnership. Thank you for supplying us, and for helping us to learn so much about different varieties of produce. Layton’s Instagram Live talks with Mr. Doug, teacher, chef, and culinary expert at The Center, have been very beneficial for our program. Teaching nutrition and healthy eating have always been part of our curriculum. Our cooking classes have been inspired by learning about all the new types of greens and vegetables. We look forward to collaborations in the future. Thank you so much Peconic Land Trust, Quail Hill Farm, and AFTEE!”
Bonnie Michelle Cannon, Executive Director, Bridgehampton Child Care & Recreational Center The Center’s Ms.Gloria Cannon & the Trust’s Alison Delaney with Quail Hill Farm produce at The Center.
Giving Our Thanks to: Eunice and Robert Burnett Ann Menger-Wronski James Vos and Stephanie Joyce Robert Calvert and Mary Woltz Joel Miller Lenore Weitzman Emma Quaytman and the 40 Andrew Scheman and Hope Millholland Sarah and Sandy Wiener Annie Chanler Julie Monroid Willi Pascale and Christine Hoar Quail Hill Farm volunteers she Channing Daughters Winery Bonnie Mountain Richard and Debbie Wilpon led this past season for donating Sylvie De Bois Chantecaille and Amanda and Donald Mullen Dayna Winter and Marc Schulz their time and toil to make this Olivier Chantecaille Deborah Nevins Melanie Woods and Karel Vitale season truly meaningful. Mary Chaskey Christine and Philip O’Connell Julie and Joe Zaykowski Lori and Alexandre Chemla Melissa and Steven Olson Ruth Ziegler Kevin Coffey, Laura Fenton and Melissa Chow and Kevin Doyle Christopher Panczner and William, Rachel Sabnani, Emily Stuart Close and Donna Wagner Maura Dickler Supporters of the Sabnani, Thalia Nierenberg, Peter and Nina Cobb Donna and Cary Park Kevin Coffey and Laurie Petroske Farm to Food Pantry program Cathy Tepper, Nikki LaBranche, Kathleen Masters Joseph Potter at Quail Hill Farm: Ed Krois, Joan Hayden, Stephanie Jonathan and Ellen Coven Patty Puma Joyce, Gaia Filicori, Micaela Catherine Crane Katherine Rabinowitz and All for the East End (AFTEE) Durand, Susan Malfa, Jon Rose, Heather Cusack Rameshwar Das Brian Armstrong and Beth Kastner, Alex Kamper, William and Marguerite de Jonge Erin and Craig Reicher Suzanne Donovan Susan Victor Del Rio Anna Riehl Ranjana Armstrong Jack Saltzman, Jane Weissman, Robin’s Kitchen, Robyn Diederiks Melissa Roach Bob Baldwin and Margaret Sieck Cheyenne and Johnny Morris, Jacquelyn Rossi Donlon and Hilary Rodgers Piraye Beim Gina Abatemarco, Patrice Dalton, Dennis Donlon Susan Malfa and Jonathan Rose Caroline and Adam Beshara Melanie Woods, Annabel Barnett, Maureen Fairlie and Joan Falcetta Meryl Rosofsky J Brooke Ross Watts, Alex Rittscher, Jimmy Kelly Faloon and Marcelle and Marc Rothenberg Marcia Bystryn Kathleen Donahue David Saltzman and Lori and Alexandre Chemla Cash, Sophi Kholegashvili, Donna Randi Feldman Elizabeth Doyle Melissa Chow and Kevin Doyle Lewis, Lindsay Morris, Hannah Emily Reycroft and Patrick Fluery Jeremy Samuelson and Jonathan and Ellen Coven Solis-Cohen, Mary Ann Petrozzo, Emily and Huntley Garriott Carissa Katz Kim Folks Pamela Choy, Michael Smaldone, Melissa Germano, New York Peace Erin Schiff Jane and David Kastan Madelaine Haberman, Matt of Mind Acupuncture Jane Schmitz Beth Kastner Fredric Gilde and Tracy Peterson Regina and John Scully Suzanne and Brian Leaver Sprung, Hillary Suchman, Justin Annette Grant Melissa Kasper Shapiro and Kenneth and and Sammy Girshon. Katherine Guenther Stephen Shapiro Jeanne Levy-Church Martha Guenther Alyssa and David Small Jacqueline LiCalzi The Hilaria and Tom Spahr and Susan Stout The Long Island Community Alec Baldwin Foundation Lori and Aaron Spechler Foundation Glen Johnson Charline Spektor Bonnie Mountain Supporters of D. Stephen and Mary Keating Monika and Robert St. Jean Deborah Nevins Quail Hill Farm: Paula Kessler Kathryn Staley Carrie and Craig O’Brien Emily and Sean King Roseann Stanzione Meryl Rosofsky Fred Abatemarco Stephen and Michele Klausner Brandy and David Stellings Anthony Schlesinger and Seth Aidinoff Nicole Labranche Nick Stephens Anne Forward Laurie Anderson Anne G. Lange Joshua Stillman and Inna Postolov Marjorie Silver and Doug Block Ranjana Armstrong Kenneth and Jeanne Levy-Church Elizabeth Strong-de Cuevas Susan Spungen and Steven Kasher John Bacon Michael Light Summerhill Landscapes, Inc. Nancy Tainiter and Michael Lomont Piraye Beim Karen Magovern Judith Taylor Judith Taylor Jason Bell and Irina Anguelova Robert Marshall Alice and John Tepper Marlin Danielle Tessitore Arja Berg Jill Glover and William McAllister Juri Tint James Vos and Stephanie Joyce Caroline and Adam Beshara Heather McCallion and Peter and Laura Treadway David Wells and Laura Fenton Rick Bogusch Vinode B. Ramgopal Irene and Chris Vitti Sheila Zaslower
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 15 Over the past year, we are Grateful to our . . . Supporters at all levels for joining us in looking towards a future that values the working farms, natural lands, and the heritage we all share.
PECONIC LEGACY CIRCLE Katharine Rayner Elaine Greene Weisburg Peconic Legacy Circle members have let us Jim and Cheryl Reeve Wade Guyton know their intention to remember the Trust in Carolyn and Marc Rowan Susan Koehn Habermann and their estate planning. Legacy gifts are among Barbara Slifka Matthew Habermann the most meaningful ways to ensure that Long Philippa Weismann and Lucy Veltri Anne and John Hall Island’s beautiful beaches, clean water, working Ken and Megan Wright Amy and Doug Halsey farms, majestic woodland and pristine wetlands Lisa Hess will be protected for generations to come. Jonathan Hoefler and Carleen Borsella Jessica Hoffman Brennan Carol Mulvihill Ahlers and Ronald Ahlers CONSERVATION COUNCIL The Houser Foundation Maddy Beckwith Conservation Council members support our Anne Hubbard Glorian Berk work and further the Trust’s mission in both Bettysue Hughes Thomas Chu an advisory and honorary capacity. Council John and Candice Frawley The David and Alice Hunt Family members are annual donors who gave $5,000 The J. Baker Foundation Nancy Gilbert and Richard Wines to $24,999. Susan Gullia Merrin Jenkins Lisa and Sim Johnston Jean Held Abraham and Mildred Goldstein Victoria Herbert Kate Cassidy Foundation Charitable Trust Anne Hopkins James Kilpatric and Harry Neyens Carol Mulvihill Ahlers and Ronald Ahlers Jane Iselin Karin and David Kuhns The Scully Peretsman Foundation, Kathleen King Judith and Alexander Laughlin Jessica Alfonsi Joe Mc Kay Kenneth and Jeanne Levy-Church All for the East End (AFTEE) Russell McCall Jacqueline LiCalzi Andrew Sabin Family Foundation Sandra Powers Michael Light Judith Saner Bob Baldwin and Margaret Sieck Sue Lonoff de Cuevas Rosa, Tony, and Geneva Smith Steve and Laura Bartholomew James MacGregor and Claire Montgomery Carol Steinberg Gregory Bauso The Makowski Trust Rosemary Terribile Evan Mason and Garrard Beeney Carole Greene-Mavity and Richard Mavity Ruth and Leonard Benowich Joe Mc Kay BNB Bank and Bridge Abstract Meryl Meltzer, Romenesa Foundation Rick Bogusch Joyce Menschel Barbara Braun - The Neuwirth Foundation TRUSTEES COUNCIL Jessica Mezzacappa and John Zieman Rob and Carolyn Brennan Trustees Council members support our Mary and Garrett Moran Kathleen and Travis Brown work and further the Trust’s mission in both Alison Morgridge Burt and Stanley Shaffer Foundation an advisory and honorary capacity. Council Olivia Motch John Buttrick members are donors who gave at the $25,000 Daniel and Brooke Neidich Marcia Bystryn level or more, and/or those who have made an Jan Nicholson Lori and Alexandre Chemla extraordinary lifetime gift to the Trust. Outstanding in the Field, Inc. Michael Coles and Edie Landeck Raquel and Jeremy Palmer Avalon Nature Preserve Comax Flavors Sandy and Stephen Perlbinder Gabrielle and Louis Bacon Milton Cooper Janet C. Ross Glorian Berk The Corcoran Group Judith Saner Matthew and Kimberly Cantor Jill and Mark Corwith Linda and Richard Schaps Peg and Peter D’Angelo Richard K. Corwith Maryam Seley Margaret de Cuevas and Eric Schott Christina Corwith Cole and Kevin Cole Katja Goldman and Michael Sonnenfeldt Peggy and Millard Drexler Harriet and Alan Dresher Stein Family, East Marion George A. Hambrecht and Michael Dukmejian and Polly Botti Lauren Stone/Roger and Susan Stone Andrea H. Fahnestock Charles P. Durkin, Jr. Family Foundation John and Sally Henry Susan Edwards and Ian Ziskin Peter Talty and Linda Stabler-Talty The Hilaria and Alec Baldwin Foundation Cornelia Erpf-Forsman and Paul Forsman John-Lansing J. Teal The Horace W. Goldsmith Foundation RaineyDay and John Erwin Lois Teich The Joyce & Irving Goldman Jim and Anna Fantaci Lizzie and Jonathan Tisch Family Foundation Ann ffolliott Diana and Rafael Vinoly Kathleen King Hans Flick and Celeste M. Kime Eric M. Wechsler and Philip A. Kovacevich Jo Carole and Ronald Lauder John and Candice Frawley Pamela Weekes and Constance McDonald The Long Island Community Foundation Brian Fuhrmann William C. Dowling Jr. Foundation Nancy and Howard Marks Joan Ganz Cooney Woodward Family Charitable Foundation Edward and Sandra Meyer Susan and Gary Garrabrant Roy J. Zuckerberg Family Foundation on The Moore Charitable Foundation Nancy Gilbert and Richard Wines behalf of Lloyd Zuckerberg and Amanda and Donald Mullen Suzanne and John Golden Charlotte Triefus 16 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL Judith and Warren Feder Helen and Mark Levine Lynn and John Savarese President’s Council members James Feigl Judith Little Sophia Schachter support our work and further the Laura and Michael Ferrante Patricia Lowry and John Touhey Elizabeth Schaffner Trust’s mission in both an advisory Frank and Louiza Ferrara Karen Magovern Val Schaffner and honorary capacity. Council Rosemary and Carlos Ferrer Mark and Nina Magowan Idoline Scheerer members are annual donors who Emilie Filmer-Wison Anthony Manheim and Stephen Schiller and gave $1,000 to $4,999. First Coastal Corporation Elaine Reis Manheim Elizabeth O’Brien Dawn Fischer and Stacey Friedman Marders Jill Schlesinger Diana and Kenneth Adams Gabriella Fitzgerald and Jake Creem Robert and Jane Matluck Fred Schmeltzer Jerome Adler and Beth Lebowitz Jan Flaherty Leslie and Thomas Matthews Cynthia and Donald Scholl Advantage Title Agency, Inc. Robert Fleischer and Susan Raanan The May Foundation Wendy Sclight and Gerald Monroe Michael and Sheryl Ahearn Anna Lou Fletcher Patricia McIntyre Regina and John Scully Eric Altman Donna Fletcher Mary McKay Marianne and Dom Seddio Dr. Paula J. Angelone and Stephanie and Lawrence Flinn, Jr. Renee and David McKee Joshua Lehrer and Jeffrey Seller Jerry Rosengarten Laura Flug Richard McNally Tracy and Eric Semler Emily Aspinall Margaret H. Fowler Leigh and Charles Merinoff Robert Serling Anne and Bruce Babcock The Fries Family Alistair G. C. Merrick Karen and Samuel Seymour John Bacon Martie and Rick Fritz Judith and David Miller Ben Shapiro Lisa M. Burrell Baker Anthony and Beth Galban Maryann and Bob Miller Melissa Kasper Shapiro and Leslie Barker Susan Gardner and Martha Cassidy Maryellyn and Thad Miller Stephen Shapiro Melissa Barnett Emily and Huntley Garriott Louise and David Milligan Dozie Sheahan Mr. and Mrs. Robert Baron Mary Ellen Geelan Linda Mirels Mariann and Kevin Simms Mary Beth Barrett Joan and Tom Geismar Dede Gotthelf and Terry Moan Rob and Christine Smart Jim and Ann Barry/ Louise Guarneri and Mary and Tom Morgan Rosa and Anthony Smith Artisan Mortgage Stephen Gelfman Bonnie Mountain Michael Halperin, Betsy Battle Emma Gilbey-Keller Mr. and Mrs. Daniel F. Murphy Solarus Technologies Bettina Equities Management LLC Kenneth Gilman and Carol Feinberg Robert Musser and South Country Farms LLC Barbara and Steven Baum Barbara Gladstone Barbara L. Francis Lisa Stamm Booher Shirley and Bob Bayley Nancy and Tom Gleason Robin Sieranski and Herbert J. and Marsha K. Stern Theresa Beaumont Mary Cox Golden Paul Nardone, Jr. Robert A.M. Stern Kathleen Kmet Becker Joanne and Thomas Gouge Samantha and Kevin Nasello Rand, Emilie, and Ben Stoll Maddy Beckwith James Grathwohl Nawrocki Smith LLP Jennifer Stone Kathy and Gene Bernstein Susan Gullia Deborah Nevins Elizabeth Strong-de Cuevas Bistrian Land Corporation Kris Tate Haber Elin and Michael Nierenberg Summerhill Landscapes, Inc. Suzanne Bloomer Madelaine Haberman and Connie and John Norbeck Taranto Family Foundation David Bohnett Michael Sprung Liza and John Nugent The Tarr Family Claire Boody Melinda Hackett Joseph Obermayer and Margaretta Taylor Robert Boyle Beecher Halsey and Nicolas Rutherford Lenard and Fern Tessler Patricia Ann Brennan Georgeann McGuinness Andrea Olshan Odell and Cheryl Tortoriello The Bridgehampton Association John Halsey and Janis Ebli-Halsey Michael Odell Barbara Traphagen Irene and Stephen Brotman William Hamilton Barbara Osif-Rousso Peter and Laura Treadway Marcus Bryan Tricia Hammes and John and Joan Owens Etta Tuttle Lisa and Richard Byers Jerome Mounier Marc Packer George and Mary Gwen James Cain Noel and Deborah Hare Sandra Pershing and Marc Keller Halsey Tyda Deborah Carmichael Susan Harrison and Sara Hart Barbara Phillips Robert Uher Joe and Maria Carney Susan and Kevin Heaney Sharon Pietrzak Glyn Vincent and Stacy Goodman Camilla and Rudy Cesarini The Hermance Family Foundation Jennifer and James Pike Andrea and Paul Vizcarrondo Pamela Choy Michael Herz and Jean Roiphe Lisa and Brian Pope Teri and Barry Volpert Adam Lewis and Thomas K. Chu Cantor-Rabbi Debra Stein and Nancy Posel James Vos and Stephanie Joyce Leslie and Cliff Cohen Alec Hirschfeld Tina Davis and Paul Powers Candace and Jonathan Wainwright Lillian and Joel Cohen Constance Hoguet Neel Nancy and Sheldon Prentice Cynthia Wainwright Joanne and Anthony Colletta Carolyn and David Holstein Bill Price Andrew Walsh Natalie Conklin Alain Machu and Diana Horowitz Rodney Propp Chris Wedge and Jeanne Markel Amy and William Conway Marguerita Howkins Joseph Pufahl Robin Weingast and Claire Zeppieri Cornucopia Natural Foods Carol and Tom Isles Anne and Jeff Pundyk Lisa Donneson and Henry Weisburg Helen and Paul Corwith Donna Issenberg Rachel Lynch Swimming Pools & Howard Weiss Emily and Erich Cramer Ann Marie and Stephen Jones Spas, Inc. Janine and Jonathan Weller Thomas Crane Carolina Zapf and John Josephson The Ravenswood Foundation Marissa Wesely and Alice and Harold Culver Harry Kamen Yvetta Rechler-Newman Fred Hamerman Anne Nickel Curtin Katy Kamen Suzanne and Philip Reynolds Lynda and Raymond Wesnofske Michael Daly Matthew Kaplan and Arleen and Robert Rifkind William and Phyllis Mack Ellen Darion and Roger Chudzik Karen Stone Kaplan Karen and Gregg Rivara Family Foundation Robert de Rothchild Kimberly and John Keiserman John and Amy Rocchetta Peter S. Wilson and Carol Deane Peggy and Al Kelly Leah and Greg Rodgers Scott K. Sanders Robert and Kristen DeLaMater Richard Kelsey and Sheila Rodgers and Patricia and Frederick Yosca Vishakha Desai and Robert Oxnam Barbara DiLorenzo Good Sheperd Farm Susan Kennedy Zeller Deborah and Richard DeVerna Patricia Kenner Malgorzata and Andrzej Rojek Donald and Barbara Zucker Laura Donnelly Anthony Kiser/The William and Susan Malfa and Jonathan Rose Fred Doss and John Gicking Mary Greve Foundation Daniel Rosen CPA Joanne and Issac Dowless Larry Klurfeld and Joele Frank Lori and Scott Rosen Courtenay and Bill Dunk Lisa Clare Kombrink and Thomas and Bobbi Rosko Suzanne Gluck and Thomas Dyja Jesse Camacho Jane and Reed Rubin Michael Escue, Elena and Howard Krotman William Ryall and Barry Bergdoll Max Lucy Group LLC Ed Krug and John Haubrich Maxwell Ryan Wendy and Michael Esposito Mara and Dean Landis Antonio and Michele Sacconaghi Emily and Nathaniel Ewing Anne G. Lange Carl Safina and Patricia Paladines ExxonMobil Corporation Wendy and Steven Langman Wiltraud Salm Julia Fahey and Ben Rice Liza and John Larkin Ann Sandford The Fanwood Foundation Kathy and Michael Lavyne Linda S. Sanford Farm Credit East Nan and Donald Leitch Arun and Rummi Sarin www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 17 PECONIC PARTNERS Lisa and Thomas Owens Robert Bennett and Patricia Berg Anita Knowlton and Peconic Partners support our work Joseph Pufahl Jennifer and Mitchell Berg Elaine Cornett-Lang and further the Trust’s mission by Robert Quaintance, Jr. and William Bernhard Barbara and George Koch making a recurring, monthly gift. Jane Azia Norah Bischoff and Jane Winsch Jane Kosovsky Monthly giving is the easiest and Sarah Parlow and Ron Ramanujam Patricia and Denis Bischoff Susan Kowalchuk and Neal Simon Robin and Jeroen Bours Lynn and George Krug most efficient way to support the Andrew Reynolds Tamsin Roe Mary and Edward Boyle Kevin Lalor and Virginia Selva Trust’s conservation work. Susannah Rosato Susan and William Boyles Gretchen and Peter Lang Elizabeth and David Branch Latham Sand & Gravel, Inc. Amanda Abraham Mike and Dipti Salopek Mark and Margot Bridgen Ethna and Lester Lay Jerome Adler and Beth Lebowitz Yvette DeBow and Rino Salsedo Ginger and Lloyd Brokaw Susannah Leete and Eli Martin Carol Mulvihill Ahlers and Randi and Jay Schneider Pennie and Paul Schwartz Margaret and Stanley Brown Lois Leonard Ronald Ahlers Clare Browne Louise Cohen and David Lewis Laurie Anderson Rachael and Jeffrey Schweon Regina and John Scully Jeanne and Joseph Burke Amy and Stephen Licata Thomas Babcock Constance and Gerard Case Vicki Lisa John Bacon Cliff and Wyndy Sloan Rosa and Anthony Smith Donna and Joel Catania Judith Little Muffie and Jim Baker Holly and J Mac Cato Roseanne Lofaso Jennifer Bartley Charline Spektor Roseann Stanzione Mr. and Mrs. Robert Chaffardet Mary and Blaise Lombardo Dianne Benson Barbara and Daniel Charnews Patricia Lowry and John Touhey Maria Bertero Joshua Stillman and Inna Postolov William and Vera Sweeney Lia and Philip Chasen Consuelo and Thomas Ludlam Rick Bogusch Jamie and Paul Colapinto Patricia Lutkins The Bompey Family Joseph Taranto Gabrielle Vaughan Crumbling Jill and Richard Collins Michael Macco and Christina Bottego Kathleen and William Collins Lynn Smiarowski Drs. Renier and Tricia Brentjens Rena and Barry Wiseman Hilary and Eric Woodward Donald Currie and The Malcolm Gibbs Foundation Bernard Bushell Daniel Gladstone Ann M. Mallouk Meagan and Thomas Zegarelli Kitty Charde Donna and Vincent Daley Adriana Martinez and Lori and Alexandre Chemla Eric and Michelle Zhai Michael Daly Matthew Werstein Adam Lewis and Thomas K. Chu John and Beatrice D’Amico Mae and Tom Mauri Kathy and Vince Ciriello Cecilia Buzio De Torres Margaret and Anthony McDonald Toni-Lea and Tim Corwin Kathleen Devore Ann Marie and James McHale Gail and Jefferson Cosseboom PECONIC L AND TRUST Ruth and Freddie Diaz Tabitha and Bian McQuade Emily and Erich Cramer Agricultural Center Ken Dolney Lynn McWhood at Charnews Farm Eddy Creces and Janny Hendrikse Elizabeth Downs Mary Anne Messina Lili Dalton Thomas and Claire Drennan Alice and Peter Mignerey Alison Delaney and Aaron Bokros Supporters of the Agricultural Eleanor Dunkelman William and Patricia Milford Robin’s Kitchen, Robyn Diederiks Center at Charnews Farm in E & P Cliffside Holdings Leueen and Gordon Miller Karin C. Driscoll Southold: Nancy and Peter Eichacker Jaci Miller Osdoby and Robert Duff and Kevin and Mary Ellen Erdman Steven Osdoby Patricia Donovan-Duff Jeannie and Frank Calderale Sandra Erickson, Ronald Erickson Elizabeth and Justin Mirro Steven Eckler Cheryl Horsfall and Danielle Noak Mary and Timothy Moylan Mark Ellenbogen and Jane Kosovsky Betty and John Fanneron Timothy Mueller Molly Sutphen Marianne Kristoff Drs. Zafar and Kehm Fatimi Ottiley Mullady Joy and Dan Flynn Susan and John Lombardi The Currin Feinstein Family Ellen Neff William Gardner Alfonso and Raquel Martinez-Fonts Ann ffolliott Peninah and Harold Neimark Melissa Germano, New York Peace Catherine and Lee Sewell Jan Flaherty James Nenopoulos of Mind Acupuncture Claire Spiezio Dorothea Fleisher Joyce and Stuart Newman Giancarlo Family Joshua Steinberg and Ayumi Hata Amy Folk Vera and Kenneth Nieuwenhuis Melinda Hackett Laurence Sutter and Mary Lou Folts John Oldenburg and Lara Wooten John Halsey and Janis Ebli-Halsey Betty Satterwhite Ignatia and Fortunato Foti Deborah Ostrosky Nicholas Herman Nancy Triska John French Lisa and Thomas Owens Jean Lindgren and Tony Hitchcock Albert and Lori Gabberty Louis and Louise Paolillo Carol Holley Supporters of the historic Annette Golden Perri and Richard Parlini Anthony Iacovone Case House restoration: Jean Graham Otis and Nancy Pearsall Louise Kefelian James Grathwohl Patrick Perrella Dorothy Grella Erna and Kenneth Peterson Kimberly and John Keiserman Robert and Carol Abrahams Catherine Harper Susan Petrie-Badertscher Kathy and Brian Kennedy Randy Zant and Gary Ackerman Lucie Harris Jose Miguez and Rosanna Piazza Emily and Sean King Jerome Adler and Beth Lebowitz Gerard and Cecelia Hauser Susan and John Pitman Liza and John Larkin Bernadette and George Aldcroft Christine and Robert Hempel Ann Plyler and Roseann Margiotta Anne Lockwood The Scully Peretsman Foundation, John and Sally Henry Clifford Polacek Susan and John Lombardi Jessica Alfonsi Kathleen and Dennis Hickey John Pontisakos Philip Lore and Erin Winters Andrew Stype Reality, Inc Lynn Hildenbrand Mary and Robert Ponzo Nicholas Mattia Melissa Andruski George and Linda Hossenlopp Jeannette and Peter Prostowich Frank and Monika Apadula Jill Glover and William McAllister Walter and Joanne Hulse David Pugh and Tina Silvestri Laurajean Aupperle Bridget and Juan Micieli-Martinez Roberta Jaklevic Anne and Jeff Pundyk AW Alice and Peter Mignerey Susan Johnson Paul Raso Cyrus and Josephine Bacchi Darren and Lori Mikula Dawn and Marc Johnston Robert and Barbara Rath Muffie and Jim Baker Craig Muir and Katina and Dennis Karagounis Jim and Cheryl Reeve Denise and James Balzaretti Miranda Brown-Muir Karen Karp and Christiaan Batten Marilyn and David Rivkin John and Susan Barnes Shamma Murphy Russ Karsten Patsy Rogers Suzanna Barucco Michelle Napoli Helen and Robert Keith Maria and Liberio Romano Kathleen Kmet Becker Vera and Kenneth Nieuwenhuis Kathleen and Mortimer Kelly Marcelle and Marc Rothenberg Corinne Case Bednoski Kathy and Peter Nowicki Thomas Kelly and Catherine Russ Glenna Ryan Iris and Frank E. Begora Jr. Melissa and Steven Olson David and Pamela Kenney Judith Saner Theo Osborne Drianne Benner and Kevin Perry 18 | www.PeconicLandTrust.org Holly Sanford PECONIC L AND TRUST The Horticultural Alliance Supporter William Saurer Kevin Kotler Claire and Anthony Abenante Bridge Gardens Idoline Scheerer Kim and Greg Lippmann Susan Barbieri Jen and Tom Schlecht Supporters of Bridge Gardens: Amy Nickin and Arthur Beckenstein and Judith and Otto Schmid Eric Eyken-Sluyters John O’Rourke
Rosemary Schneider Partner Barbara Phillips Gabe and Jerilyn Caprio Barbara Schnitzler and Rick Bogusch Margaret and Peter Sullivan Cheryl Carter William Finkelstein Barbara Braun - Catherine and Bradford Tepper Ramona Albert and Cynthia and Donald Scholl The Neuwirth Foundation Jeffrey Glick and Greg Wiseman Adrian Devenyi Mr. and Mrs. John B. Sepenoski, Jr. Susan Edwards and Ian Ziskin Rosemarie and Joseph DiLorenzo Harriet Sharkey-Ingoglia Anne and John Hall Sustainer Kathryn Fee Elizabeth and William Smith James Kilpatric and Harry Neyens Anne and Bruce Babcock Judy Lynne Hester Mark Solo Bettina Benson Marie Kennedy Southold Chapter NSDAR Benefactor Robert Chancelor and Hilka Klinkenberg and Patricia Spicer Carol Mulvihill Ahlers and Oscar Mandes Bernard Braverman Cora Stoll Ronald Ahlers Harriet and Alan Dresher Gary Moscato and Nikki Agnelli Walter J. Strohmeyer Jr. The Bridgehampton Association RaineyDay and John Erwin Mary Mulvihill Barbara and Raymond Terry Laura Donnelly Robert Fleischer and Michael and Joanne Pateman Sherry and Ted Thirlby George A. Hambrecht and Susan Raanan Elaine Peterson and Richard Kahn Gail Tiska-Flurry and Steve Flurry Andrea H. Fahnestock Anna Lou Fletcher Jennifer and James Pike Alice and George Todd MD Jonathan Hoefler and Joanne and Thomas Gouge Patricia Roche AllisonTupper Carleen Borsella Barbara and Peter Himler Judith Saner Constance Tupper Christine Killorin and Charles Savage Martha and Stephen Ulman Friend John Nussbaumer Mark Schwarz Eileen VanGelder Dr. Paula J. Angelone and Francine Lynch Wendy Sclight and Gerald Monroe Gus and Anthippe Vasilakis Jerry Rosengarten Christopher Pola Mary K. Shaughnessy Antonia Von Zuben Jenice and Rick Delano Jacqueline and Vincent Scerbinski Martin Shnay Andrew Walsh Harriet Edwards Barbara Slifka Elaine Shocas, in memory of Caroline and Richard Yates Laura Flug Susan Kennedy Zeller Maria Shocas Arms Judith and Joseph Zalner Nancy Gilbert and Richard Wines Heidi Swindells Eric and Michelle Zhai Amy and Doug Halsey Maria and Thomas Ulrich Alicia Whitaker Michael and Abby Wolk
Patron Supporter Through Farms & Fields Ruth and Leonard Benowich Bianchi-Davis Greenhouses, Inc John and Candice Frawley Bohemia Garden Center A Virtual Celebration of our Local Bounty Peter J. and Linda Stabler Talty Richard Brockman, MD and Mirra Bank Friend Nora Catlin and Carol Mulvihill Ahlers and Christopher McHugh hank you to all who joined us and raised a glass Ronald Ahlers Terry and Megan Elkins to celebrate farmland conservation and the Dr. Paula J. Angelone and David Fleischer and T Jerry Rosengarten Jessica Mitchell bounty it provides. We send also heartfelt thanks to Bob Baldwin and Margaret Sieck Nancy Goell our committee for your enthusiasm and dedication, Ann and Jim Barry John v.H. Halsey Marcia Bystryn Hampton Coffee Company/ Carol Mulvihill Ahlers (Chair), Michael Daly, Hatsy Harriet and Alan Dresher Jason Belkin Dresher, Nancy Goell, Patty Orben, Judy Saner and Michael Daly Su Hilty Nancy Gilbert and Richard Wines to our video editor Geoffrey Wells, you made the Lucy Howard Dinni Gordon Carol and Tom Isles stories come to life. Missed our program? You can DeDe Gotthelf and Terry Moan Ed Krug and John Haubrich watch online at ww.PeconicLandTrust.org/TFF2020 GreenLogic LLC Lynn McMahon and Louise Guarneri and Garry Munson Stephen Gelfman Mary and Tom Morgan And to our sponsors, we appreciate your Madelaine Haberman and Judith and Stephen Ness Michael Sprung Connie and John Norbeck support this year . . . and hope to be able to Amy and Doug Halsey Nugent & Potter, Inc./ celebrate with all in person in 2021: Noel and Deborah Hare Constance Essay Lisa Clare Kombrink, Esq. and Jack and Patty Orben Jesse Camacho Karen and Gregg Rivara Land Steward James MacGregor and Meryl Rosofsky Amanda and Don Mullen Claire Montgomery Anthony and Rosa Smith Joe Mc Kay The Stoll Family Nawrocki Smith LLC Ellen and Tom Williams Benefactor Jennifer and Jim Pike Julie and Joey Zaykowski Judith Saner Stuart and Carol Zuckerman Ann Sandford Linda S. Sanford Eric Wechsler and Phil Kovacevich WÖlffer Estate Vineyards Lloyd Zuckerberg and Charlotte Triefus Bridge Abstract
www.PeconicLandTrust.org | 19 P ECONIC NONPROFIT ORG L AND T R UST U.S. POSTAGE PAID SOUTHAMPTON, NY PERMIT NO. 20 296 Hampton Road Southampton, New York 11968 631.283.3195 www.PeconicLandTrust.org Follow us: You Tube Printed on Recycled Paper
Mission Statement The Peconic Land Trust conserves Long Island’s working farms, natural lands, and heritage for our communities now and in the future.
Board of Directors (2020-2021) Edward Krug, Chair Marcia Bystryn, Vice Chair Help Us Spread the Word John v.H. Halsey, President Nancy Gilbert, Treasurer While many believe that the funds raised by the 2% John E. Larkin, Assistant Treasurer real estate transfer tax go to Peconic Land Trust for its Nora J. Catlin, Secretary conservation programs, this is incorrect! Carol M. Ahlers Harriet H. Dresher The Peconic Land Trust raises the vast majority of its funds Ann G. ffolliott through private donations. Thomas A. Isles James T. MacGregor The 2% real estate transfer tax paid by buyers goes directly John S. Norbeck to the Town in which the property purchased is located. Jennifer B. Pike Thomas B. Williams, Board Chair Emeritus Thank you for your help! Staff John v.H. Halsey, President Amanda Abraham, Director of Development Janine Beck, Manager of Accounting Richard Bogusch, Director, Bridge Gardens Donna Bova, Senior Manager of Donor Information James Brako-McComb, Planning Assistant Janet Schutt, Senior Manager of Donor Services Timothy J. Caufield, Senior Advisor Matt Swain, Director of Stewardship Melanie Cirillo, Director of Conservation Planning Julie Wesnofske, Project Manager Alison Delaney, Development Officer Jacqueline Wilson, Stewardship Program Coordinator Rashawn Gant, Bridge Gardens Assistant Julie Zaykowski, Vice President Pam Greene, Senior Vice President Layton Guenther, Director, Quail Hill Farm Josh Halsey, Program Coordinator Counsel Leonard Benowich, Esq. Robin L. Harris, Office Manager William T. Hutton, Esq. Dan Heston, Director of Agricultural Programs Susan Tuths, Esq. Kathleen Kennedy, Senior Manager of Outreach Ellen Fred, Esq. Julia King, Marketing and Communications Assistant Misti Schmidt, Esq. Stephanie Konarski, Development Specialist Jessie Marcus, Stewardship Manager Lori Mikula, Director of Finance Newsletter Brendan McMullan, Farm Manager, Quail Hill Farm Yvette DeBow Salsedo, Editor Bridget Micieli-Martinez, Events & Design Manager Bridget Micieli-Martinez, Design Brendan Minogue, Land Steward Kathleen Kennedy, Associate Editor Kimberly Quarty, Senior Project Manager Contributors: Amanda Abraham, Layton Guenther, Yvette DeBow Salsedo, Vice President Dan Heston, Janet Schutt Holly Sanford, Project Manager Searles Graphics, Printing
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