New Coordinator For Peconic Estuary Protection Committee

MONTAUK, NY — The Peconic Estuary Protection Committee has welcomed a new addition onboard as Patricia Aitken takes on the role of coordinator.

Aitken will work with the municipal members and affiliated agencies of the Committee to restore and improve water quality in the estuary, a release said.

The Committee coordinates efforts between local towns, the county and the state through information sharing, coordination of regulatory activities, conducting outreach and education, and cooperating on infrastructure programs, the release added.

Aitken previously served as the executive director of Friends of the Bay in Oyster Bay, where her efforts to preserve, protect and restore water quality in the Oyster Bay/Cold Spring Harbor watershed led to an award from the Environmental Protection Agency for the organization’s water quality monitoring program.

In addition, Aitken has been honored by the Nassau County Legislature and the New York State Legislature for her efforts to protect the marine environment.

“I look forward to working with the partner municipalities and organizations in the Estuary to protect and improve water quality in the Peconic Estuary. It is a place of great natural beauty, and is an important resource for all the residents of Long Island," Aitken said.

“I know I speak for all the committee members when I say that we are excited to bring Ms. Aitken on as our new coordinator. Her expertise and professionalism will certainly put us in the right direction and provide the guidance we need to advance our common goals of protecting and preserving the Peconic Estuary,” said Veronica King, Peconic Estuary Protection Committee co-chair.

And, added Riverhead Town Councilwoman Jodi Giglio: “The protection of the Peconic Estuary is vital to preserving Riverhead's sustainable economy as well as an important part of our heritage. Ms. Aitken has the right set of skills to empower our community and move forward our important projects that protect, manage and restore the Peconic Estuary according to local values and needs. Water quality is the most important priority we have.”

Patch file photo.