Longtime Preservation Advocate, Now Battling ALS, Honored

ORIENT POINT, NY — A man who has dedicated his life to public service is now facing one of his greatest challenges — and supporters came together recently to honor his years of dedication to preservation on the East End.

The Peconic Land Trust recently unveiled a plaque honoring East Marion resident Joseph Townsend Jr., a former member of the Trust’s board of directors, as well as former Greenport Mayor and Southold Town councilman.

The plaque was unveiled at the Edwards Farm at Orient Point, which has been preserved by the Trust with the "extraordinary assistance" of the community, Southold Town, and Townsend, who recently was diagnosed with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, the PLT said.

"It is a fitting honor for Joe, not just for his efforts to preserve the Edwards Farm but, for his preservation efforts townwide," said Southold Town Supervisor Scott Russell. "Joe was a leader early on in establishing the town’s preservation goals and helped craft and implement programs that we are all the beneficiaries of today. It's well-deserved."

The plaque was installed at the head of a trail that eventually will lead to a new nature observation platform honoring Townsend that will overlook Hallocks Bay and Orient Beach State Park, according to the PLT.

Gathering for the ceremony and joining Townsend were Peconic Land Trust President John v.H. Halsey and PLT Senior Advisor Tim Caufield.

To contribute, tax-deductible donations to the Townsend observation platform may be addressed to The Peconic Land Trust, attention: Townsend Observation Platform, P.O. Box 1776, Southampton, NY 11969.

For more information regarding the Edwards Farm, please visit the Trust’s website by clicking here.

Patch photos courtesy Peconic Land Trust.