Roslyn, NY - April 14, 2014 - At a recent meeting held by Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners' Association (NSWCA, which consists of water commissioners from 21 Long Island water districts, Office Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) program Stephen Terracciano spoke about the USGS’ mission and latest findings regarding Long Island’s water supply. The meeting was hosted by Roslyn Water District Commissioners Michael J. Kosinski, William Costigan, and Dr. Sanford E. Klein.
“Data indicates that urbanization of western Long Island has had a significant effect on the underlying water resources,” stated Mr. Terracciano. “Installation of sewers and storm drains, along with large scale pumpage, has caused significant declines in water levels. This has led to reduction in streamflow, loss of wetlands, saltwater intrusion, basement and subway flooding.”
Water resources are affected by many factors, both natural and man-made, including climate change, storms, population growth and land-use. On Long Island, the USGS collects hydrologic data through a network of stations that monitor wells, streams, lakes, estuaries and meteorological posts. This data is collected, organized and used to identify trends and influences on the water system including water supply, salt water intrusion, climate, population, drought and flood monitoring.
NSWCA President Howard Abbondondelo of Albertson Water District remarked on the importance of the USGS studies. “The data collected by the USGS is essential to the policy making that protects and manages our precious water resource. Introducing the USGS to the newest members of NSWCA and reaffirming the importance of the organization’s work is part of NSWCA’s ongoing educational program and initiatives.”
A national science-based organization, the U.S. Geological Survey has provided the public with impartial information on the health of our environment, ecosystems and natural resources, including water supply, for over 100 years. On Long Island, the organization is currently sustained by a shared funding program to which the NSWCA has supported and contributed $50,000.
Organized and chartered in 1981, the Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA) is comprised of water commissioners from 21 Nassau County and Suffolk County water districts. The NSWCA is dedicated to promoting environmental excellence and best practices as well as maintaining the highest standards of water quality and supply. It regularly sponsors educational meetings on topics that include the environment, security, economics, rules and regulations, and other related issues.
For further information, contact NSWCA President Howard Abbondondelo via phone, (516) 621-3610 or email, awd11577@optonline.net.
Agency Contact, or for information regarding your district’s water commissioners, contact Mr. Jamie Stanco with Progressive Marketing Group, Inc. via phone, (631) 756-7160 or email, jpstanco@pmgstrategic.com.
PHOTO CAPTION: Pictured from left to right at a recent Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA) meeting is Stephen Terracciano, Office Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) with NSWCA President Howard Abbondondelo of Albertson Water District.
