Ridgewood Reservoir Preservation & Forum

We facilitate between government and non-profit groups to achieve conservation and research objectives. For example, the abandoned Ridgewood Reservoir in Queens and Kings Counties, NY, has developed over the years into a natural habitat containing woodlands, wetlands, open water, and threatened wildlife species and is highly valued as a passive recreation area by the community.

Unfortunately, this area was not protected in any way; therefore, we represented the NY State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYDEC) to advocate for the site’s preservation. First, we used unique features of the state’s Wetland Delineation Manual to delineate the boundaries. Then, we organized and led a public meeting and petitioned the DEC to include these areas for protection under the state’s Freshwater Wetlands Program as wetlands of unusual local importance.

Lastly, we worked with NYC’s Department of Parks and Recreation representatives, the property owners, and NYC H2O to design and gain City and State approvals for an innovative program. This program also proposed reducing invasive species and restoring habitat for the state-threatened Pied-billed Grebe (Podilymbus podiceps).

Location

Queens & Kings Counties, NY

Services Provided

Scientific Research

Wetland Delineations and Functional Analyses

Public Outreach & Education

Environmental Assessment & Site Selection

Conservation Planning

Interagency Coordination

Rare, Threatened & Endangered Species Surveys

Wetland Restoration

Invasive Species Control

Scientific Studies