At a recent Nassau Suffolk Water Commissioners’ Association (NSWCA) meeting, Stephen Terracciano, Office Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) program, 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.

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 left to right: Stephen Terracciano, Office Chief of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and NSWCA President Howard Abbondondelo of Albertson Water District.