Town of Oyster Bay Supervisor Joseph Saladino and Councilman Steve Labriola today announced that the Town, in partnership with local boy scout Troops 601 (Massapequa) and 261(Farmingdale), recently planted 60 trees at Anchor Park in Massapequa to help support wildlife and improve water quality for residents. The Saladino administration was awarded these trees through a grant from the NYS Department of Environmental Conservation.

Supervisor Saladino stated, “These new trees will help stop pollutant-carrying storm water runoff from going directly into the Seaford Creek during severe storms. I thank the Boy Scouts and volunteers who joined us in planting these new trees in Anchor Park.”

Anchor Park is located adjacent to Seaford Creek, which is susceptible to storm water runoff during significant weather events. The new trees will help reduce the effects of potential flooding and serve as buffers against pollutants and sediments. Other benefits of the tree planting include providing a habitat of food and protection for birds and other animals, as well as providing shade, comfort, and improved aesthetics for park visitors. No existing trees will be damaged or removed as part of the new tree planting initiative.

“We are committed to enhancing the quality of life in our communities and that includes environmental initiatives such as this. Trees contribute to our environment by providing oxygen, improving air quality, climate amelioration, preserving soil, and supporting wildlife,” said Councilman Labriola. “We thank all the Scouts who volunteered their time to improving our community through this tree planting initiative.”

In the past 12 months, the Town has planted more than 200 trees at various Town facilities, including local Town parks and traffic islands throughout the Town’s south shore.