Romaine Adds to His Open Space Legacy

Another 6.3 acres of environmentally sensitive land will be protected from development as Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine continues his longstanding commitment to preserving open space and protecting the county's drinking water supply.

The county has completed the $4.4 million purchase of wooded property in Wading River, south of Route 25A and west of Wading River Manor Road in the Town of Riverhead. The land was acquired through Suffolk County's Drinking Water Protection Program and will remain permanently preserved for environmental protection and passive recreation.

“This acquisition is another important step in Suffolk County’s ongoing commitment to preserving environmentally sensitive lands and protecting our drinking water resources,” Romaine said. “By preserving this wooded property, we are protecting valuable open space and helping to safeguard our groundwater resources for future generations.”

The property lies within a designated Special Groundwater Protection Area, where preserving undeveloped land is particularly important to maintaining the quality of the aquifer that supplies Long Island's drinking water.

“Preserving open space protects wildlife habitats while giving the public places to enjoy nature rather than seeing the land lost to development,” said Steve Brown, a member of Brookhaven Town’s Open Space Committee. “The county and the town of have worked diligently as partners in preserving open space throughout the region.”

Environmental preservation has been a hallmark of Romaine's public career. As a Suffolk County legislator, he authored the county's first Clean Water Act and championed the preservation of thousands of acres across eastern Brookhaven and the East End.

During his 12 years as Brookhaven Town supervisor, he spearheaded landmark legislation protecting the Carmans River and supported numerous acquisitions of environmentally sensitive properties, including woodlands, wetlands and watershed lands. His work has also included protecting the Central Pine Barrens and advocating for improved wastewater treatment.

Since becoming county executive, Romaine has continued expanding preservation efforts, including the acquisition of Pine Barrens acreage and initiatives to protect groundwater and Suffolk's working waterfronts.

“This acquisition reinforces our commitment to protecting Suffolk County’s natural resources while preserving open space for the benefit of our residents,” Romaine said.

The Wading River purchase ensures the property will remain in its natural state rather than face residential or commercial development.