Suffolk County is making a significant investment to reconstruct the dam at Southaven County Park and the subsequent spillway on the Carmans River.
Construction work began on March 1st, 2024, and is expected to be completed sometime in the middle of summer.
“Reconstruction aids in the safety and ecological enhancement of the Carmans River by granting fish access to the Yaphank Lakes and mitigating the impact of floods on the surrounding area. Native fish species will now have access to more habitat,” said Romaine.
This project involves the rehabilitation of the existing dam and spillway with the addition of a fish passage.
The fish passage is the last link joining the Carmans River, Southaven Park, and the Yaphank Upper/Lower Lakes to naturally enhance the populations of various species of fish.
The contractor is Chesterfield Associates with inspection services provided by Nelson & Pope.
The exact construction contract cost is approximately $900,500.