Record-breaking temperatures, harmful bacteria, and declining water quality are significantly impacting Long Island's bays, as revealed during the "State of the Bays" lecture on April 2 at Stony Brook Southampton. The findings, presented by Christopher Gobler, a distinguished professor at the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS), emphasized the concerning trends in groundwater and surface water across Long Island. Gobler highlighted that the sole-source aquifer, providing drinking water, is the main source of nitrogen and other contaminants flowing into coastal ecosystems.
The lecture showcased alarming data, notably a more than 60% increase in groundwater nitrogen levels since the late 20th century, leading to a 90% decline in crucial marine habitats like eelgrass and salt marshes, and similar drops in shellfish populations. The year 2024 was especially difficult for the region, with harmful algal blooms appearing in over two dozen lakes and ponds. Furthermore, 36 individual "dead zones," with oxygen levels below state standards, were recorded, marking the highest number ever documented.
"2024 was the warmest year ever recorded on Earth, with ocean temperatures also reaching all-time highs," Gobler stated, highlighting the clear evidence of climate change effects. A record-setting rainfall event in August 2024 further demonstrated extreme weather patterns, resulting in damaged dams and closure of shellfish beds across Long Island. High levels of Vibrio vulnificus, or "flesh-eating bacteria," were detected in local waters, exacerbated by the region's wastewater contamination.
Despite these challenges, Gobler emphasized the development of solutions at Stony Brook. "We’ve become a hub for innovative approaches to mitigate water quality issues and address climate change impacts," he mentioned. Suffolk County Legislator Ann Welker emphasized the importance of work at Stony Brook Southampton for the future of water quality in the county.
Welker expressed encouragement by the passing of Proposition 2 by Suffolk County residents in November 2024. This initiative involves a slight sales tax increase to generate a wastewater fund for replacing outdated septic tanks and expanding wastewater treatment plants, aiming to reduce nitrogen pollution in the county. The New York State Center for Clean Water Technology at Stony Brook University leads research on cost-effective technologies to curtail nitrogen and contaminant runoff.
Gobler Lab is developing "in-the-water" solutions, such as using seaweeds and bivalves, which have proven effective in reducing nitrogen loads, controlling algal blooms, and combating ocean acidification. Shellfish restoration efforts have also contributed to some estuaries' ecosystem recovery, including Shinnecock Bay. "Implementation of these technologies, combined with ‘in-the-water’ solutions, will be essential if we want to restore water quality and fisheries," Gobler stated, noting Suffolk County's unique policy to allocate funds for regional wastewater treatment upgrades.
Margot Eckstein, a laboratory technician in the Gobler Lab, expressed optimism, saying, "The data shows we’re at a critical point, but the methods being developed here give me hope that we can make a difference in our community."
The annual lecture at Stony Brook Southampton included a student poster display showcasing ongoing research, providing both a warning and hope for students concerned about Long Island's waterways.
"We are grateful for the support and expertise of Christopher Gobler and the Gobler Lab," Welker added.