Eastern Long Island Chapter thoroughly enjoyed hosting chapters from Maine to Georgia for the 2016 East Coast Chapter conference. Every chapter has their own unique set of campaigns and programs, so we came together to share tactics to host effective campaigns, and to motivate citizen scientists to get involved to protect our ocean and beaches.
It was inspiring and greatly motivating to meet all of the dedicated members of the East Coast Surfrider Foundation Chapters. The conference was held at Stony Brook in Southampton, and included members and volunteers from over 10 chapters.
Andy, Chair of the Eastern LI Chapter welcoming all East Coast Chapters to the conference.
We discussed ongoing campaigns and programs from reducing plastic usage and discouraging seismic testing in the Atlantic, to ocean friendly gardens and water quality.
East Coast Chapters touring the Downtown Montauk Stabilization Project by the Army Corps of Engineers.
After two days of productive discussion, idea-sharing, and of course, afternoon surf breaks, we ended the conference with a tour of Downtown Montauk. Many people have heard about the "Stabilization" Project in Montauk, so we invited all of the east coast chapter members to see the project outcome with their own eyes. Many were silent, many were outraged. The time to act is right now.
On behalf of the Surfrider Foundation Eastern Long Island Chapter, we are humbled and inspired by all of the efforts made by the East Coast Chapters. We strive to let you all know that you can make an impact. Keep up the good work East Coast Chapters.
Long Live Surfrider Foundation!