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Every year, the marine waters around Long Island experience a menhaden (also known as bunker) fish kill.  This happens naturally when predator fish (such as bluefish) chase the menhaden into shallow water.  Here the menhaden can use up the dissolved oxygen in the water and die of asphyxiation.  Additionally, the menhaden also get trapped by the receding tide and perish.  Some years the fish kills are larger, but this tends to coincide with a larger population of menhaden in general.  Typically the annual fish kill occurs in late summer, but sometimes they occur earlier in the year as well.

This year (2022), we have also heard about dead crabs. These were likely killed by the heat and low dissolved oxygen (which are linked and made worse by nitrogen pollution and climate change). Efforts have been made to reduce nitrogen pollution, but we still need your help! Scroll down to learn what you can do.

2021 UPDATE

In April 2021, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation received and responded to an increased number of reports of Atlantic menhaden (Brevoortia tyrannus) dead or swimming irregularly throughout New York's marine waters, including around Long Island.   To report observations of a fish kill, please send detailed location information and photos to fishkillmarine@dec.ny.gov. Reports can also be made by calling 631-444-0714 for marine waters.

For more information on fish kills, visit: 

https://www.dec.ny.gov/animals/117322.html

 

INFORMATION ON WHAT YOU CAN DO:

Fertilizers: Fertilizers contain nitrates that, in abundance, can lead to water quality degradation and fish kills. 

  • Avoid the unnecessary use of fertilizers
  • Do not apply before a heavy rainfall when it is more likely they will be carried into the bay by runoff

Pesticides: Many household products made to exterminate pests are also toxic to humans, animals, aquatic organisms and plants.  Use alternatives whenever possible.  If you do use a pesticide, follow the label directions carefully.    

Household Hazardous Products: Many common household products (paint thinners, moth balls, drain and oven cleaners, unused and expired medications to name a few) contain toxic ingredients.  When improperly used or discarded, these products are a threat to public health and the environment.  Do not discard with the regular household trash.  Use natural and less toxic alternatives whenever possible. 

Call 311 for  information regarding household hazardous waste Stop Throwing Out hazardous Pollutants (STOP) collection. 

North Hempstead Link to the STOP program

Litter: Trash that makes its way into the environment can have serious impacts on the health of wildlife and humans.  To avoid this:

  • Discard items, including cigarette butts and fast food containers, in trash receptacles (make sure they will not be blown away). 
  • Never throw trash onto streets or down storm drains. 
  • Recycle as much as possible. 
  • Join a beach clean-up!  E-mail:  mbpcExec@gmail.com to volunteer.

Pet Waste: Animal wastes contain bacteria and viruses that can contaminate shellfish beds and cause the closing of beaches.    Pet owners should pick up after pets and dispose of wastes in the garbage or toilet. 

Motor Oil: Used motor oil contains toxic chemicals that are harmful to humans, animals, and fish.  Do not dump used motor oil down storm drains or on the ground.  Recycle all used motor oil by taking it to a local public or private recycling center.

Car Washing: Wash your car only when necessary.  Consider using a commercial car wash that recycles its wash water. 

Septic Systems: An improperly working septic system can contaminate ground water and create public health problems.  Avoid adding unnecessary grease, household hazardous products, and solids to your septic system.  Pump out your tank every 3 to 5 years depending on its use.  Coming soon:  CESSPOOL website.

Boat Discharges: Dumping boat sewage overboard introduces bacteria and viruses into the water and it is also illegal:  Manhasset Bay and the neighboring Long Island Sound are designated No Discharge Zones.  Boaters should always use marine sanitation devices and pump-out facilities.  For free pump outs call the Town of North Hempstead Dock @ 1-516-767-4622 or the Town Pump-Out Boat on VHF Channel 9.

 

  
 

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Telephone 516-869-7983
 15 Vanderventer Avenue, Port Washington, NY  11050

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