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Migratory fish blocked by a dam and culvert in Patchogue could get a new route to their spawning grounds under a restoration project awarded state funding.
Seatuck Environmental Association has received nearly $2 million in grants for that work and a second project to improve tidal flow and aquatic passage around Mattituck Inlet, the conservation organization announced.
Both projects will address structures that restrict the movement of fish and other aquatic wildlife between connected waterways.
The funding comes through the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s Water Quality Improvement Project grant program.
A new route in Patchogue
The Patchogue Lake Fish Passage Project will create a route around an existing dam and culvert that block migratory fish in Patchogue River.
Seatuck plans to install a pool-and-weir fishway, allowing fish to bypass the barriers and reach spawning habitat in Patchogue and Canaan lakes.
The organization credited Suffolk County, Patchogue Village and other project partners for their cooperation, along with Suffolk County Legislator Dominick Thorne for his support.
Improving flow in Mattituck
At Mattituck Inlet, Seatuck plans to replace two undersized culverts with larger concrete box culverts.
The existing structures restrict tidal flow and the movement of aquatic organisms into surrounding wetlands, according to Seatuck. The replacements are intended to improve both water flow and access to those habitats.
The organization is working with Southold Town and the Suffolk County Department of Public Works on the project.
Timelines still to come
Both projects will take place over multiple years, with separate schedules. Start dates will be announced once implementation plans are finalized.
Dams and undersized culverts can cut off access to spawning, feeding and nursery habitat, according to Seatuck.
“Restoring and maintaining connections between aquatic habitats is critical to supporting healthy ecosystems and the wildlife that depend on them,” said Kris Mielenhausen, Seatuck’s conservation director.
Top: Matt Broderick of Medford shows off a yellow pirch he caught ice fishing on Patchogue Lake in February. (Credit: GLI/Nick Esposito)
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