Hooray for the Bluebelt
DEP Hosts Appreciation Day for Adopt-A-Bluebelt Organizations and Volunteers

Saturday, May 20, 2006 11:30 am

Bluebelt Field Office
182 Joline Avenue
Staten Island, NY

DEP is hosting its second annual Bluebelt appreciation day for all volunteers participating in the Staten Island Adopt-a-Bluebelt Program.  In addition to ceremonial thanks, volunteers will be given personal protection equipment, training classes to demonstrate proper and safe use of garden equipment and safety manuals.  DEP will also present wood chips, compost and plants and shrubs to the Bluebelt volunteers.   

The Adopt-a-Bluebelt program plays a vital role in support of DEP’s Bluebelt storm water management program, which uses the Island’s natural areas to control storm water discharges. This includes streams, ponds and wetlands and avoids the need to construct expensive City storm sewers.

The Adopt-a-Bluebelt Program offers groups, companies and individuals an opportunity to act as sponsors and caretakers of Bluebelt locations.  Volunteers spend many hours performing tasks such as removing debris, planting trees and shrubs, mowing and spreading wood chips.  They also act as liaison to DEP to inform the Bluebelt staff of any problems or conditions that may be harmful to the Program.

Staten Island’ volunteers include, in addition to individual volunteers, groups such as the Ancient Order of Hibernians, Boy Scouts of America, Coalition for the South Beach Pond Park Preserve, Compassionate Friends of Staten Island, Friends of Jacks Pond, Friends of Porzios Pond, Friends of Wood Duck Pond, Pleasant Plains/ Princess Bay/Richmond Valley Civic Association, South Shore Kiwanis Club Club, South Shore Lions Club, South Shore Rotary Club, Staten Island Taxpayers Association, inc., St. Clares Parochial School, The Great Kills Masonic Lodge and the Luke M. Parlatore Foundation.  .

DEP is grateful for the strong commitment and interest that Staten Islanders have exhibited in support of this project.  This event is one way the DEP can give a round of applause to our Adopt-a-Bluebelt partners.

Refreshments will be served.