APRIL 27, 2006, FARMINGVILLE, NY. Joined by a contingent of environmentalists and civic leaders, including members of the Forge River Task Force, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Brian X. Foley and Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy announced the joint acquisition of the 37.6 acres of open space at the headwaters of the Forge River.

The Moriches property located on the eastern branch of the Forge River has been a focus of the town and county’s recent acquisition efforts as they seek to protect the distressed watershed of the Moriches Bay estuary. County Legislator Kate Browning and Brookhaven Councilwoman Carol Bissonette also had key roles in the purchase and both attended the news conference.

The preserved properties will be used for passive recreational activities such as hiking and bird watching. The land is comprised predominantly of Pitch Pine-Oak woodland habitat with open fields.

“I am keeping my promise to protect the Forge River watershed,” said Supervisor Foley. “Protecting river corridors is one of my administration’s central environmental priorities, and the Forge River watershed in particular needs special attention. By partnering with Suffolk County in open space purchases like this one, Brookhaven Town maximizes its power to preserve and protect its environmental resources.”