Riverhead Town seeks volunteers for new environmental advisory committee

Riverhead Town is seeking volunteers to serve on a new committee focusing on environmental issues.

The town board authorized the creation of the new open space and environmental advisory committee at its Nov. 7 meeting.

The committee’s purpose is to advise the town board “on matters affecting the preservation, development and use of the natural and man-made features and conditions of the town,” according to the resolution adopted by the board.  The new committee will replace the existing open space and park preserve committee.

“This 12-member committee will exchange ideas and implement strategies to form a long-term plan to create a more sustainable and greener community,” Supervisor Laura Jens-Smith said in a press release.

It will focus on conservation, restoration and our economy, Jens-Smith said.

“We will access local, state and federal grants to improve our water quality and precious habitats,” the supervisor said.

“Our emphasis will be to find economically beneficial solutions to reduce energy consumption and minimize waste — with a focus on use of disposable plastics. By partnering with local businesses and community leaders we hope to improve the economic and environmental well-being of our town now and into the future,” Jens-Smith said in a statement.

Councilwoman Catherine Kent will be the town board liaison to the new committee, the supervisor said.

“It is critical that we work together to preserve open space and protect our fragile environment. I look forward to working with this committee as we find workable solutions to grow Riverhead in an environmentally responsible way,” Kent said.

Riverhead residents age 18 and older, knowledgeable in the subject, are invited to apply, according to the press release.

Interested applicants should submit cover letters and resumes by close of business on Dec. 14 to townclerk@townofriverheadny.gov.

For further information, call the Supervisor’s Office at (631) 727-3200 ext. 654.