Suffolk County Legislature recognizes Shinnecock Bay Hope Spot with formal Proclamation on March 10, 2026

We were so honored to be recognized by the Suffolk County Legislature last week during its meeting on March 10, 2026. Legislator Ann Welker presented us with an official Proclamation that celebrates the Shinnecock Bay Hope Spot.

The Proclamation recognizes our partners who helped make it a reality, including the Shinnecock Nation, Mission Blue, and The Explorers Club.

The Proclamation also highlights the work of Stony Brook University’s Shinnecock Bay Restoration Program and the positive impact it has had on the bay’s ecology and economy, which helped lead to the designation.

On hand to accept the Proclamation with short remarks were Dr. Ellen Pikitch, Dr. Chris Gobler, and Margeurite Smith, along with Sunshine Gumbs, Michelle Johnson, Rainbow Hill, and members of Dr Pikitch’s Institute for Ocean Conservation Science.

Many thanks to the Suffolk County Legislature and especially Legislator Welker!