In 1998, HHPC launched a pollution-control plan for New York's Hempstead Harbor. 13 years later, its northern segment reopened to shellfishing after being closed for more than 40 years

The restoration of northern Hempstead Harbor in Nassau County, New York, demonstrates how long-term cooperation and pollution-control measures can improve water quality. After shellfish harvesting was restricted in 1966 because of water quality concerns, elevated fecal coliform levels contributed to the harbor being placed on the state’s 1998 impaired waters list. The Hempstead Harbor Protection Committee, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, Nassau County, municipalities, and community partners coordinated efforts addressing stormwater, boater waste, wastewater, and other pollution sources. Following years of monitoring and improvement, DEC reopened shellfish harvesting areas in June 2011 after more than 40 years.