EPA and Shinnecock Nation Work Together to Rid Two Beaches of Marine Debris
EPA Facilitates Removal of Abandoned Boat and Large Buoy from Shinnecock Nation Beaches
NEW YORK - On Long Island, New York, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Shinnecock Indian Nation completed the successful removal of an abandoned boat from Westwoods Beach and a large navigational buoy from a beach near the Shinnecock Indian Cemetery. This multi-agency action involved coordination between Shinnecock Nation, U.S. Coast Guard, and EPA, and underscores a strong, ongoing partnership to protect beaches, natural resources, and community safety.
“EPA is proud to support the Shinnecock Nation in safeguarding coastal lands and waters from hazards,” said Regional Administrator Michael Martucci. “Marine debris like this can pose public safety risks, damage sensitive habitats, and release pollutants. By working in close coordination with the Nation, we ensured both the boat and the buoy were removed responsibly to help restore and protect tribal lands.”
“Our shorelines are a very special place for us, there we find peace, joy, and connection,” said Shavonne F. Smith, Environmental Director of the Shinnecock Environmental Department. “For multiple years and through different agencies, staff and leadership tried to have the boat removed to no avail. We greatly appreciate the support and effort of the EPA Region 2 staff to successfully assist us with this tremendous task. It exemplifies the strong partnership we have developed with Region 2 staff over the years. Clean waterways and safe beaches benefit everyone.”
In 2025, the Shinnecock Nation identified a 27-foot-long abandoned vessel stranded on Westwoods Beach. EPA coordinated removal to prevent potential environmental harm and reduce public safety risks. By May 2026, the vessel was safely extracted and disposed of in accordance with applicable environmental and safety standards. EPA also worked with the U.S. Coast Guard to remove a large, grounded buoy, weighing 1,200 pounds, from another coastal beach on Shinnecock Nation land. The buoy had washed up on land over five years ago.
EPA and the Shinnecock Nation regularly coordinate on environmental protection priorities, including coastal resilience, waste management, and emergency response planning. The marine debris removal reflects a shared commitment to rapid, practical solutions that protect human health and the environment.
Learn more about EPA’s work with Tribal Nations by visiting the program page.
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