About Us
The Mecox Bay Conserancy
The Mecox Bay Conservancy (MBC) is a new nonprofit organization committed to restoring and protecting the water quality of Mecox Bay and its tributaries. By fostering collaboration among residents, stakeholders, and government entities, we work towards preserving this valuable natural resource for future generations.
The Mecox Bay Conservancy was established in November of 2023 in response to the declining water quality of Mecox Bay, primarily due to increased nitrogen and bacterial pollution over the years. Recognizing the need for community-driven action, MBC was created to advocate for practical solutions and promote sustainable practices to protect our bay.
MBC actively reviews scientific data related to water quality and works with local governments to address emerging issues. MBC works to protect aquatic and shoreline biodiversity and recreational opportunities. MBC is dedicated to improving water quality through securing grants for homeowners to convert to nitrogen reducing residential sanitary systems. MBC works with homeowners and landscapers on best lawncare practices to reduce pesticides and nitrogen pollution from entering the bay. MBC seeks to develop and secure grants for nature-based interventions to mitigate and remediate bay impacts including storm water drainage systems, PRBs and other filtration systems. MBC alerts residents regarding issues effecting public health and quality of life.
Jay Schneiderman - Director
Jay Schneiderman holds a BA degree in chemistry from Ithaca College and a MA in science education from SUNY and an Administrative Degree from Long Island University. Jay worked for 31 years in government including serving as East Hampton Town Supervisor, Southampton Town Supervisor and Suffolk County Legislator. Jay also chaired the East End Supervisor's and Mayors Association for 10 years.
Jay helped established the Mecox Bay Conservancy with Andrew Zaro, who served as the first board president. Jay loves analyzing and developing solutions to complex problems such as reversing the damage done to the ecosystem of Mecox Bay.
Dr. Christopher Gobler - Science Advisor
Dr. Christopher Gobler is a Professor within the School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SoMAS) at Stony Brook University. He received his M.S. and Ph.D. from Stony Brook University in the 1990s. Dr. Gobler began his academic career at Long Island University (LIU) in 1999. In 2005, he joined Stony Brook University as the Director of Academic Programs for SoMAS on the Stony Brook – Southampton campus. In 2014, he was appointed as the Associate Dean of Research at SoMAS. Dr. Gobler also servs as Director for the Center for Clean Water Technology (CCWT).
During the past twenty years, Dr. Gobler's research has identified the key role excessive nitrogen loading has played in the degradation of Long Island’s fisheries and water quality.
Tom Varley - Watershed Manager
Tom Varley spent 40 years managing the operations and maintenance of wastewater treatment plants throughout the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions. As a certified Grade 4 Wastewater Operator in NY, NJ & CT, Through his experience, Tom has developed a comprehensive understanding of nitrogen removal in wastewater.
In his role as Watershed Manager, Mr. Varley is tasked with accelerating the upgrade of the septic systems in the watershed with the most environmentally protective systems possible. He is available to assist homeowners, at no cost, throughout the upgrade process, including system selection, soliciting design and installation services, and with grant applications.
Melanie Warren - Researcher
Melanie Warren is a longtime East End resident who holds a Master Degree in Marine Conservation and Policy from Stony Brook University's School of Marine and Atmospheric Sciences (SOMAS). Melanie has been working hard to uncover and address the causes of bacterial pollution in Mecox Bay.
With nearly 20 years of experience in local waters and a background in Marine Vertebrate Biology, Melanie brings a deep-rooted passion for protecting our coastal ecosystems. She previously worked with the Town of East Hampton Natural Resources Department, where she led the Septic Rebate Program and served on the Water Quality Technical Advisory Committee.
Melanie conducts the weekly water quality sampling around the bay.
Our Board
Michael Broxmeyer - President
Stephen Zaro - Treasurer
Michael Blaustein - Director
Ron Vinder -Director
Cindy Wenig - Director
David Wassong - Director
Howard Kivell - Director
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Help Our Cause
Your support and contributions will enable us to meet our goals and fund our mission.
