Save The Great South Bay Applauds Major Step Toward Restoring Water Quality and Reducing Nitrogen Pollution
Babylon, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul announced $30 million in state funding this week to help homeowners replace outdated septic systems, with $20 million dedicated specifically to Suffolk County. The investment represents a significant step toward protecting Long Island’s sole source aquifer and restoring the health of the Great South Bay and other coastal waters.
The funding will expand access to advanced wastewater treatment systems that significantly reduce nitrogen pollution—one of the leading causes of harmful algal blooms, fish kills, and the loss of seagrass and shellfish beds in the bay.
“This is exactly the kind of leadership we need,” said Robyn Silvestri, Executive Director of Save The Great South Bay. “Replacing old cesspools and septic systems with modern, nitrogen-reducing technology is one of the most important things we can do to protect our drinking water and bring back the bay.”
Under the newly signed legislation, the state’s Septic System Replacement Program will increase its cost-sharing cap from 50% to 75% of eligible costs, with a new maximum reimbursement of $25,000—more than doubling the previous limit. The expanded funding will make advanced systems more affordable and accessible for homeowners across the county.
The announcement builds on Governor Hochul’s 2024 signing of the Suffolk County Water Quality Restoration Act, which authorized a ballot referendum to create long-term funding for wastewater infrastructure and clean water technologies.
For Long Island, the water quality crisis is rooted in outdated infrastructure and fragile environmental conditions. With most Suffolk homes relying on septic systems instead of sewers, and with sandy soils offering little filtration, nitrogen and other contaminants flow easily into the aquifer and nearby creeks, rivers, and bays.
“Every time we install an advanced system, we’re taking direct action to reduce nitrogen pollution and safeguard our environment,” said Silvestri. “This new funding gives our communities the chance to catch up after decades of decline—and begin writing a new chapter for the Great South Bay.”
Save The Great South Bay continues to advocate for science-based, community-supported solutions through its Creek Defender program and policy engagement across the South Shore. The organization sees this legislation as a turning point in the fight for clean water and coastal restoration on Long Island.
About Save The Great South Bay
Save The Great South Bay is a 501(c)(3) environmental non-profit whose mission is to restore and protect water quality in the Great South Bay. We achieve this through four primary programs: the Great South Bay Oyster Project, the Creek Defender Program, Bay Friendly Yards/Habitat Restoration, public education, and advocacy. Learn more at www.savethegreatsouthbay.org.