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She’s the first Islip woman approved to take ownership of Town-owned bottomland in the Great South Bay.
Fire Island’s Aileen Ruddy will use one parcel of land for shellfish cultivation through the town’s Bay Bottom Lease Program.
“To be able to make a living and help the environment was so exciting to me,” said Ruddy of Fair Harbor. “Food brings people together, so I love that idea.”
The mother of a 6-year-old son learned of the program after she left her job in New York City. The town awarded her lease on Jan. 14. While Ruddy doesn’t boast any shellfish farming experience, she has been doing her share of homework in preparation.
“I’m in the beginning stage of this process,” she said. “I have plans to work on a farm in April, and I’m not afraid to get my hands dirty,”
Islip Town Supervisor Angie Carpenter said bottomland aquaculture program is vital to the health of the Great South Bay.
“Each oyster filters 30-50 gallons of water per day,” she said.
Top: Aileen Ruddy with shellfish near the Great South Bay (courtesy).
