Suffolk Reporter

Representative Nick LaLota recently gathered federal, state, and local officials along with the United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to discuss the emergency dredging of Lake Montauk Inlet. This waterway is vital for Long Island's commercial fishing industry and regional economy.

The press conference emphasized the importance of this dredging project for maintaining the safety and accessibility of the inlet. LaLota played a crucial role in coordinating federal action to advance this initiative, which is key to protecting local maritime industries and preserving Long Island's waterways.

“This is what good government looks like. We are here today because of a united effort from all levels of government to respond swiftly to a critical need in our community. I am especially grateful to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for their swift response to our request for immediate action, as they are the ones doing the heavy lifting here, quite literally," said LaLota. "The emergency dredge of Lake Montauk Inlet is not just about accessible waterways; it’s about maritime safety preserving our commercial fishing industry and local economy.”

In addition to Congressman LaLota, other speakers included Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine, Col. Alex Young from USACE, New York State Legislators Senator Anthony Palumbo and Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni, East Hampton Town Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez, Bonnie Brady from the Long Island Commercial Fishing Association, and local commercial fishing captain Dave Aripotch. Several local leaders were also present.

Bonnie Brady highlighted the project's significance: “The Montauk commercial fishing fleet is grateful for the gargantuan effort of Congressman LaLota and his team to bring the Army Corps of Engineers' Dredge Murden to Montauk in record time. When a boat runs aground, it can be life-threatening and in some cases you only have seconds to react."

This emergency dredge aims to keep Lake Montauk Inlet navigable for both recreational and commercial vessels. The initiative demonstrates LaLota's commitment to addressing urgent district needs by collaborating with various stakeholders.

Background information reveals that USACE had planned a 17-foot dredging project at Montauk Inlet in 2024 but faced delays leading to dangerous shoaling conditions. A temporary solution involved using Dredge MURDEN from Cape May, New Jersey, starting on February 15, 2025, aiming for completion within four days at a depth of 12 feet until further dredging later this year.