Monday, April 21, 2025
The Brookside Preserve, a 22-acre natural oasis straddling Baldwin and Freeport, will soon be the site of an ambitious ecological restoration project aimed at improving the environment and public health for generations to come.
Set for April 12, the initiative will introduce sustainable measures to help restore the preserve’s delicate ecosystem, reduce reliance on chemical pesticides, and enhance biodiversity.
At the heart of the project: bats.
Bats are known to play a vital role in controlling mosquito populations, offering a natural alternative to chemical pesticides.
Mosquitoes can carry more than 50 diseases, six of which are deadly.
While pesticides are commonly used to control outbreaks, experts warn they can harm waterways, native plants, and the insects and animals that support the local ecosystem.
In addition to boosting bat populations, the project includes the reintroduction of native plant species, supporting long-term habitat recovery for the preserve’s diverse woodland and freshwater environments.
The initiative is being led by the soon-to-be chartered Eco Rotaract of Nassau County, Long Island—an environmentally focused chapter of Rotary International.
Rotary, founded in 1905, has more than 1.2 million members across 200 countries and is a non-religious, non-political organization known for its global humanitarian efforts.
Local environmental advocate Christopher McBride, who has long championed Brookside Preserve, began envisioning the eco-focused Rotary chapter in 2023. “Rotary introduces sustainable solutions by planting native plants for pollinators,” he said over text.
Eco Rotaract of Nassau County aims to educate the public about ecological challenges and promote sustainable living through service and community engagement.
As part of its 2025 June launch and chartering, the group is offering discounted rates for new members.
The April 12 restoration event will run from 9 a.m. until completion. Volunteers from the community are encouraged to participate in building bat boxes, planting, and other tasks.
The project is supported by partners including Hicks Nursery, Atlantic Nursery, and Freeport Public Schools.
For more information or to volunteer, contact the Eco Rotaract of Nassau County at ecorotaryncli@gmail.com.
