By Sarah Moskowitz
The project will entail excavation of more than 3,000 cubic yards of accumulated sediment -- about the size of 30 football fields -- from the Pinesbrook drainage channel that carries storm runoff from Mineola and runs next to Tanglewood Pond.
The pond dried up over the summer due to drought conditions. Covering about three acres, the pond will be drained and excavated and the shoreline will be completely resculpted. Native wetland and upland plants will be planted, including blueberry and cranberry shrubs, irises and water lilies and grasses along the pond's fringe.
"Our goal here is to restore the pond and stabilize the pond banks with this vegetation material to decrease erosion and restore habitat," said Brian Schneider, a hydrogeologist with the Nassau County Department of Public Works.
In addition, a nature trail will be created through the preserve. The wood-chip trail will trace a circular path about a half-mile long and will feature low wooden footbridges over stream crossings.
Tanglewood is home to a wide variety of wildlife including raccoons, chipmunks, birds, turtles and frogs, but no additional animals will be brought in by the county DPW.
The project will cost around $1 million and will be funded by municipal capital bonds that were sold by the county. Within the next few weeks, a one-month bid period will begin for prospective contractors. The project is schedule to commence in the spring and will be completed within six to eight months, Schneider said.
