NCDPW – Hempstead Bay Hassocks Restoration

Galvin Bros., Inc, completed the rehabilitation of two hassocks (marshes), South Black Banks Hassock and Pearsall Hassock, located in Hempstead Bay for the Nassau County Department of Public Works. The work on South Black Banks Hassocks included filling of historic mosquito ditches with biodegradable materials, the creation of natural tidal runnels to enhance tidal flows within the marsh, and creating more stable marsh platforms in low-lying marsh areas. On Pearsall Hassock, GBI cleared and grubbed the site of invasive vegetation, demolished (6) abandoned facilities including hazardous material abatement, removed the abandoned piping and the former sludge dock structure – consisting of a pier, wharf, and dolphins. After removing the abandoned facilities on the hassock, GBI stabilized the shoreline and bank and restored the low marsh along the shoreline to establish a long-term, sustainable shoreline and marsh habitat. Using the excess material from the bank stabilization GBI regraded the remaining portions of the site and planted and seeded the area to establish a mosaic of native maritime shrubland and meadow.

As all work was performed on isolated marshes in Hempstead Bay, GBI had to establish shoreline access on both hassocks. All personnel, equipment, materials, and debris and had to transported via barge and boat to and from land. Further, GBI utilized their fleet of specialty low ground pressure equipment, designed to work in marsh and tidal areas, to comply all environmental regulations and restrictions.