05/07/2026
"Ecological Site Design and Water Stewardship in Practice"
2LU/HSW
Caring for the Great South Bay begins on land and you can be part of the solution. We invite architects and students to join us for a hands-on environmental cleanup focused on improving the quality of water flowing into the bay. By removing litter, debris, and invasive species, you’ll help protect this vital ecosystem while earning AIA Learning Units.
No prior experience is needed. Students are especially encouraged to attend.
This effort connects directly with the “Creek Defender” program, led by the organization Save The Great South Bay. Volunteers work to care for the creeks that feed into the bay—cleaning waterways, restoring habitats, and reducing pollution at its source.
For architects, this work highlights an essential shift in design thinking. Rather than treating a site as isolated, architects are challenged to consider the entire water system; how runoff, landscaping, and material choices impact nearby creeks and, ultimately, the bay. This perspective leads to more responsible design strategies, including stormwater management, native planting, and natural filtration features like bioswales.
In short, programs like this push architecture toward working with ecosystems, not against them making environmental impact a core part of the design process rather than an afterthought.
All cleanup equipment will be provided. For your safety and comfort, please wear eye protection, long sleeves, long pants, and sturdy, water-resistant boots. Please print and sign the Liability Waiver and bring it with you the day of the event.
Date: May 9, 2026
Time: 9:00am
Location: Amityville-Ketchum Creek
Lake Drive and Kenmore
Free to AIA Members and Students
Sign up on the AIA Long Island Chapter website and also fill out the liability waiver.
