Debbie earned her masters degree in Marine Conservation and Policyfrom Stony Brook University and her bachelors degree in Environmental Studies with minors in both Marine Science and Sustainability Studies, also from Stony Brook. She graduated summa cum laude, while earning numerous academic and service awards. She also holds a degree in Women’s Studies from Suffolk. A graduate of Hampton Bays High school, Debbie has lived on the East End for over 40 years. She has four children, all of whom are Springs School and East Hampton High School graduates.
A PADI rescue diver, Debbie was awarded the Women Divers Hall of Fame Scholarship in Marine Conservation. She sits on the Board of Directors for the Riverhead Foundation for Marine Research and Preservation. She is also a DEC Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator and a rescue and transport volunteer for the Wildlife Rescue Center of the Hamptons. She has recently been awarded a ten-acre lease in Gardiners Bay, where she plans to grow shellfish for commercial and environmental purposes. At home, she tends to a large organic garden and is a beekeeper as well.
Extremely concerned about marine debris and marine pollution emanating from pesticides, stormwater, and wastewater, she feels these pervasive global problems must be addressed locally. Debbie is particularly interested in enhancing shellfish aquaculture for commercial and recreational harvest as well as for pollution mitigation. She also believes that seaweeds should be widely restored for habitat enhancement and pollution control. Debbie knows how to integrate environmental, economic, and social values in decision-making and environmental protection. She is a proactive force in protecting our environment while performing the various duties delegated to the Trustees.
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“As your incumbent Trustee, I pledge to: Continue to safeguard public lands while promoting and expanding public access to all our natural resources. Restore marine habitat and reduce contaminants into East Hampton waters. Increase public engagement and encourage active community involvement. Protect and enhance coastal ecology and water quality. Implement comprehensive dredging and bottomland excavation practices. Promote sustainable shoreline restoration practices while preserving our beaches.
I have the experience, knowledge, and dedication to continue to serve East Hampton in 2014 and beyond. I have worked hard since taking office in 2012. As an effective leader who gets things done, I would like to continue offering solutions for the people and the planet. You can vote for me on the Democrat or Working Family Party lines.”
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