We need jobs and our wetlands (letter to the editor)
Today 7:30 AM
By Ilona Ponyatyshyn
The Graniteville wetlands located on the North Shore have demonstrated their importance in protecting its residents from severe flooding. After reading Joseph Ostapiuk’s April 23 article, “‘Nobody’s listening’: Dire warnings as BJ’s construction nears starting date,” I became concerned for the safety of people living nearby as the wetlands’ unique benefits to absorb water and mitigate floods become compromised with continuing construction of retail warehouses.
Furthermore, I see potential in our wetlands to provide economic stimulation through the use of its many natural resources. As a fellow Staten Islander, I’ve come to appreciate the benefits of the surrounding wetlands as they provide habitat for unique wildlife, purify water and protect against flooding. However, while I understand that maintaining these benefits has prevented more than $625 million in property damage, Ostapiuk has neglected to address the increase in demand for jobs for Staten Island’s growing population.