Long Island Sound Stewardship Act of 2006

The Long Island Sound Stewardship Act of 2006 established a collaborative framework between the federal government, New York, and Connecticut to identify and protect environmentally and recreationally significant land around the Long Island Sound. The law created a specialized advisory committee to recommend specific "stewardship sites"—such as natural habitats, parks, and historic areas—for federal recognition and restoration grants.

For local citizens, the Act’s primary impact is the preservation of open spaces and the improvement of public access to the shoreline for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. It provides federal funding to help state and local governments or non-profit organizations purchase land or conservation easements, ensuring these areas remain protected from development. Importantly, the law protects private property rights by making participation entirely voluntary and requiring the consent of landowners before any site can be designated for the program.