Letters

I support the work of the Conscience Point Shellfish Hatchery and have not seen a degradation of the beauty of the walk to Conscience Point. My grandchildren continue to enjoy the walk to the point, as well as learning about the oyster life cycle at the hatchery and seeing the local wildlife. North Sea Harbor as it was in 1640 is gone forever, but the land owned by the Southampton History Museum and leased by the hatchery can still preserve natural beauty and support oyster farming. The importance of the filter feeding of the oysters is widely recognized as critically important for the marine environment.

I am mystified that no attempt of finding some compromise was sought by the museum. Surely, the hatchery can modify its activities and continue the valuable work of oyster farming that benefits the local community. The hatchery is a living monument to the storied tradition of local baymen. I hope it will not perish due to a well-intentioned but overzealous pursuit of a very narrow-minded goal.

Justin LaMont

North Sea