Lake Ronkonkoma faces ecological pressures from shoreline erosion, nutrient-rich runoff, algae blooms, and the spread of invasive aquatic plants such as Hydrilla and Eurasian watermilfoil. These issues are intensified by insufficient stormwater infrastructure, sandy soils, and gentle topography, which accelerate runoff and wash organic waste into the lake.
This proposal introduces a recreation center centered on composting as an ecological restoration strategy. Harvested invasive plants and local organic waste are processed through aerobic composting, with dehydration and high-temperature decomposition reducing the risk of spreading pathogens or invasive species. The resulting compost is reused to improve soil structure and support a semi-moon-bound-inspired landscape system that slows runoff, retains stormwater, and mitigates erosion.
Native planting further absorbs excess nutrients and stabilizes the shoreline through root systems. The recreation center integrates community gardens, flower harvesting, compost distribution, exhibition space, administration, and water-quality monitoring, transforming waste management into ecological repair and local economic value.
