Mattituck-Laurel Civic names Jen Murray 2025 Citizen of the Year

Jennifer Murray was named the Mattituck‑Laurel Civic Association’s 2025 Citizen of the Year at a March 12 ceremony attended by about 50 people. She has led volunteer efforts to monitor and protect shorebirds and other wildlife across the North Fork for several years.

Jennifer Murray was named the Mattituck‑Laurel Civic Association’s 2025 Citizen of the Year at a ceremony March 12 at Veteran's Beach Park. About 50 community members attended the event. Murray is a longtime Mattituck resident who has coordinated volunteer monitoring and protection of shorebirds and other North Fork wildlife. Her work includes public surveys, habitat work and youth education programs. Notable activities: - The award was presented at a March 12 ceremony at Veteran's Beach Park attended by about 50 people. - Murray has monitored endangered shorebird populations on North Fork beaches alongside more than a dozen volunteers and often works long days during the shorebird season, including repairing shorebird fencing. - She is a founding member of the Beach Nesting Bird Workgroup and shares protection information for piping plovers, least terns, common terns and American oystercatchers across Long Island. - Murray helped identify sites for new osprey platforms, gathered volunteers to install them, and helps facilitate the annual Return of the Osprey events; she also runs a summer nature camp. - She monitors bald eagles for the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, runs an annual Bald Eagle survey with more than 30 participants, and coordinates the local Christmas Bird Count. - Murray has led beach cleanups, grass plantings and dune restoration, assisted in rescuing cold‑stunned endangered sea turtles, and monitors a range of local species with community partners. Summary: Community leaders and local organizations noted Murray’s long record of volunteer conservation work and education across the North Fork. The recognition highlights ongoing local efforts to protect shorebirds and other species. Undetermined at this time.