Moriches Bay Preserves

About

Between 1988 and 1995, the Peconic Land Trust acquired over 34 acres of natural habitat along Moriches Bay. These four preserves in the Moriches Bay estuary are part of a vast estuary ecosystem which eventually drains in the the Atlantic Ocean. The wetland is extremely important for reproducing native flora and fauna. Many local residents and boaters have also enjoyed the viewshed provided by these preserves.

Gunning Point Preserve:

Sites

In December 1988, Romaine and Phillip Maloney donated a parcel of property between Moriches Bay and Dune Road in Westhampton. The property consists of 2.9 acres of tidal wetlands and upland meadow.

Tanner’s Neck Preserve:

Frank and Joseph Savino made a gift to the Trust of an 11.9 acre wetland along Moriches Bay in December of 1991. The area is known for its rich wildlife and view towards Moriches Bay. The reason for the preservation of the site is to protect the intertidal marsh habitat and to continue to provide for a beautiful scenic view of the wetlands.

Jagger Preserve:

In 1994, Henry Jagger donated 3+ acres of wetlands located to the north of South Country Road on the east side of Brushy Neck Creek in Westhampton. This preserve protects an unusually rich wildlife habitat and scenic water views.

Swan Island Preserve:

In December 1995, this 16.2-acre island in Moriches Bay (Village of Westhampton Dunes) was donated by Swan Island Associates to the Trust. Historically, the island was used by local families for salt hay harvesting and, later, duck hunting. The owners wanted to protect its scenic views and significant tidal wetlands in perpetuity.

In winter the marsh is habitat for NYS-endangered short eared owl as well as snowy owls. A diverse group of waterfowl also visit the marsh and its waters to feed during the winter migration. New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) is granted permission to monitor the island for water bird nesting activity and population surveys.

More recently the Trust assisted the Town of Southampton and the DiPirro/Dederick family to conserve 1.7 acres along Brushy Neck Creek. This nature preserve sits at the eastern end of the Moriches Bay Estuary and provides a rich wildlife habitat. Learn more about this conservation story on our blog.