North Menantic Preserve
About
The North Menantic Preserve was created in late February of 2020 when six acres in the West Neck area of Shelter Island were permanently protected. This conservation project involved the Peconic Land Trust, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), the Town of Shelter Island and the landowners, Ned Smyth and Rima Mardoyan-Smyth.
When the Town of Shelter Island approached the landowners with a conservation option for the parcel rather than development they were pleased. Since they live on land adjacent to the preserve they were happy to know that the land would remain wild.
Preservation of the land is not only beneficial on the surface. This preserve will continue to provide significant benefits for the replenishment of Shelter Island's sole source aquifer. The protected land has the capacity to recharge – the process of replenishing the aquifer’s water supply – 3.5 million gallons of water annually based on available acreage alone.
The preserve also provides a natural habitat for hiking and bird watching.
The Trust worked with the Town and NYSDEC to purchase the property. Funding for the acquisition of the property came from a grant from the NYSDEC. This competitive grant program provides reimbursement up to 75 percent for the acquisition of lands that protect our source water resources. The Trust established its Regional Aquifer Protection Land Acquisition Program to help the Towns on eastern Long Island protect more land for water quality. At closing the Trust sold the land to the Town for the remaining 25 percent of the acquisition cost.
“We are incredibly thankful to Governor Cuomo and the Peconic Land Trust for taking the necessary steps to protect Long Island’s drinking water. This acquisition demonstrates the State’s dedication to preparing for climate change and protecting the residents.”
Shelter Island Town Supervisor, Gerry Siller
For more information about the North Menantic Preserve and the Trust’s involvement in the project, please watch the following video.
Visitor Information
Enjoy a path around high grass meadows, shrubs, trees and ravine.
Access to the preserve is on North Menantic Road across from Bowditch Road. There are 2 - 3 off road parking spaces available.
Visit the Town of Shelter Island website for more information.
North Menantic Preserve
N Menantic Rd, Shelter Island, NY
Things To Do
Hiking
Birdwatching
