Reel Point Preserve
About
The fragile sand peninsula of Reel Point Preserve, donated to the Peconic Land Trust in 1995 by Marsha and Herb Stern, is a beautiful wildlife habitat at the tip of Ram Island on Shelter Island. With American beach grass, seaside goldenrod, and bayberry, the peninsula is a haven for migratory birds and butterflies, including osprey, piping plovers and Monarchs.
The Stern family at the dedication of the preserve.
planting beach grass with neighbors from Ram Island
But its existence is threatened by erosion.
Over the years the Trust, in partnership with the Town of Shelter Island and neighbors from Ram Island, has worked to stabilize the land with limited success. Storm erosion has significantly changed the configuration of the property.
Since Hurricane Sandy, the Trust has worked with the Town to replenish Reel Point with dredge materials from nearby Coecles Harbor and Gardiner’s Bay and plant materials purchased and installed with funds raised from contributions from Shelter Island residents.
![block.image[0].title](/assets/images/Reel-Point-Restoration.jpg)
Unfortunately, this benefits of this remediation have been temporary as erosion continues, and funds are needed to help us develop a better strategy. In 2016, the Shelter Island Town Board passed a resolution to grant the Trust half of the cost to conduct a study and develop a management plan for Reel Point. The study will be led by Lockwood, Kessler & Barlett, Inc., a highly respected and successful Long Island-based engineering and consulting firm.
Things To Do
Birdwatching
Photography
Sailing
Get Involved
We are asking our supporters to contribute to the study and on-going stewardship of Reel Point through a gift to the Trust.
It is through the generosity of people like the Sterns that these fragile properties are protected for the future. Your support is also crucial as we work to ensure its future. Donate today!
If you have any questions, please contact: