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he Jamaica Bay
Wildlife Refuge is a favourite spot for the birdwatchers and nature-lovers of
New York City, as well as for tourists visiting the city.
A slice of wild wetland not far from JFK Airport in Queens,
the reserve hosts both freshwater and saltwater habitats, attracting a wide
diversity of birds. There are over 320 different bird species that have been
spotted at the site, and prior to 2012, the park received about half a million
visitors per year.
But when Hurricane Sandy hit in October of 2012, this
special place sustained some damage.
West Pond, a 45-acre body of brackish water, was breached
and is now exposed to a higher flow of salt water. The surrounding water’s edge
has changed with the new salinity, and invasive species are choking native
trees.
Today, three organizations announced the start of a major
restoration project, which not only aims to preserve the Jamaica Bay Wildlife
Refuge as a key habitat for migratory birds, but will work to make it more
resistant to higher sea levels and a changing climate
Read the Treehugger
story - “Climate-resistant restoration announced at NYC ecological treasure”.
