In 1992, a northeaster swept over the sanctuary causing considerable erosion. The storm prompted the installation of unsightly concrete and asphalt piles to prevent future washouts. Eventually, invasive and highly adaptable common reeds took over the degraded site. In 2001, the concrete and asphalt were replaced with sandy dunes planted with native plants, such as beach grass (Ammophila breviligulata). The dunes’ core was made out of rock topped with sand. The plants’ root structures bind the sand, keeping the dunes in place so they can carry out
their role as a natural storm barrier. The dunes now provide nesting and feeding habitat for native shorebirds.
To View The Site: The site is at the Edith G. Read Natural Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in the City of Rye. To get to the sanctuary, enter through Playland Park and follow the signs to the sanctuary. Park at the nature center.