Judith A. Enck, EPA Region 2 Administrator & WLT President, Lori Ensinger, November 2016

Otter Creek Preserve boasts several important habitats that are crucial for healthy wildlife populations and a healthy Long Island Sound. In 2017, thanks to a major grant award from the Long Island Sound Futures Fund (LISFF)—WLT will continue to restore the coastal forest at Otter Creek.

The 35-acre Preserve safeguards a tidal marsh and a coastal forest along the Long Island Sound, intercepting and cleaning the water flowing directly into the Sound.  However, encroachment from invasive trees, shrubs and vines has degraded the health of the forest and compromised its critical role in both flood mitigation and water filtration. Also at risk is the forest’s ability to support over 100 species of nesting and migratory birds.

Following the improvements made in 2015 and 2016 with support from the Westchester Community Foundation, WLT will continue to remove non-native trees, shrubs and vines at the Preserve. We will replant these areas with native species selected to create a more diverse forest ecosystem, and provide local wildlife with appropriate shelter and food throughout the year. The LISFF grant will also support expanded outreach and educational programming at Otter Creek so that school groups and other local organizations can learn more about the value of the Preserve within the context of the greater Long Island Sound ecosystem.

Community work days will be offered throughout the year to assist in the completion of this work. Tasks will include invasive plant removal, fence construction, and the planting of native species.