Scientists work to turn back the sands of time.
Aerial view of Lake Ontario Dunes (via Hart and Steadman).
There’s a stunning 17-mile section of dunes on the eastern shore of Lake Ontario in New York. Formed by glaciers, the dunes protect wetlands, creating habitat for birds and fish.
Thirty years ago, unrestricted access led to damage by all-terrain vehicles and over-use. Today, trails and dune walkovers provide access while protecting the fragile ecosystem.
Skidmore College environmental scientist Tom Hart says the efforts are working. For example: “We’ve just had the return of piping plovers for the first time since 1983 in the last few years,” he said. Numerous state parks, wildlife management areas, and marinas offer many opportunities for the public to enjoy this unique habitat.
Hear More:
How did the dunes form? Hear Tom Hart talk talk about the shaping of the dunes.
Watch more:
New York Sea Grant speaks about the dunes on Fox affiliate WWNY TV 7 (via New York Sea Grant).
The fine print:
- This segment was produced with Cornell’s Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future, and supported by agreement with New York Sea Grant, funds provided by the Environmental Protection Fund under the authority of the New York Ocean and Great Lakes Ecosystem Conservation Act. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this broadcast are those of the originators and do not necessarily reflect the views of Stony Brook University or New York Sea Grant.
