Spanning 822 acres, Plum Island is a place of diverse wildlife and significant historical landmarks and a site of great opportunity for ecotourism and scientific research.
The island boasts great biodiversity; home to over 229 bird species, including endangered and threatened ones like the piping plovers and roseate terns, it supports nearly a quarter of all bird species found in North America. It also hosts 111 species of conservation concern and New York’s largest seal haul-out, making it an important refuge for marine mammals. These features make the island an unparalleled destination for birdwatchers, nature enthusiasts, and conservationists alike.
Beyond its ecological importance, Plum Island enjoys a rich history. It is home to two national historic sites: the Plum Island Light Station, established in 1827, and Fort Terry, a former military fort from the late 19th century. Additionally, for decades the Plum Island Animal Disease Laboratory (PIADC) has served as a hub for critical research, protecting U.S. livestock from foreign animal diseases. With the laboratory scheduled to close in 2024, the need to protect the island’s great history and ecology is abundant.
Efforts to preserve Plum Island are gaining momentum, with Representative LaLota’s Plum Island National Monument Act (H.R. 1584), which was approved by the Committee on Natural Resources on November 20th, 2024, and Senator Schumer’s Plum Island Preservation Study Act (S.5136) seeking to uphold ecological conservation and historical preservation for the island. The island’s establishment as a national monument would ensure that the island remains a thriving ecological and historical resource.
Organizations like the Preserve Plum Island Coalition and Save the Sound are advocating for conservation. With its stunning natural habitats, importance for biodiversity, unique history, and opportunities for sustainable development, Plum Island stands as a testament to the need for thoughtful preservation. Protecting this unique treasure will not only honor its past but also secure its future as a vibrant part of our natural and cultural heritage.
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Ellen runs campaigns to protect America’s beautiful places, from local beachfronts to remote mountain peaks. She sits on the Steering Committee of the Arctic Defense Campaign and co-coordinates the Climate Forests Campaign. Ellen previously worked as the organizing director for Environment America’s Climate Defenders campaign and managed grassroots campaign offices across the country. Ellen lives in Denver, where she likes to hike in Colorado’s mountains.
