Mashomack Preserve is a natural area of nearly 2,100 acres which encompasses diverse habitats necessary for the survival of many species of plants and animals. Only 90 miles from New York City and comprising one third of Shelter Island, the Preserve was acquired by The Nature Conservancy in January of 1980. Mashomack was purchased to stop development of this nearly pristine peninsula and to protect one of the most dense populations of breeding ospreys on the east coast. In addition, Mashomack occasionally harbors nesting populations of the endangered piping plover and least tern, as well as a number of rare plants.

 Edged in white by 10 miles of coastline, Mashomack is an area of magnificent scenic beauty. Its combination of interlacing tidal creeks, woodlands, fields and coastline makes it a superb wildlife habitat. The extensive salt marshes of Mashomack are vitally significant ecologically, being the breeding ground and nursery for the smallest links in the marine chain of life.

 The Pine Swamp complex at the western edge of the Preserve has been desiginated a freshwater wetland of unique local importance” by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

 Fourteen hundred acres of upland oak and beech forest are now being allowed to develop into an old-growth forest, a habitat scarce in the Northeast. Open, grassy meadows provide another contrasting habitat.

All these areas are protected and managed to provide a safe haven for all native species.

Experiencing Mashomack
 Mashomack is a museum of life in process, a sanctuary where the natural cycles of flora, fauna, and ecosystems are allowed to complete themselves free from human interference. The Nature Conservancy’s mission at Mashomack Preserve is to maintain its full array of natural communities and species, and to restore to health those that have been disturbed by human action. To this end, the Preserve is made available for compatible scientific research, educational programs, and passive recreational use.

 We invite you to visit and explore Mashomack and to experience its unique beauty. In order to protect its delicate resources, we ask you to abide by the following rules:

 * Only Hiking Allowed
 Jogging, bicycling, and horseback riding may disturb flora or fauna and cause excessive wear on the trails.

 * Remain On Marked Trails
 Exploration of unmarked areas may result in disturbance of sensitive species and habitats as well as increased exposure to ticks.

*  No Collecting Allowed
 Accidental removal of rare specimens can result, diminishing the stability of nature and the enjoyment of later visitors.

*  No Pets Allowed
Domestic animals can disrupt and damage wildlife, or may become lost.

* Everything Carried In Must Be Carried Out
 Help keep Mashomack free of litter for habitat protection and your enjoyment.

*     Check Yourself Periodically For Ticks
 Tuck pants into socks, tuck shirts into pants, and button cuffs. Stay toward the center of roads and trails; avoid bushy, grassy areas. Use of repellents is recommended.

• The Nature Conservancy
  Mashomack is a preserve of The Nature Conservancy. The mission of The Nature Conservancy is to conserve the lands and waters on which all life depends.
  Thanks to the support of our more than 1 million members, we’ve built a tremendous record of success since our founding in 1951:
  · We’ve protected more than 119 million acres of land and 5,000 miles of rivers worldwide- and we operate more than 100 marine conservation projects globally.
  · We work in all 50 states and more than 30 countries- protecting habitats from grasslands to coral reefs, from Australia to Alaska to Zambia.
  · We address threats to conservation involving climate change, fresh water, oceans and conservation lands.

Mashomack Preserve is proud to be an integral part of this preeminent international nonprofit conservation organization.

Traveling to Mashomack

Take your best route to Shelter Island. When disembarking from the Greenport/North Ferry, follow Route 114 three miles south to the Preserve. If you come by way of the North Haven/South Ferry, follow Route 114 one mile north to the Preserve. The entrance is marked by a large wooden sign on the east side of Route 114.

Visiting Mashomack

In January, the Preserve is open only on weekends. For year-round hours of operation, please visit the Mashomack web-site: http://www.nature.org/Mashomack

The Harman Hawkins Visitor Center provides interpretive exhibits, information and a small selection of nature gifts.

Mashomack also offers nature programs and guided hikes throughout the year. Call the Preserve office for information and reservations.