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Hempstead, NY
Hempstead Harbor Park, Morgan Park, Tappen Beach, and Sands Point Preserve
The Hempstead Harbor Stewardship Area consists of Hempstead Harbor Park, Morgan Memorial Park, Tappen Beach, and Sands Point Preserve. The Stewardship Area once served a massive sand and gravel-mining operation that began in the late 1800s. Glacial sand deposits were shipped to New York City for the construction of the growing urban infrastructure. Now, restoration efforts are taking place around the harbor to remove invasive species, improve water quality, and revive wetlands. Hempstead Harbor supports both commercial and recreational fishing with several boat launching spots around the harbor. Parks and nature preserves that line the harbor allow residents and visitors to explore the local waters, go for a walk on a nearby trail, and even bird-watch. Blueway trails have been designed for those who visit the harbor by kayak or canoe, and will be implemented soon.
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New York has reopened 2,500 acres of shellfish beds that have been closed for more than 35 years.