By Tim Jahn, M.ED
The Wertheim National Wildlife refuge is located off Montauk Highway in Shirley and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The 2,550 acre preserve is bisected by the Carman’s River which flows into Bellport Bay and features a variety of habitats and wildlife, especially waterfowl. There are six miles of trails divided into loops of approximately one mile each. Canoeing on the river through the preserve is perhaps the best way to take in the natural beauty of the area.
The trails are wide and mostly flat and take you through woods and wetlands. At this time of year, there are lots of insects, so some sort of insect repellent is highly recommended. Bring your own water, but, as always, take out what you bring in.
The Visitor Center and parking area are located at the entrance to the preserve right off of Smith Road. Several interactive dioramas show different Long Island ecosystems. There is a gift shop run by the non-profit Friends of Wertheim and toilet facilities in the center.
To see scenes from the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge, double-click on the link above.
Creating Healthy Places to Live, Work and Play is a statewide initiative funded by the NYS Department of Health. In Suffolk County, Cornell Cooperative Extension has been helping communities become healthier through street and park improvements, community gardens, support for small food retailers and training child care staff in ways to prevent childhood obesity.
Tim Jahn is a Human Ecology Specialist with Cornell Cooperative Extension of Suffolk County’s Family Health and Wellness Program. He can be reached at 631-727-7850 ext. 331 or at tcj2@cornell.edu.