Long Island Tidal Wetlands Trends Analysis and Wetland Loss Characterization Matrix
New York State's tidal wetlands are an extremely valuable resource. They provide economic and ecological benefits by absorbing nutrients, providing habitat for commercial shellfish and countless other species, protecting the shoreline from erosion and flooding, and through several other functions. Unfortunately, these wetlands appear to be in decline, both in quantity and quality. The extent and exact causes of these changes are unknown as the last complete analysis of New York's tidal wetlands was completed in 1974.