Refuge Complex Seeks Public Comment for Compatibility Determinations
The Rhode Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex is seeking public review and comment on Draft Compatibility Determinations for environmental education and interpretation, wildlife observation and photography, and research activities on Block Island, John H. Chafee, Ninigret, Sachuest Point, and Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuges. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) will accept comments received or postmarked on or before June 18, 2025.
Block Island National Wildlife Refuge is unique in several ways. Unlike Rhode Island鈥檚 other four refuges, it is not located on the mainland but rather 12 miles off the state鈥檚 southern shore on Block Island. This refuge is distinctive because it works closely with other conservation organizations in an effort to protect land. Most importantly, the refuge is exceptional because of its location on an internationally recognized island, especially for wildlife conservation.
Block Island Refuge is primarily upland, except for beach habitat at Cow Cove, Sandy Point, West Beach, and Beane Point. Beach habitat includes beach grass, northern bayberry, wild rose, and beach plum, Upland shrub habitat includes northern arrowwood , pokeweed, Virginia creeper, northern bayberry, and pine trees.
Two federally listed species are known to breed on Block Island: the American burying beetle (endangered) and piping plover (threatened). The Service has completed recovery plans for both species.
Block Island Refuge is primarily upland, except for beach habitat at Cow Cove, Sandy Point, West Beach, and Beane Point. Beach habitat includes beach grass, northern bayberry, wild rose, and beach plum, Upland shrub habitat includes northern arrowwood , pokeweed, Virginia creeper, northern bayberry, and pine trees.
Two federally listed species are known to breed on Block Island: the American burying beetle (endangered) and piping plover (threatened). The Service has completed recovery plans for both species.