Branches of the Bay

Funded by the Joseph Robert Foundation, Branches of the Bay is a community-based tree planting initiative aimed at addressing critical environmental challenges in the Great South Bay. Climate change, habitat loss, and a declining tree canopy are threatening local biodiversity, worsening flooding, and disrupting migratory bird populations. This program focuses on expanding native tree cover, restoring vital wildlife habitats, and engaging residents in climate action.

Through the distribution of bare-root saplings purchased from NYSDEC, we are empowering the community to take part in restoring and enhancing our natural environment. These trees will be available at no cost to the community in Spring 2026, with exact pickup dates to be announced. Saplings will be distributed at Brookside Park. Together, we can strengthen our bay’s ecosystem and create a more sustainable future for all.

Fire Island Motus Station

In 2026 GSBAS accepted the opportunity to manage the Fire Island Motus station. Motus is a an international network of stationos using radio telemetry to track small animals, birds, bats, and insects. Every individual station contributes to a web of data collection points, creating a more complete picutre of animal behavior. Motus provides vital data for research and conservation projects. 

GSBAS will now be responsible for maintaining and repairing the station located on Fire Island. If you’d like to volunteer or donate for this effort, please reach out or come to a general member meeting!

Discontinued: Blue Bird Nest Box Program

In 2010, Edith & Bob Wilson spearheaded our Bluebird nest box project at Connetquot River State Park Preserve. 

The program has been discontinued, but you can read about the program in our post archives.