National Estuarine Research Reserve System

Reserve Information

Designated

1982

Lead Agency

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation
(Visit Site)

Protects

4,838 acres

Located

The reserve is comprised of four coastal wetlands situated along 100 miles of the Hudson River in New York

Additional Information

Habitat found here is home to more than 200 species of fish and other river-dependent wildlife, especially birds. The estuary services as a nursery for fish such as sturgeon, striped bass, and American shad.

Biogeographic Region

Virginian

Tidal Range

1.2 meters

About This Reserve

The Hudson River estuary stretches 153 miles and is profoundly influenced by the ocean's tides for more than half its length. The tidal Hudson River links the valley economically, culturally, and ecologically, and has been a cradle of human development for thousands of years. This research reserve spans the middle 100 miles of the Hudson River estuary and is comprised of four sites: Stockport Flats, Tivoli Bays, Iona Island, and Piermont Marsh. A diversity of habit exists here, covering freshwater and brackish tidal wetlands and uplands.

The Hudson River Reserve is one of 30 areas in the National Estuarine Research Reserve System that is protected for long-term research, water-quality monitoring, education, and coastal stewardship. The sites are managed on a daily basis by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation and other local partners. NOAA’s Office for Coastal Management provides funding, national guidance, and technical assistance.

National Estuarine
Research Reserves

Hudson River National Estuarine Research Reserve