Last updated: May 12, 2022
Place
The Sunken Forest Tour: The Heart of the Forest
NPS/Sucena
We call this “the heart” because it is the space where the trails all converge. From here you may choose to proceed west, down the longer loop to your right, or south, down the trail to your left. This audio tour will continue down the southward trail for one last stop.
Before we proceed to that stop, however, it is useful to take stock of what we’ve learned. This spot is not just “the heart” because of the trails convergence. It is also one part of Fire Island where the holly trees which make the forest so special grow the tallest. Many of these trees are a hundred to two hundred years old. They exist here within a delicate balance, one managed by each and every plant and animal which calls this forest home.
The forces of wind, waves, and water are constantly reshaping Fire Island, but here an unusual degree of stability has fostered a globally rare ecosystem, and a profound example of biodiversity. As stewards of this forest, you are part of this delicate balance, responsible for its continued survival and enjoyment for yourself and for future generations.
It is up to us to find solutions to these monumental problems. Concerning the deer, it is easy to avoid feeding them. In addition to artificial reduction and other related management policies we believe it is possible to restore balance between the deer and this environment, but only if we are careful to respect wildlife and keep it wild.
As to climate change it is important to remember that human produced greenhouse gases like CO2 are contributing most to the planet's warming, producing a “heat trapping blanket” which envelopes the earth's atmosphere. By reducing carbon emissions from greenhouse gases, and by maintaining and even cultivating habitats like this we could work to offset these effects. It may feel like an overwhelming task, but the future remains unwritten.
Though there are concerning signs of decline due to climate change and due to human interaction with the island’s deer, our scientists are actually quite hopeful. They believe that with respect and proper management, this forest can continue to shade us for years to come.