The Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex

Description
Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge consists of 2,400 acres on the south shore of Long Island, including the Carmans River, one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on Long Island. The Refuge has a wide diversity of habitats, including oak-pine woodland, fields, ponds, a river, streams, bay, and fresh, brackish and saltwater wetlands. These habitats attract and support a remarkable diversity and abundance of wildlife. The Refuge is a haven for most species of wildlife found on Long Island, including waterfowl, deer, muskrats, fox, weasels, other small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, shorebirds, raptors, songbirds, and aquatic wildlife, including game fish.

History
The first inhabitants were the Unkechaug Indian tribe. They utilized the river for fishing, shellfishing, and for access to Fire Island and the Atlantic Ocean for fishing and whaling. Europeans later utilized the area to harvest firewood and salt hay. After acquisition by Cecile and Maurice Wertheim, much of the property was maintained in a natural state, but portions were managed to improve wildlife production and waterfowl hunting. The Wertheims donated 1,800 acres in 1947 to begin what is today the Wertheim National Wildlife Refuge. The Refuge size has been increased with additional donations and a purchase with duck stamp funds.

Management
The Refuge is managed to protect the Carmans River estuary for use by migratory waterfowl (particularly black ducks, mallards, wood ducks, and gadwalls) and other waterbirds. Other parts of the Refuge are managed to increase habitat diversity and wildlife productivity. Impoundments are managed to enhance wetland habitat, and forest openings are maintained to increase the variety of plant species utilized as wildlife foods. Grassland areas are improved to provide nesting cover for waterfowl and other wildlife. Nest boxes are maintained for a sizable population of wood ducks.

Public Use Activities
Visitors may park at the office and walk along the entrance road (open Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.). The one-mile Indian Landing Nature Trail is accessible from the river only and provides access through the interior of the forest.

Wheelchair access is available from the parking lot to the office and interpretive kiosk.

Canoes and boats may be carried in and launched into the Carmans River at Beaver Dam Road and at the Fishing Access Site off Montauk Highway, which is cooperatively maintained with the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.

Boats are permitted to land only at Indian Landing, the Fishing Access Site, and Beaver Dam Road (except for emergencies).

Fishing from the shore is permitted between the Sunrise and Montauk Highways and at the end of Beaver Dam Road. Wading while fishing is permitted from Sunrise Highway to the railroad bridge. Fishing from a boat is permitted anywhere except on the Big Fish Creek Impoundment. State regulations apply. Fishing from the Refuge bridge is prohibited.

Directions
From Route 27A (Montauk Highway) turn south onto Smith Road, just east of the Carmans River. Go 1/3 mile and the entrance is on the right.