Biological Study of Irondequoit Bay

Abstract

: Irondequoit Bay is a major ecological resource in western New York, and much has been done for 30 years to improve its water quality and maintain its natural physical and ecological features. Although many studies have been done on selected groups of flora and fauna (particularly aquatic) in and near the Bay, this is the first comprehensive study of the biological resources of the Bay since the New York State Biological Surveys in the 1930s. This study provides scientific data to support recommendations for land and water use in the Irondequoit Bay Harbor Management Plan, and it provides a benchmark for future studies as development and natural resource management occur in the study area.