Storm affects Long Island refuges

A number of refuges that are part of the Long Island National Wildlife Refuge Complex, including Oyster Bay and Wertheim national wildlife refuges, were heavily impacted by Hurricane Sandy. There are a number of fallen trees, eroded and damaged roads that are impassable throughout the complex, and trails are littered with debris from the storm surge. Despite these conditions, refuge facilities, including the new visitor center and headquarters facility that opened in May, sustained minor damages from the storm. Staff will continue to evaluate the full extent of refuge conditions.