Sandy Point IBA meeting

It has come to our attention that the re-zoning of five parcels, located across the street from the Sandy Point Important Bird Area (IBA), from residential to residential/retail is being considered by the West Haven Planning and Zoning Commission during a public hearing this coming Tuesday, July 25th. Two of the parcels are directly adjacent to Old Field Creek which flows into the lagoon at Sandy Point. The lagoon is valuable foraging habitat for breeding Piping Plovers and American Oystercatchers, and is used during migration or for foraging by many more bird species of conservation concern. The rezoning would be to encourage revitalization of the properties. Several West Haven residents who live nearby have reached out to the Audubons and are afraid the properties will be redeveloped into either an extensive restaurant complex or condo complex. Building of a new structure at this location could have a major impact on Sandy Point, especially if there are any spills during the construction phase, not to mention it would cut off the local community (many volunteer their time at Sandy Point) from the shore. The residents are asking the birding community to come to the meeting to show their support for Sandy Point.

Some of our staff and volunteer crew during fencing operations in West Haven this spring

The Public Meeting will take place on Tuesday July 25th, 2017 at 7pm in Harriet Room North on the 2nd floor of City Hall at 355 Main Street in West Haven. Please consider attending and showing your support for Sandy Point and its birds!!! If you'd like more information, contact Corrie or Miley at the below email addresses.

Thank you,

Corrie Folsom-O'Keefe
IBA Program Coordinator
Audubon Connecticut
cfolsom-okeefe AT audubon.org

Milan G. Bull
Senior Director of Science and Conservation
Connecticut Audubon Society
mbull AT ctaudubon.org