We want your visit to Avalon Nature Preserve to be as pleasant as possible while putting nature first. We have compiled a few commonly asked questions and answers.
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As of Monday, August 19, 2024, the preserve will be closed until further notice. Our maintenance crew will require the time and the space to safely remove trees and branches that have fallen throughout the preserve. Additionally, many of the trails require repair due to washout. We appreciate your support by remaining out of the preserve during this time. We are unsure of the exact timeline of reopening but this will be communicated via our website and social media accounts (Facebook & Instagram).
While Avalon is not currently in need of public assistance a few local organizations are seeking help.
The Ward Melville Heritage Organization is seeking volunteers to assist with clearing Mill Pond Creek on Thursday, August 22 at 8:30 AM. If you’re interested in lending a hand, please reach out to 631-751-2244 (as of 08/20/24).
The team at Stony Brook Harbor Kayak & Paddleboard Rentals has been clearing Mill Pond Creek during every low tide cycle. Please reach out to them via Instagram at sbharborrentals, email at sbharborrentals@gmail.com, or phone at 631-834-3130 (as of 08/20/24).
We are grateful for the incredible generosity and the desire to give back that has been demonstrated by all of you. Your enthusiasm for raising funds to support restoration efforts has been truly inspiring.
If you wish to make a donation, we kindly ask that you consider contributing to The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (WMHO). Please note that WMHO owns and operates T. Bayles Minuse Mill Pond and Park, not Avalon. Avalon does not have any ownership or rights concerning Mill Pond.
When making a donation, you can specify the ‘purpose of donation’ as either for Mill Pond and Park restoration or for general support of the organization. Your contributions will play a crucial role in the ongoing efforts to restore and maintain Mill Pond.
We are thankful for our supportive community and are confident in the restoration of Mill Pond.
We want to clarify that Avalon Nature Preserve has not set up or authorized any donation websites. Please be cautious and avoid making donations through any unofficial channels.
If you have any doubts or need confirmation about any information related to donations, don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly at communications@avalonnaturepreserve.org.
Thank you for your continued support and vigilance!
CSA members should be advised of the following change for the week of August 19th:
Wednesday, August 21: NO PICK UP AVAILABLE
Saturday, August 24: Pick up available between 10AM – 12PM at Birdsfoot Farm
Updates regarding the following weeks will be posted here and on our Birdsfoot Farm Facebook and Instagram accounts. It is our hope that we can return to our Wednesday/Saturday pick up cadence soon! We will keep everyone posted.
Farmstand operations will remain a week by week call and will be updated via our Birdsfoot Farm Facebook and Instagram accounts as well as here on our website.
There will be NO farmstand on Saturday, August 24 or Sunday, August 25. We apologize for any inconvenience.
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*SPECIAL NOTICE AS OF MONDAY, AUGUST 19, 2024 – THE PRESERVE WILL BE CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE*
Tuesday – Sunday, year round. Closed Mondays.
Spring: 7AM-7PM (April-May)
Summer: 6AM-8PM (June-August)
Fall: 7AM-6PM (September-October)
Winter: 7AM-5PM (November-March)
No, entrance to the Preserve is always free.
Avalon Preserve has no public restrooms.
In accordance with our “leave no trace” ethos, Avalon asks that you carry out what you carry in.
Avalon asks that you enjoy the habitat without picnicking. There are great eating options within walking distance in nearby Stony Brook Village.
Groups of up to 15 are permitted in the Preserve but must receive permission from the Preserve office. Please contact us at 631-689-0619.
Unfortunately we no longer allow professional photography at Avalon.
Avalon does not allow visitors to host any special events.
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A portion of the white trail near the Mill Pond Entrance is wheelchair accessible. Please call the main office for more information.
Yes. Please follow this link for an interactive map of the Preserve’s trails and environments.
Avalon Preserve has an outstanding field guide- to purchase visit our online shop.
There are no regular guided tours at Avalon Preserve.
Absolutely. We love dogs at Avalon, but we have some simple rules for them and their owners.
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Avalon’s office is located at 200 Harbor Road, Stony Brook, New York.
The barn is located on Shep Jones Lane in the Village of Head of the Harbor.
The barn is only open to the public during programs; it is closed to the public during all other times.
No.
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No. The feeding of any wildlife is strictly prohibited. Please observe all wildlife from a distance and remember that you are a guest in their home.
Yes, but a permit is required. Please contact Joe Lombardi at the Ward Melville Heritage Organization.
From time to time, our outstanding maintenance staff will be working on habitat restoration and trail improvements. Please refrain from entering closed areas at all times.
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The Preserve hosts a wide variety of programs throughout the year. For further information, please see our interactive calendar.
Space for summer programs is limited. Placement is determined by lottery. Names will be chosen at random and all applicants will be notified via email of the status of their submission. For further information, please email Miss Sue.