06/01/2026
Happy Anniversary to US! 🥂
25 years ago this month, Avalon Nature Preserve (formerly Avalon Park and Preserve) first opened its gates to the community. What began as a simple idea to create a natural place where Paul would have loved to spend time grew into something much larger. His vibrant spirit continues to shape our mission, guiding our commitment to protection and restoration. We believe Paul would take great joy in seeing the strong connections that now exist between visitors and the thriving forests and meadows that make up the preserve.
In 1998, we partnered with Andropogon Associates, a landscape architecture and ecological planning firm, to help restore 84 acres of land acquired from The Ward Melville Heritage Organization (8 acres) and the Coleman Family (76 acres). Together, we worked to return the property to its native habitat while thoughtfully creating a peaceful space for the community to enjoy.
Construction began in 1999, and by June 2001, we proudly opened our gates, inviting the public to experience Avalon’s natural beauty. Over time, the preserve has become a cherished hidden gem, known for its scenic trails and birdwatching opportunities. In 2016, Avalon expanded with the addition of two more properties: Shore Farm (28.5 acres), acquired from the Lawrence Family, and East Farm Preserve (55 acres), acquired from The Nature Conservancy.
As Avalon has grown, so too has our vision. In May 2018, we launched our Comprehensive Master Plan, centered on three guiding principles: Protect, Restore, and Inspire. That same year, we also acquired Birdsfoot Farm (formerly Perry Farm), a 46.5-acre property from the Lund Family. At the time, much of the land was fallow or overtaken by invasive species. Today, Birdsfoot Farm is being revitalized through conservation and regenerative farming practices, with the goal of returning it to productive agricultural use.
We look forward to continuing to serve our community by providing a safe, welcoming, and vibrant natural space for years to come. Thank you for your ongoing support and stewardship, and a heartfelt thank you to our dedicated maintenance and ranger staff, whose hard work makes it all possible.
