Legend has it that the shores of the Great South Bay were once covered in clam shells.  Thirty years ago, these blue waters provided some 700,000 bushels of clams annually, and the marshy shores surrounding it were home to migratory birds, marine animals, and unique plants and grasses. 

Today, the Great South Bay faces a variety of steep challenges.  But, if the Conservancy and its partners have their way, this 45-mile stretch of marine habitat will once again teem with life.

That’s why The Nature Conservancy on Long Island is proud to announce a new partnership with long-time Bellport resident, Isabella Rossellini.  Rossellini’s passion for shellfish restoration and for the beauty of her adopted Long Island home is nothing short of remarkable.

View Isabella's PSA for The Nature Conservancy:

A Personal Statement

I first came to Bellport in 1982, when I was hired by Lancome.  During the hot New York summers, I would often take the train or a taxi to the village, stay at the Inn, and spend all day at the beach.  It was a great way to escape the city.

Eventually I rented a home and later bought a cottage. I have always loved that such a beautiful natural place could be so close to New York City.

When I first arrived, the bay was always full of flat clam boats and you could buy clams from the fisherman as they came to shore. But in the 25 years since I have been on Long Island, I have seen the gradual disappearance of the fisherman.

Over the years, more and more people have moved to Bellport. Cottages have become mansions, farms have been transformed into vast lots, holding 20 or 30 new homes.

Like a lot of people, at first I didn't think of the impact this development and change in economy could have on our natural environment. But once I became aware that our bay is losing fish, clams, and oysters, I felt compelled to do something - especially because I was inadvertantly part of the problem.

I love clams and spaghetti. I love going crabbing or clamming with the kids. But those aren't the reasons I want to save the bay. I defend the Great South Bay because I defend my real estate investment. I defend my quality of life - and that of others. I defend the reason I came to live on Long Island. I fight for the Great South Bay because I fight for the the health of my environment and that of the natural world.

--Isabella Rossellini

Nature picture credits (top to bottom, left to right): Photo © The Nature Conservancy (Great South Bay); Photo © John Pinderhughes (Rossellini).