Supporting healthy and resilient coastal communities and habitats
The Narragansett Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is one of 30 National Estuarine Research Reserves located around the country. Established to provide long-term protection of coastal lands so they can serve as platforms for research, education and recreation. The Reserve is supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and is part of the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
The Reserve manages 63% of Prudence Island and its surrounding waters. Visit our Learning Center and explore popular hiking trails, fishing spots, bird watching, and more.
We use the best available science to maintain and restore healthy, productive, and resilient ecosystems throughout Narragansett Bay and its surrounding waters.
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News and Events
2026 Wood Steward Program
As of Monday, Jan 19 – Firewood Available
The contractor will still be accessing the large wood pile near the school with heavy equipment. Please remain away from the wood piles until Monday.
On Monday, Jan 19, Island residents can sign the Wood Steward Agreement and the DEM Waiver and may then gather firewood. Documents about the project, including the documents to sign are available at NBNERR.org and at the NBNERR office.
Everyone working with the wood must have a signed Waiver and a signed Agreement with them while at the site. NBNERR staff will check in and collect those from you to keep on file. There is additional important information in the documents here.
Wood chips will be available in the coming weeks.
Contact Jon Mitchell, NBNERR Stewardship Coordinator jonathan.mitchell@dem.ri.gov or call (401)683-7369
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