Natural History
Grass Island is a tidal marsh area in Greenwich Harbor. Part of the area is occupied by a boat marina and sewage plant (3.45 Ac.) The surrounding habitat is a fragile marsh ecosystem protected as a managed conservation area. The phragmites or reed grass community is a shelter for wildlife. The tree/shrub border creates an edge effect and the grass fields serve as a barrier between the developed area and the tidal marsh. Salt marshes and mud flats are suitable for large numbers of animal and plant species. Dredging activities has destroyed some tidal flora.
History before Acquisition
Grass Island was first purchased in 1712 by John Howe who gave the Greenwich Harbor Island its name. At the time, the area was a tidal marsh, which was partially inundated at high tide. What use the island served is unknown.
In 1898 the Connecticut General Assembly granted Daniel S. Mead the right to construct sea walls in front of and around the island and to fill and grade the spaces within the walls. This measure was undoubtedly taken in an effort to improve the potential for development of the land. In 1916, the land was advertised for sale as property suitable for construction.
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