What makes this place special?
Battery Steele is best known as a World War II fort, but the surrounding marsh is one of the island's most important ecosystems. These salt marshes provide habitat for birds and wildlife while helping absorb floodwaters during storms. The area is protected through conservation efforts led by Peaks Island Land Preserve (PILP).

What challenges does it face?
Stronger storms and rising seas increasingly push water across Seashore Avenue and into the marsh. Changes to water flow and coastal flooding will affect both the habitat and nearby roads.

What islanders are doing
For more than 30 years, PILP and volunteers have protected over 150 acres of open space and continue efforts to manage invasive plants and preserve habitat.