Narragansett Bay
Geography
Narragansett Bay is a bay and estuary on the north side of Rhode Island Sound. Covering an area of 147 square miles (380 km2), the Bay forms New England's largest estuary, which functions as an expansive natural harbor and includes a small archipelago. The Bay's major tributaries are the Providence River, the Taunton River, and the Pawtuxet River. The whole Bay's watershed covers 1,634 square miles (4,230 km2), which includes 60% of Rhode Island's total land mass.
History
The Narragansett Bay has a rich history dating back to the pre-colonial era. The area surrounding the Bay was originally inhabited by the Narragansett people, an Algonquian Native American tribe. The Bay was named after the tribe, and the word "Narragansett" means "People of the Small Point". The tribe had a well-developed society and a sophisticated culture, with the Bay playing a crucial role in their daily life and economy.
Ecology
Narragansett Bay is a ria, which is a drowned river valley that remains open to the sea. The Bay is home to more than 60 species of fish and several species of mammals. The Bay's watershed provides habitat for 85 species of birds, making it an important area for bird conservation. The Bay is also home to several species of shellfish, including the Blue Crab, American Lobster, and Eastern Oyster.
Economy
The Bay plays a significant role in the economy of Rhode Island. It supports a wide range of economic activities, including commercial and recreational fishing, tourism, and shipping. The Bay is also a major source of jobs in the region, with many people employed in industries such as fishing, boat building, and tourism.
Conservation
Efforts to conserve and protect the Narragansett Bay have been ongoing for several decades. These efforts are primarily focused on reducing pollution, protecting and restoring habitats, and managing fisheries sustainably. Several organizations, such as the Narragansett Bay Research Reserve and the Save The Bay, are actively involved in these conservation efforts.