Ash Creek is one of Connecticut’s few remaining ecologically significant tidal estuaries within a densely populated urban area. Many urban tidal estuaries have been destroyed by development or are in such poor condition that they cannot provide habitat for migrating birds, wading birds, seed oysters, hard shell clams, and finfish; nor opportunities for valuable vegetation like saltmarsh cordgrass to grow. The presence of these species within cities not only offers residents and visitors a unique ecological experience but also provides a foothold for the future regeneration of crucial ecosystem services.

Ash Creek, in contrast, provides a tremendous number of ecological benefits. The Ash Creek tidal estuary serves as a wildlife sanctuary for nesting birds, shellfish, and finfish. It is also a breeding ground for horseshoe crabs and an important area for seed oysters and hard-shell clam beds. The estuary’s location along the Atlantic Flyway makes it a prime stopover and feeding location for migratory shorebirds along the Connecticut shoreline.