Saltwater flows into this beautiful tidal estuary, a place where the ocean water mixes with fresh water, creating a habitat for a great wealth of life, from algae to marsh birds. Nonquit Pond and the tides of the Sakonnet River course through the property and perpetuate the water cycles. Unlike other area marshes, Fogland remains primarily in its natural state because it was not drained for mosquito control.

There are no actual trails through Fogland Marsh, but you can walk along the beach for a quarter of a mile. If you venture deeper into the marsh, wear old shoes, and please step delicately. For your own safety, consult the daily tidal chart before venturing too far out into the salt marsh.

The ebb and flow of salt water create a delicate salinity balance upon which the salt marsh’s entire ecosystem depends. The frequency and duration of tidal flooding regulate vegetation. Salt-tolerant plants such as salt marsh hay and sea lavender (no collecting please) grow in the low areas; while shrubs such as marsh elder grade into the upland borders. Seaside goldenrod, beach pea, sea lavender, and dune grass find their home on the narrow dune.

An abundance of herons and egrets stalk the flats and creeks, and the northern harrier frequently forages here.