The P. T. Marvell Preserve is part of a shoreline complex that includes conservation lands and open space at South Shore and Goosewing Beaches and protected properties at Tuniper’s and Quicksand Ponds to a total of at least 130 acres. This shoreline complex has been called one of the most scenic and undisturbed coastal areas in Rhode Island, and it provides significant refuge for migratory shorebirds, waterfowl, and songbirds, and for shellfish and finfish. The property includes important maritime woodland, coastal thicket and coastal salt pond, and upland meadow.