On 7/4/2026, as we have reached America’s 250th birthday, Independence Day is an exciting experience for many. Unfortunately, it poses a risk for Piping Plovers in one of the most saturated locations: Jones Beach. Every Fourth of July, Jones Beach hosts a firework show after the sun sets, attracting thousands of families to the beach.
Piping Plovers are small, sand-colored birds that have unfortunately made it onto the endangered list due to severe habitat loss, and human disturbance on beaches. These species just so happen to have their laying season all throughout July, and lay their eggs right in the sand. It’s common for families across the beach to accidentally kick a ball over the fence, or lose some other object. However, it was up to volunteers to line the fence to ensure that daily citizens wouldn’t cross the fence, as there would be a risk of the plovers’ nests being harmed. Overall, volunteers were able to enjoy the firework show, while also keeping an eye on the plover nests.
Report written by Rachel Zhang
Volunteers + Hours:
Rachel Zhang: 5 hours
Zhucheng Huang: 5 hours
Jensen Wei: 5 hours
Anna Suizu: 5 hours
Eric Wu: 5 hours
Ziyan Huang: 5 hours
Aiden Zheng: 5 hours
Jing Ruiwu: 5 hours
Jing Hanwu: 5 hours
Alan Mu: 5 hours
