Great South Bay

Great South Bay, arm of the Atlantic Ocean, c.45 mi (72 km) long, between the southern shore of Long Island and offshore barrier islands, SE N.Y. With the rapid population growth along its shores, the shallow bay has suffered accelerated deposition, pollution, and rampant growth of eelgrass. Environmental efforts have sought to eliminate these problems. Major recreation areas on the bay include Jones Beach State Park and Fire Island National Seashore.

The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.

See more Encyclopedia articles on: Oceans and Continents