Plum Island, Barrier island in northeastern Massachusetts, United States.
Plum Island is a barrier island along the Atlantic coast of Massachusetts, featuring sandy beaches, salt marshes, and coastal dunes covered with beach plum shrubs. The island stretches for several miles and displays a diverse coastal ecosystem with varying natural habitats.
The island was documented in 1616 by Captain John Smith during his mapping of the New England coast. This early record marks it as a notable point in early European exploration of North America.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge spans 4,700 acres of the island, providing protection for over 300 species of resident and migratory birds.
Access to the island is via a single road with a drawbridge from Newburyport. Parking areas throughout the region offer access to different beach sections and walking trails.
Wild beach plum shrubs grow throughout the dunes and produce edible fruits that visitors often overlook. This natural fruit production is a rare feature along Atlantic coasts and enriches the local plant life.
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