The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM), Rhode Island Coastal Resources Management Council (CRMC), the Town of Westerly, and Save The Bay announced the conservation of 7.31 acres of coastal land on Winnapaug Pond, which lies behind a barrier beach. The move will protect coastal habitat and wildlife, enhance public access to the salt pond, and help buffer nearby communities from sea level rise in a highly developed area.  

A management plan for the property will include a project that supports public recreation on Winnapaug Pond. A restoration plan will include regrading, removal of invasive plants, planting of native vegetation, and stormwater management. The restoration plan will also include the creation of accessible and sustainable public-access features including permeable paths and a paddlecraft launch area.