Grassland has been almost continuously maintained since the advent of agriculture on Block Island. Species of note include the regionally rare Grasshopper Sparrow, Upland Sandpiper and the federally endangered American Burying Beetle. The American Burying Beetle is now found only in two places, with Block Island holding the more viable population. The state-endangered Northern Harrier relies on these grasslands for food. Block Island beaches are home to many species of plants and animals which are ecologically significant and fragile.
Beaches are interesting as ecosystems because they are in a state of constant flux.
Some changes act on a scale of days, like waves, tides and wind. Others, like storms and human use, operate on longer time scales. Plants and animals must be able to survive very dry conditions, flooding, shifting sands, and other varied elements of life in the intertidal zone, the beach, and the dunes. However, these species depend on relatively calm, stable conditions during summer. Fragile plants that are not able to resist trampling by foot or vehicle tend to grow on beaches.