Friends of Hempstead Plains

Hempstead Plains


FIRE Returns to Hempstead Plains

Controlled Burn

Click here to see the short video. 

Visit the Hemptead Plains YouTube channel to see more. 


Friends of Hempstead Plains at Nassau Community College, Inc. is dedicated to the protection, preservation, restoration and management of approximately 19 acres of College-owned land known as the Hempstead Plains through sustained and planned stewardship for educational purposes. The site is part of a 65-acre remnant of the Hempstead Plains, which is all that remains of 40,000 acres of native grassland prairie that once comprised central Nassau. It is home to 250 species of plants, including some six state rare and/or endangered species. It is a storehouse of genetic resources, a cherished part of Nassau County’s heritage, and a globally significant natural asset. This spacious natural resource is subject to rapid deterioration as the result of surrounding development, introduction of non- native plants, litter and misuse of the Hempstead Plains.

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Please email us at info@hempsteadplains.org with any questions.


 Please refer to our Volunteer Section if you are looking to help at the Preserve

Join our mailing list today!


Annual Sandplain Gerardia Count Yields a 10 Year High!

September 2022 -- On Labor Day, board members, student interns, and the Friends' Habitat Director participated in the annual Agalinis acuta survey to count existing plants at the Hempstead Plains Preserve.  The Species, Agalinis acuta is considered a "globally rare" plant and is found in only a few locations on Long Island--with the largest source being right here at the Hempstead Plains.  

Part of the reason this whole preserve is protected, is due to the presence of this listed species.  With that comes a certain responsibility though.  Here at the plains, our management of the habitat directly affects the success of this rare plant.  With proper annual mowing during the winter months, and constant removal of large woody growth, we have maintained the historic habitat for these plants, and hope that expansion to other areas occurs in the future.

This years survey included over 3,700 plants! most of which were in full bloom during this years survey.  For some context, the count in 2021 was under 1,500, and was 2,400 in 2020.  There are many factors that affect the abundance and vigor of these plants.  The plant communities within the protected Agalinis area likely have the greatest influence, and studies show the microhabitats where Agalinis acuta are found is very unique.  If you're a blossoming botanist, this is a great research opportunity!

While they are past bloom now, we hope to see you next September for another chance to see this special plant.


Become a member today!

Please follow us on Facebook & Instagram (@HempsteadPlains)
Looking to bring a group for an Education Session? For information: email info@hempsteadplains.org
Hempstead Plains

We are currently closed for the season, reopening in March 2024.

Visits are by appointment only at this time.

Email for more info: info@hempsteadplains.org


Sincere thanks to our sponsor:

Flushing Bank



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