Jamaica Bay is a region rich in its cultural history. Because it exists on the outskirts of Brooklyn, it is often a forgotten crop of land. By simply looking at a satellite photo of the area, one can tell how it’s one of the only areas in New York that remains relatively untouched by urban landscaping. Therefore, it also acts as a buffer zone for extreme weather situations such as Hurricane Sandy. The marshes soak up water and act as solid ground to slow a hurricane’s path before it hits urban areas.

What the article on ethnographic history also reveals about the area is that its a vital area for immigrants, especially since it contains affordable housing. Studies over the past decades have shown how the area was home to many cultures, including various sects of Jews, HIndus, and now Caribbean and Latin American cultures. It’s interesting how an area can change so much, and attract such a diversity of culture. One of the major reasons is because the area is very natural, with much biodiversity, and is bordered by water. The study describes how water can be sacramental to many religions, including Hinduism.

In addition, the area is economical in terms of food! Many people fish in the area, and are able to sustain themselves and even make profits from what they catch. It’s unlikely to find such subsistence practices being performed in New York City, but this is one of the places where they can take place.

Jamaica Bay is not without its problems, though. Although the watershed’s population has increased, its average income has gone down. It will be interesting to watch how the area will proceed to develop over the future years.