As all the Fire Island Conservation Projects are self-funded at this point, we use a portion of the profits generated from our private lodges to assist with the conservation projects, and tourism will always play a key role in the sustainability of these projects. Apart from creating a presence of outsiders in the more remote areas that will assist with the prevention of illegal and unsustainable harvesting, it is also a great way for tourists to experience these areas for themselves and to better understand the need for conservation. Eco-tourism also creates more employment opportunities for the local population.