The east and southeast sides of Big Jay drain into Jay Brook, which joins the South Branch Trout River in Montgomery to form the Trout River.

The southwest and western sides of Big Jay drain into Hannah Clark Brook, and thence into the Trout.

The northern end of Big Jay drains into Black Falls Brook, and thence into the Trout.

In the summer of 2007 two men cut an illegal ski trail several hundred yards down the eastern side of the protected habitat.

[3] Hikers and skiers have been encouraged to stay away from the scar caused by the vandalism so that the area can recover.