The mixing of these nutrients with the organic material of the bay's salt marshes, a process assisted by the tides and the confluences of surrounding watercourses, creates a rich environment for marine life.

On top of the large amounts of shellfish, the bay is also home to thousands of waterfowl, wading birds and shorebirds all year round.

Shorebirds, in particular, undertake complete annual migration round trips of up to 20,000 miles (32,000 km), taking them to nesting areas in the Arctic and winter homes in South America, and many hundreds of them stop in Maquoit Bay to rest for the next leg of their journey.Wharton Point is a popular location for clam and shellfish harvesting.

During the Indian Wars of the 18th century, a garrison and company of soldiers were stationed here to keep communication lines open between Fort George and Maquoit Bay.

Lasting five years, the study will explore the impact of using naturally found materials, such as oyster shells and downed trees, in reducing the effects of erosion.