Woven by tidal creeks the brackish waters of Monie Bay support a wealth of flora and fauna. Dense beds of widgeon grass thrive in the creeks and shallow bay. Salt marsh cordgrass dominates the low marsh, while big cordgrass, saltmeadow hay, and black needlerush grow in the higher areas.

The 3,426 acre Monie Bay component is part of the Deal Island Wildlife Management Area which attracts thousands of waterfowl along with bald eagles, osprey and northern harriers.

Research and monitoring are high priorities at this site due to its pristine condition. Of particular interest are studies assessing nutrient loadings from various land use practices and the measurement of nutrient uptake by marsh communities.