East Hampton's scenic beauty is a vital part of its economy.

The Nature Conservancy has identified Peconic Bay as one of the "Last Great Places."
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Scenic landscapes are central to the identity, quality of life and economy of East Hampton, NY. Working with the NY Coastal Management Program, the Town and the Village of East Hampton hired Dodson Associates to develop a scenic inventory and analysis of its coastal landscapes. The study was based on the New York Coastline Visual Analysis procedure developed by Dodson Associates for the State of New York. The plan evaluated East Hampton’s coastal scenery and proposed conservation and growth management measures to protect this vital resource.

Using Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping and extensive field work on land, in boats and in the air, Dodson Associates developed a sophisticated data base of landuse, landcover and visual characteristics of the land. Working closely with a local advisory committee, the firm developed a visual landscape image poll that was completed by over 200 residents at meetings and on the internet. The poll results were incorporated into the final evaluation process.

Detailed GIS mapping locates scenic landscapes.
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Dodson Associates is currently assisting the Town and Village of East Hampton and the New York Coastal Management Program in the designation of the areas identified in the study as "Scenic Areas of Statewide Significance". Once designated, these areas will be protected under New York State law from activities that would unduly degrade their scenic character.

Water, terrain and unspoiled natural features create high visual character.