Norman J Levy

Hidden behind the Town of Hempstead s sanitation facilities of Merrick Road, the Norman J. Levy Park and Preserve — colloquially known as Merrick Mountain — is the epitome of a bustling nature preserve. Its 155-foot summit is the highest on Long Island s South Shore, ofering hikers, runners and walkers panoramic views of Merrick and beyond. Long Island s beaches, the Meadowbrook Parkway, and New York City skyline are all visible at its highest peak.

The park, once the Merrick land ll, ofers three miles worth of trails, a kayak launch, shing piers and more. Named after longtime Merrick resident and environmental advocate state Sen. Norman Levy, the park has been open and maintained by the Town of Hempstead since 2000, and is a sanctuary for native plants and wildlife — all of which can been seen swarming the park on a daily basis.

A self-sustaining natural fortress, the park s most unique residents are a herd of Nigerian dwarf goats. Kept in a pen at the park s entrance during the day, the goats are released at night and the

Tim Baker Herald photos op photo ne of Merrick s ost beloved attractions is the or an evy Park and Preserve Its foot su it is the highest on ong Island s South Shore and o ers panora ic views of Merrick and beyond

town uses them as an environmentally friendly way to control weeds and brush overgrowth. According to the Hempstead town website, the goats are the park s pets-workers-employees that complement the mission of the nature preserve. It s a vision of what can be done when people recognize the importance of their environment, Town Supervisor Don Clavin said of the park during a recent Earth Day. Designated by the town as Forever Wild in 2006, Levy Park is open yearround, although hours vary based on the season.

op photo evy Preserve has three iles worth of trails as well as a kayak launch and shing piers

otto photo he preserve is ho e to igerian dwarf goats that act as a for of natural weed control ften they are found inside their pen at the preserve s entrance but occasionally they ll take a walk on the paths as well