Since its inception in 1972, when Jamaica Bay became part of the Gateway National Recreation Area (GNRA), numerous partnerships have developed between a variety of agencies, universities, and organizations. While their activities have ranged from research and mangement to education and recreation, these groups by virtue of their mission and objectives, share a common stake in the bay's preservation and well being. Through the years, observational data has proven that the health of the bay's ecosystem has taken a negative turn. The National Park Service (NPS) is relying on its partners to help address these observations, and prescribe solutions, to ensure a healthy future for the bay.

Over the years, the bay has had its share of issues pertaining to its existence as the largest urban national park. Most notably, the Jamaica Bay Task Force (JBTF) has raised and continues to raise environmental concerns. Issues of most concern include:

• USACE Borrow Pit restoration project - is backfill material the right material?
• Does Jamaica Bay Advisory Committee (JBAC) have its pulse on long-standing issues raised at JBTF meetings?
• Dumping of sewage from JFK airport
• Invasion of the Asian Shore Crab
• An overall lack of coordination between the National Park Service, NYC government, and the community to protect/maintain the bay, because it is a national park