Seven Mile Island was once a juniper forest occupied solely by the Native American Leni Lenape Tribe, but over nearly two hundred years it developed into Avalon and Stone Harbor as much of the natural landscape disappeared and was transformed into homes with pools and non-native gardens. This massive change contributed to the loss of habitat for vital endemic flora and fauna. A Native Plant Demonstration Garden was created as a joint venture between the Borough, its Public Works Department, the Garden Club, and the Stone Harbor Property Owners' Association to support the future health of the island. Using indigenous plants in coastal environments helps conserve water, which is important because excessive water use can deplete the freshwater aquifer beneath Seven Mile Island and allow saltwater intrusion that contaminates drinking water and harms local ecosystems. Native plants and wildflowers also provide essential nectar and shelter for birds, crabs, fish, bees, and insects, and healthy gardens with appropriate plant species and abundant pollinators can reduce the need for pest control and fertilizers by supporting beneficial insects and flourishing without harmful chemicals.