forest but it is a faith that occupies the lgbt community. we went there to find out why. fire island national seashore is a national park. it's a barrier of 17 towns, 50 miles away from new york city. many of them are known for their long—standing lgbt communities. the sunken forest is a globally rare ecosystem. it's a very uncommon habitat. it's the fact that those holly trees are growing as close to the ocean and in such high density as they do right here that makes this place unique. the forest sits behind two dunes, making it appear to be below sea level. they protect the trees from ocean salt spray and allow them to grow as tall as the dunes. the sunken forest would not exist if it weren't for this delicate balance. too much salt spray could kill the forest. not enough, and the forest wouldn't have the minerals and nutrients that the ocean provides that feeds the trees.