North and South Rivers Watershed Association

Spring Clean-up Opportunities around the South Shore
2025-04-19 08:00 - 2025-05-03 14:00 (America/New_York)
Beach Cleanup at Hingham Bathing Beach! – Saturday, April, 19 – Join Project 351 from from 1:00 to 3:00pm for a cleanup at Hingham’s Bathing Beach. Project 351 engages high school-aged youth in service projects around Massachusetts. They will be running the cleanup at Hingham’s Bathing Beach and are looking for helpers!
Keep Marshfield Clean Day – Saturday, April 19
9:00 am – 12:00 pm – Marshfield, MA • For more information, email for more information or call 781-834-5575 ext. 4.
Keep Pembroke Beautiful! 2025 Community Clean-up Day – Saturday April, 26
Pembroke Community Center. From 9:00-11:00am. Registration begins at 8:30am.
Hull: Hulluva Clean Up Day – Saturday April, 26
9am – 1pm – Trash bags and gloves will be provided- and only those trash bags provided will be collected. Email for more information and to register.
Hull: Weir River and Straits Pond Clean Up Day – Saturday April, 26
9am – 12pm – Picnic with Nona’s Ice Cream for Volunteers at Atlantic Street Playground, Hull at 12 pm
Weymouth: Community Clean Up – NEW DATE – Saturday, May 3 • 9 am – 12:00 pm
Scituate’s Ship Shape Day! – Saturday, May 3
From 9:00am to 11:00am. Meet at Scituate Harbor. Clean-up supplies available at Town Hall.
Braintree Beautification Day & 1st Herring Run Celebration – Saturday, May 3 • kickoff at 8:30am at Sunset Lake. Herring Run celebration at the newly constructed Monatiquot River Restoration Project.
Norwell Trash Bash – Saturday, May 3 (rain date May 4)
From 9:00am to 11:00am. Clean-up supplies available at Town Hall.
Hanover Spring Cleaning – Saturday, May 3 and Sunday, May 4 – Help us clean up clean before the trash is covered by grass and bushes! Work on your own schedule.

Know Your Local Waters: Marshfield
2025-04-29 13:00 - 2025-06-10 14:30
Explore Marshfield’s rivers! Join Kezia Bacon and Brian Taylor for a series of 6 walks. Select Tuesdays in April, May and June (1-2:30pm). Part of Marshfield Senior Center’s Lifelong Learning Program. Registration begins April 15th. First walk is April 29. For more information, call 781-834-5581.

NSRWA Walking Club - Jacobs Pond Conservation Area
2025-05-10 10:00 - 11:30
NSRWA Walking Club – Jacobs Pond Conservation Area
Saturday, May 10
10:00-11:30am
Please join the NSRWA Walking Club on May 10th from 10 to 11:30 a.m as we meet to explore the Jacobs Pond Conservation Area. This site features 189 acres of Norwell Conservation land with an extensive trail system around the north, east, and west sides of the 60-acre pond.
The area itself is known as Assinippi. The name, given by early native inhabitants, means “rocky water.” There was a Native American settlement here prior to European contact, and there is a Native American burial ground across the street at the Union Cemetery.
The pond was originally called Snapper (or Snapper) Pond. “Snapper/Snappet” was a play on the word “Assinippi.” Later it was named for the Jacobs family, whose farmhouse, barn, and hay fields are located across Jacobs Lane (now overseen by Norwell’s Conservation and Historic Commissions).
From the Jacobs Lane parking area, a dirt road leads to the pond and the trails. The trails are mostly dirt, but there are also some boardwalks that traverse wetlands. Some of the trails are very rooty. Along the western side of the pond, the trail follows an esker ridge.The headwaters for Third Herring Brook are located north of Jacobs Pond, in the southern portion of Valley Swamp. Third Herring Brook exits the pond from the southern side, at the dam. The brook forms the border between Norwell and Hanover, and flows into the North River downstream of the old stone bridge on Washington Street.
Click here for directions.
Click here for a trail map.
REGISTER HERE
While we love dogs, NSRWA’s walks are dog-free in consideration for all participants. Please leave your pooches at home.
The Walking Club is looking for guest hosts. If you would like to lead a walk on a local trail that you love, please contact Theresa Delahunt at volunteercoordinator@nsrwa.org, or visit our website.

NSRWA Ambassador Training
2025-05-22 16:00 - 18:00 | NSRWA Offices, 214 South Street, Norwell, MA, 02061, United States
Thursday, May 22, 4-6pm – free
at NSRWA Office, 214 South Street, Norwell
Help raise awareness! NSRWA seeks volunteers to assist with our 2025 table events and presentations. We’re offering a free training session on Thursday, May 22 from 4-6pm. Join us and learn how to represent NSRWA at such events as Pembroke Earth Day, South Shore EcoFest, and Hanover Day. We’ll also offer guidance on giving presentations at local libraries and senior centers.
REGISTER HERE

Indian Head River Day 2025 - Guided Hike and Kayak Paddles
2025-05-24 09:00 - 13:30 | Hanover Public Launch, 2 Indian Head Dr., Hanover, 02339
Join the Indian Head River Coalition (a partnership between the NSRWA, Wildlands Trust, and the Towns of Hanover, Pembroke, Hanson, and Plymouth County) as we celebrate this amazing river and its surrounding land. Take part in a guided hike, or kayak paddle, or BOTH! Schedule and registration pages are listed below.
Embark on a land or water adventure as we explore a unique and diverse habitat steeped in local history. Amazing flora and fauna, freshwater tidal marsh, wild rice, and migratory herring are all some of what can be found in and around the Indian Head River. We will also be given access to enter a historic mill on the Indian Head River! Discover why the Indian Head River Coalition has worked to preserve and protect this gem of the South Shore.
Meet at the Hanover Public Launch: 2 Indian Head Dr, Hanover, MA
Schedule:
9:00-11:45am – Guided Hike with Wildlands Trust – Registration Link to Hike HERE
9:30-11:00am – Guided Kayak Paddle with the NSRWA #1 – Register for Kayak Paddle #1 HERE
12:00-1:30pm – Guided Kayak Paddle with the NSRWA #2* – Register for Kayak Paddle #2 HERE
For the kayak trips: bring your own vessel or borrow one of the NSRWA’s single kayaks. Ages 12 years and up ONLY. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Slow moving tidal water, previous kayak experience recommended.
*Guided Kayak Paddle #2 will depart once the hikers have returned, allowing time for folks to attend both the hike and Kayak Paddle #2.

History of the North River Presentation
2025-06-02 11:00 - 17:00
Monday, June 2
11:00am – FREE
Join NSRWA for an engaging slideshow presentation on the history of the North River. It’s happening Monday, June 2nd, at 11am at the Pembroke Community Center (Senior Services), 128 Center Street.
For more information, contact Melissa Donahue – 781-829-3659

Sustaining the Stripers
2025-06-02 19:00 - 20:00
Sustaining the Stripers
Monday, June 2
7:00-8:00pm
Zoom Webinar
Learn about the current state of the Striped Bass population and why proper catch and release of the species is so important to its long term health with expert Ben Gahagan, Mass DMF Recreational Fisheries Program Leader. Ben will share the latest science on the status of the species and the best techniques for catch and release to improve the future health of the fishery. Please join us to get ready for the catch and release South Shore Striper Tournament and your fishing season.
Check out these excellent resources:

MA DMF Citizen Science results page
Keep Fish Wet Stripers in Our Hands Materials
3 Striped Bass Tactics videos

REGISTER HERE FOR THE WEBINAR.
Register for the 2025 Striper Tournament.

Results of MassDMF Citizen Science Project
Mortality vs. Lure Hook Type
Mortality vs Tackle Type. Graphs courtesy of MA DMF.

2025 South Shore Striper Tournament
2025-06-06 17:00 - 2025-06-08 12:00
Join NSRWA for a fun weekend of catch and release fishing!

$3,000 in cash and additional prizes for winning anglers and catch and release videos!
June 6 @ 5:00 pm – June 8 @ 12:00 pm
Adult entries are $75, Children 12 and under are $15, Calcutta is $20
(Day of entries are $80 for adults)
All kids entered will get a $25 goodie bag.
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER.
Pick Up Location and Times
Preregister online or at the locations below, and pick up your packet at the following:

Belsan Bait & Tackle
4 Brook Street, Scituate, MA
Friday, June 6 – 8:00am-6:00pm
Saturday, June 7 – 8:00am-12:00 noon
Goose Hummock Shops
15 Rte. 6A, Orleans, MA
Friday, June 6 – 1:00-6:00pm
FISH Northeast
68 Shops at 5 Way, Plymouth
Friday, June 6 – 11:00am-6:00pm
Saturday, June 7 – 8:00am-12:00pm

Have a measuring stick from a previous South Shore Striper Tournament? Bring it with you, get a 2025 sticker, and become eligible for a prize drawing.
We encourage you to submit videos of you releasing your catch as part of your entry. Release videos will be entered to win additional prizes.
Check the 2025 Leaderboard
Watch Our Sustaining the Stripers Webinar
Click Here to Sponsor our 2025 Striper Tournament
Join us for the awards presentation at Belsan Bait & Tackle on Sunday, June 8 at 2:00pm. A Zoom link will also be sent out to all participants.

Yoga at the River’s Edge 2025
2025-06-07 08:30 - 2025-09-13 09:45
Outdoor Gentle Yoga classes take place at various locations along the North and South Rivers. Saturdays, June 7 through September 13 (8:30-9:45 am) and select Wednesdays, June 18 through September 3 (mostly 6:30-7:45pm, with one exception).
This is the 29th season of our popular outdoor Gentle Yoga program!
REGISTRATION

Advance registration and payment required for each class/$16 per class
Participants under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

REGISTER HERE
CLASS LOCATIONS

Rexhame Beach (in the dunes by the South River), at the end of Standish Street, Marshfield
Couch Beach (via Couch Cemetery), 629 Union Street, Marshfield
South River Park (lower section), 2148 Ocean Street, Marshfield
JPH Organization at Ferry Hill (formerly YWCA Marshfield), 76 Ferry Hill Road, Marshfield
Driftway Conservation Park, 250 Driftway, Scituate

PARKING

Rexhame classes: Parking is free with a Marshfield Beach Sticker. All others must pay $1 to park, and depart immediately after class.
All other classes: Parking is free

WEATHER CANCELLATIONS

Classes are cancelled on rainy days. The decision will be made 1-2 hours before scheduled start time. All registered participants will be contacted via email.

SAFETY

For classes at Couch Beach, plan ahead for an approximately 0.3-mile walk over uneven terrain

WHAT TO BRING
Please bring a yoga mat. You may also like to have a blanket to place under your mat to accommodate your outstretched arms and legs. Dress in layers — the temperature can change quickly as the sun rises or as clouds move in. Other supplies to consider: drinking water, bug repellant, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses.
REGISTER HERE
SEPTEMBER
Wednesday, September 3 • 6-7:30pm: Kezia Bacon at Rexhame Dunes, Marshfield (Note earlier time)
Saturday, September 6 • 8:30-9:45am: Katherine Twigg at Rexhame Dunes, Marshfield
Saturday, September 13 • 8:30-9:45am: Kezia Bacon at Couch Beach, Marshfield

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook • Instagram
QUESTIONS?
Email Program Director Kezia Bacon at yoga@nsrwa.org
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Listen To Our Segment on WATD’s Boomer Being
In Spring 2024, NSRWA’s Yoga Program Director Kezia Bacon appeared on WATD 95.9 FM’s Boomer Being program to talk about Yoga at the River’s Edge, in a 5-minute segment. You can hear it right here.
Check Us Out on “Give Me The Good News!”
In July 2023, Yoga at the River’s Edge was featured in a segment of Harbor Media’s “Give Me The Good News,” produced by Brian Sullivan. Learn about our program’s history, meet our founder, and catch some glimpses of an actual Yoga at the River’s Edge class. All in 4 short minutes! Click here to view.
——-
Yoga Videos Available!
Thanks to NSRWA Correspondent and Yoga at the River’s Edge Founder Kezia Bacon for providing these virtual yoga sessions. It’s time to roll out your mat and give yourself some stretching, breathing, and relaxation!
Gentle Yoga Sequence
On YouTube
Guided Loving Kindness Meditation
On YouTube
Guided Breathing Meditation
On YouTube
Guided Count of Four Meditation
On YouTube
Dynamic Yoga for Kids and Adults
On YouTube

Timing the Tides Workshop
2025-06-17 18:30 - 19:30 | Scituate Public Library, 85 Branch Street, Scituate, MA, 02066, United States
Want to go paddling on the rivers this summer but aren’t sure how to time the tides, where to put in or what the best itineraries are? It can be a little intimidating – but with a little guidance you can enjoy one of the most beautiful natural gems on the South Shore!
This workshop is designed to provide all you need to know to navigate the North and South Rivers safely and find out some of the important nature and history you will see while out on your adventure. We will provide a virtual tour of the rivers – where to put in, how to time the tides at each put in, some easy, medium and hardcore itineraries and some points of interest along those itineraries. This presentation will help you start to explore the nature in your own back yard!
This event is free and open to the public but registration through the library is required. The workshop will be held at the Scituate Public Library, 85 Branch St Scituate MA 02066

2025 Great River Race
2025-07-06 09:00 - 13:00
July 5, 2025 Notice from the North and South Rivers Watershed Association
Sunday July 6, 2025 Great River Race Cancelled Due to Heat Advisory
Due to the Heat Advisory and after careful consideration of risks of heat illness to our racers, first responders and our amazing volunteers who help run the race we are cancelling this year’s Great River Race. In past years, even without heat advisory notices, we have had racers and volunteers experience heat related illnesses and we have learned from that experience. We are all disappointed, as many months of planning go into this event, but the safety of our volunteers, staff, racers and first responders comes first.
This event is not possible to reschedule due to the tide and logistics involved. There are no refunds for this event and your entry fee will support our environmental nonprofit mission. We appreciate your understanding and your support of our nonprofit environmental mission to educate and engage people to protect our waters.
You can pick up your commemorative Great RIver Race t-shirt at the Norwell Bridge St Boat Ramp/Starting Line between 7 – 9 am Sunday morning or stop by the NSRWA office at 214 South St Norwell Monday 1-5 pm, Wednesday 9 am – 3 pm, or Thursday 9 am – 3 pm. If you cannot pick it up please joe@nsrwa.org know and we can mail it to you.
Stay hydrated and cool during this heat advisory, check on your neighbors and friends and we hope to see you at next year’s Great River Race.
Thank you again to all for your understanding and support.
Samantha Woods
Executive Director NSRWA and GRR Race Director
samantha@nsrwa.org
____________________________________________
Come join us on 4th of July weekend and paddle on one of the most beautiful rivers in Massachusetts. Help us celebrate the 35th year for the Great River Race on the beautiful North River. This awesome 7.5 mile race starts at Bridge Street Canoe Launch in Norwell and ends at Indian Head Drive in Hanover. Click here to see race map.
Get competitive and race your friends and enjoy this outstanding view of the river! We time the race for paddlers to ride the incoming tide, but all paddlers must complete the race course in under 3 hours in order to avoid the tide turning. We recommend this for people who have some experience paddling and who are in good physical condition as the total mileage is 8.5 miles to the take out. All ages welcome. (Participants age 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult). Any type of non-motorized watercraft is eligible to enter the race – even stand-up paddle boards! There is also the “Best Decorated Boat or Boater” division for the less serious, but creative paddler.
All paddlers must wear a life jacket at all times while on the river and there is absolutely no alcohol allowed during the race or you will be disqualified.
Funds raised through the Great River Race support the NSRWA’s environmental education and outdoor programs. Our programs are the perfect way for children and adults to fall in love with and protect local natural treasures, especially our waters. Help us to get 2,500 children and adults outdoors to explore nature and have an experience they’ll never forget!
COST
This year’s Great River Race is $55 for the first participant per craft if preregistered by Thursday, July 3 at 12:00 noon. After that time, late registration will be $75 for the first participant per craft day of. Each additional participant on the same craft is $10. FundRacers race FREE when they raise $150 or more. Each registration includes the collectible Great River Race T-shirt. Additional T-shirts will be available for purchase. In the event of a severe weather cancellation there will be no rain date or refund, you will receive your collectible event T-shirt, and the registration fee will be a donation to support environmental education. All participants (including minors under 14 years of age) must have a signed waiver to participate in the race. The waiver is in the registration form.
Racers get:

A FREE ice cream coupon for JC’s Dairy in Hanover ($4 Value)
A custom collectible 2025 Great River Race T-shirt
A FREE beer for those participants over 21 years of age, or FREE kombucha from IndieFerm
Free admission to the afterparty on July 6 including food, ice cream, games, and more!

Make a Donation to Support Our Environmental Education and Outdoor Programs
Become a Corporate Sponsor

Marsh Habitat Exploration - Guided South River Paddle - SOLD OUT
2025-08-15 09:00 - 13:00 | 1880 Ocean St., Marshfield, MA 02050, 1880 Ocean St., MA, 02050, United States
Marsh Habitat Exploration – Guided South River Paddle
Friday, August 15
9:00am – 1:00pm
Kayaks and van shuttle service included!
Additional time available at the end to picnic, swim and/or explore Rexhame Beach
Join the NSRWA on a guided kayak one-way-trip paddle of the South River. We will begin up river at the Keville Footbridge and paddle down stream to Rexhame Beach. Van shuttle service will pick us up at Rexhame Beach and return us to the launch. This trip will explore several miles of the South River including salt marsh habitat teaming with unique plants and wildlife. Great for photography and birding! Chances to see marsh wren and saltmarsh sparrows! Participants will have the opportunity to explore, picnic, and swim in the South River and Rexhame Beach upon the completion of the paddle. We will also discuss South River timing of the tides to help participants gain confidence in planning a river trip of the own!
NSRWA will provide the paddles, PFDs, and single person recreational kayaks.
This is a rare NSRWA offering with limited capacity. Don’t miss out! This is a great opportunity for those who signed up for the Great River Race.
We will be paddling with the help of a tidal current. However, previous paddling experience is required as this trip will cover nearly 4 miles and require mild strength and stamina. Participants will be asked to help carry the boats roughly 150 yards to the launch site, as well as a shorter distance at the ending site. Youth ages 12 and up and welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE
Precise meeting locations and any additional details will be provide upon registration.

A Paddle Back in Time - Guided North River Kayak Paddle - SOLD OUT
2025-08-22 09:00 - 13:00 | Marshfield Canoe Launch, Marshfield Canoe Launch/Brooks Tilden Shipyard, Marshfield, MA, United States
A Paddle Back in Time – Guided North River Kayak Paddle
Friday, August 22
9:00am – 1:00pm
Marshfield Canoe Launch
$40 – Kayaks and van shuttle service included
Join the NSRWA on a guided kayak paddle of the North River from Union St. Bridge to Couch Beach and return. We will paddle a lovely section of the North River estuary, stopping at Couch Beach with time to explore, picnic, and swim, then return to Union St. with the tide. We will paddle up river with the tide, then return after the tide flips. A fantastic trip with amazing natural scenery and local history, including several historical North River Ship Yard sites. Great for birding and photography too. We will also discuss the timing of the North River tides to help participants gain confidence in planning a river trip of their own!
NSRWA will provide the paddles, PFDs, and single person recreational kayaks.
This is a rare NSRWA offering with limited capacity. Don’t miss out. This is a great opportunity for those who signed up for the Great River Race!
We will be paddling with the help of a tidal current. However, previous paddling experience is required, as this trip will cover nearly 3 miles and require mild strength and stamina. Participants will be asked to help carry the boats a very short distance to the put in. Youth ages 12 and up and welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult.
PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Gulf River Kayak Paddle and Mordecai Lincoln Property Tour
2025-09-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Mordecai Lincolin Historic Site, 68 Mordecai Lincoln Rd, Scituate, MA, 02066, United States
Join NSRWA Educator Brian Taylor and local historian Jim Glinski for a special tour of the Mordecai Lincoln Property in Scituate. The event will include a hike on the property’s trail along Bound Brook and the Gulf River, a kayak paddle on the Gulf River, and a tour of the 17th century main house.
This is part-kayak and part-walking tour of the Gulf River and Mordecai Lincoln Historical Site. The NSRWA will have single kayaks available for use.
This will be a relatively short and easy kayak paddle exploring the Gulf River, however previous kayak experience is required.
Register HERE

NSRWA Walking Club - Wompatuck State Park in Hingham
2025-09-13 10:00 - 11:30
Walking Club Returns!
Wompatuck State Park in Hingham
Saturday, September 13
10:00-11:30am
Join guest hosts Steve Gammon and Doug Luoma as we explore Wompatuck State Park in Hingham on Saturday, September 13 from 10:00-11:30. Steve and Doug are members of the Friends of Wompatuck non-profit organization and have intimate knowledge of the park and its history. Steve was the park supervisor at Wompatuck until 2015 while Doug is an active member of the Norwell Conservation Commission.
The park encompasses 3,500 acres across four towns; Hingham, Cohasset, Scituate and Norwell, with 12 miles of paved trails and another 40 miles of forest paths. Accord Brook passes though part of the park flowing through Triphammer pond on its way to the Weir River. The Aaron River flows through another part of the park into the Aaron Reservoir on its way to the Gulf River.
Prior to Massachusetts taking possession of Wompatuck in 1966, the US government operated the Hingham Naval Ammunition Depot Annex there throughout World War II and the Korean Conflict. Today the park is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Because of the vast forested acreage, the park supports a diverse population of wildlife and is traditionally known as a great spring birding destination.
Plan on a walk over both paved and unpaved trails with slight elevation gain in some areas.
While we love dogs. NSRWA’s walks are dog-free in consideration for all participants. Please leave your furry loved ones at home.
We will meet at visitor center parking lot on Union St. in Hingham.
Directions: Parking at the Wompatuck State Park Visitor Center on Union St. in Hingham. Look for the NSRWA Event sign.
Click here for Trail Map.
REGISTER HERE
The Walking Club is looking for guest hosts. If you would like to lead a walk on a local trail that you love, please contact Kezia at kezia@nsrwa.org.
Steve’s Bio
Steve French is an adult focused educator for Mass Audubon covering southeastern Massachusetts. Prior to joining Mass Audubon Steve was a volunteer for over 10 years at the North River sanctuary in Marshfield. During that time Steve and his wife Pam owned and operated the Wild Birds Unlimited store in Hanover where they introduced people to the joys of feeding and watching birds. Steve has been leading presentations, walks and field schools all over the southeast utilizing his extensive knowledge of wildlife and regional history. His passions include nature, hiking and kayaking.

Wild Rice Paddle 2025. MOVED TO SATURDAY Sept 20!
2025-09-20 10:00 - 11:30 | Hanover Public Launch, 2 Indian Head Dr., Hanover, 02339
Wild Rice Paddle 2025
Saturday, September 20
10:00-11:30am
Join us on a relaxing autumn paddle around the Upper Reaches of the North River. The confluence of the Indian Head River and Herring Brook forms the upper reaches of the North River. This creates a lovely freshwater tidal marsh, one of only a handful in the state. Early fall colors and cooler weather make for a great time to enjoy the beauty that this section of river has to offer.
Wild rice (Zizana sp.), also known as Indian Rice is found on the slower flowing portions of the North River and Herring Brook River. It is a favorite food for many of the wildfowl that frequent the waterway.
We will meet at 10:00am at the Hanover Canoe Launch on Saturday, September 20. If you are bringing your own vessel, please try to arrive early so you have time to unload and be on the water by 10:00am. Register with one of the links below. Please choose the appropriate link based on whether you have your own vessel (free), or need to borrow one of ours ($20).
Register to BRING YOUR OWN VESSEL – FREE
Register to BORROW ONE OF OUR KAYAKS – Single Kayak, Paddle, and PFD included. – $20

NSRWA Walking Club - Knapp Town Forest/North Hill Marsh in Duxbury
2025-10-11 10:00 - 11:30
NSRWA Walking Club
Knapp Town Forest/North Hill Marsh in Duxbury
Saturday, October 11
10:00-11:30am
Join Walking Club Coordinator Steve French and Guest Host Doug Lowry as we explore Knapp Town Forest and North Hill Marsh Sanctuary in Duxbury on Saturday, October 11 from 10:00-11:30am. Doug is a senior teacher naturalist for Mass Audubon with extensive knowledge of local conservation lands around the South Shore. One of his many passions is to connect people with the natural world around us and to share insights into what is happening seasonally in nature. As always, his walks are fun and full of insights and humor.
Knapp Town Forest and North Hill Marsh are located within Duxbury’s 1000-acre greenbelt. The sanctuary itself is about 146 acres, 90 of which are a pond and wetland surrounded by an oak and pine forest. You can often find different species of ducks, great blue herons, kingfishers and tree swallows around the pond. It is also a great place to look for salamanders, frogs and turtles. The 80-acre Knapp Town Forest surrounds the sanctuary with many interconnected trails. All trails throughout the greenbelt are maintained by the Town of Duxbury.
Plan on a walk over forest trails with varying elevation changes.
While we love dogs. NSRWA’s walks are dog-free in consideration for all participants. Please leave your furry loved ones at home.
Directions: Parking is available behind Duxbury Town Hall, 878 Tremont St (Rt. 3A) in Duxbury. Look for the NSRWA Event sign.
Click here for Trail Map.
The Walking Club is looking for guest hosts. If you would like to lead a walk on a local trail that you love, please contact Kezia Bacon at kezia@nsrwa.org, or visit our website at https://www.nsrwa.org/get-involved/
REGISTER HERE

Meditative Walk at Chapman’s Landing
2025-10-13 14:00 - 16:00
Meditative Walk at Chapman’s Landing – CANCELED DUE TO WEATHER
With Kezia Bacon
Monday, October 13 (Indigenous Peoples Day)
2:00-4:00pm
At Chapman’s Landing, Hanover
Explore Chapman’s Landing with NSRWA! We’ll follow a trail through the woods and enjoy occasional views of the Indian Head River, the North River, and Iron Mine Brook. While walking, participants will be encouraged to focus on the sights and sounds–and even the smells!–of the natural world. This woodland trail is sometimes wide, and sometimes narrow, and includes damp and/or bumpy sections. No dogs, please. (Distance: 1.5 miles) Park at the end of Indian Head Drive, Hanover.
FREE (Donations welcome.)
Registration required.
Limit 25 participants

Beachgrass Planting at Peggotty Beach 2025
2025-11-01 10:00 - 12:00
Beachgrass Planting at Peggotty Beach 2025
Saturday, November 1
10:00am to 12:00noon
Join the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, Scituate Beach Commission, Harbor United Methodist Church, and Scituate Trashed on Saturday morning, November 1st for some fun hands-on community engagement and beach rejuvenation at Peggotty Beach in Scituate! Discover why our local beaches are important, and ways we can help keep them beautiful and healthy! Join us as we give back to this special place in our community by planting native beachgrass on the dunes! Registration is required.
Address: 10 Inner Harbor Rd. Scituate, MA 02066
This is a free event. All ages welcome. Great for the family. No dogs please.
Bring a trowel, shovel, or spoon.
REGISTER HERE

2025 NSRWA Annual Meeting and Member Appreciation Lunch
2025-11-02 11:00 - 14:00
2025 NSRWA Member Appreciation Lunch and Annual Meeting
Sunday, November 2, 2025
11:00am-2:00pm
JPH Organization at Ferry Hill
Registration Required – Members Only Event
We invite you to join us for our annual Members Only event as we honor and celebrate the dedicated volunteers who donate their time and talents to the NSRWA. This afternoon will include lunch and the ratification of new board members and the presentation of several special awards:
Volunteer Awards
* Citizen Science Volunteer of the Year: Chris Howie
* Volunteer of the Year: Brenda Kozuch
Recognition Awards
* Barbara Pearson Memorial Award: Presented to the Town of Marshfield and their Veterans for their critical role in removing the first dam on the South River at Veterans Park.
* Special Recognition Award (10 Years of Pontoon Boat Program): Awarded to Charlie Naff, Paul Vercollone, Roht Marine, and Bill Boulter for their long-term commitment to this popular program.
** Evites have been sent out! Please check your email and RSVP as soon as possible as space is limited. Not sure of your membership status? Please contact Joe Regan at joe@nsrwa.org (mailto:joe@nsrwa.org) for confirmation. If you have an account with us, you can check your giving history and status here: https://nsrwa.networkforgood.com/donors/sign_in Not yet a member? Join today! We look forward to celebrating with you.
Please RSVP by October 23, 2025.
We hope you can join us.

Address: 76 Ferry Hill Road, Marshfield, MA 02050
The event will be held indoors in the barn

Fred's Nature Walk
2025-11-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Stetson Meadows, 2 Meadow Farm Way, Norwell, 02061
A Walk for Nature, in Honor of Fred St. Ours, Jr.
Location: Stetson Meadows, 2 Meadow Farm Way, Norwell
Saturday, November 8
10:00am-12:00pm
Rain date: November 9

In the forested land and waters near his home, Fred St. Ours. Jr. found a “playground” that suited his boundless curiosity. Exploring by foot, bike and canoe, Fred found joy in studying and photographing nature, especially his favored dragonflies. He became a local expert on wild mushrooms, leading foraging walks and lectures on the subject. He earned a B.S. in biology, with studies in Marine Science, and an M.S. with a concentration in entomology. His research took him from Costa Rica to Jamaica and beyond, but his local playground was a lasting fascination, and his passion to protect it spurred his membership on the NSRWA board.
Fred loved to invite others to his playground, and it is in this spirit that the St. Ours Family and NSRWA invite you to join us in a walk in Fred’s honor and to support the watershed that he loved to play in and share with others. Led by NSRWA staff members Kezia Bacon and Brian Taylor, we’ll walk trails within Stetson Meadows as we contemplate the history and nature of a place of special significance to the St. Ours family.
The walk will include a loop of approximately 1.5 miles of varying terrain. A second loop, of approximately the same length, will be offered to those who wish to continue the walk.
We hope Fred’s spirit of curiosity and appreciation of nature will inspire you to join us in this beautiful playground and to spread his passion and support for conserving our natural treasures.
The walk is open to all without a fee. Donations to NSRWA are welcome, and 100% of all donations made will benefit NSRWA.
Through the generosity of the St. Ours Family, walk registrants who donate $50.00 or more will receive a specially designed Walk for Nature t-shirt.
Please note, this will be a pet-free event.
REGISTER HERE.
Donations may be made using the button below or brought on the day of the event. Checks should be made payable to NSRWA.

Know Your Local Waters: The Waterways of Norwell
2025-11-13 14:00 - 15:30
Know Your Local Waters: The Waterways of Norwell
Slideshow Presentation
Thursday, November 13
2:00-3:30pm
with Kezia Bacon, North and South Rivers Watershed Association
How well do you know Norwell’s waterways? Join NSRWA’s Kezia Bacon to learn all about the North River and its various tributaries and ponds. We’ll also take a peek into the two other river systems that cross Norwell town boundaries — the Indian Head River, and the Weir River.
This fun, interactive program will include map exercises and quiz questions. Find out how watersheds work, and learn how the rivers have changed over time. We’ll also discuss the issues our local rivers currently face, and how NSRWA is addressing them.
To reserve your spot, call the Norwell COA at 781-659-7878.

NSRWA Walking Club – Alton Smith Reserve in Hanson
2025-11-15 10:00 - 11:30
NSRWA Walking Club – Alton Smith Reserve in Hanson
Saturday, November 15, 2025
10:00-11:30am
Join Walking Club Coordinator Steve French and Guest Host Dave Mansfield as we explore Alton Smith Reserve and Sleeper Conservation Area in Hanson as well as part of J. J. Shepherd Memorial Forest in Pembroke on Saturday, November 15 from 10:00-11:30. Dave is an active member of the Hanson community and is a member of the Conservation Commission with responsibilities for trails and property management projects. Additionally, Dave is the chair of the Stormwater and Drainage Management Committee and the Conservation Committee representative on the Community Preservation Committee. Dave has intimate knowledge of the history and acquisition of conservation properties in Hanson.
Alton Smith Reserve in Hanson is a retired cranberry bog that has been restored to a forested wetland. The reserve is situated between Camp Kiwanee on Maquan Pond and Indian Head Pond which is the headwaters of the Indian Head Brook. Indian Head Brook feeds into the Indian Head River which eventually feeds into the North River. Sleeper Conservation Area in Hanson and JJ Shepherd Memorial Forest in Pembroke are connected to the Alton Smith Reserve by a network of trails which include a part of the Bay Circuit trail. The restored wetlands and Indian Head Pond are a great location to see ducks, great egrets, great blue herons and occasional bald eagles.
The walk is on mostly flat dirt roads and woodland paths with slight elevation changes.
While we love dogs. NSRWA’s walks are dog-free in consideration for all participants. Please leave your furry loved ones at home.
Directions: Parking is available at Camp Kiwanee 460 Indian Head St in Hanson. Use the beach parking lot across from the guard house. Look for the NSRWA Event sign.
Click here for Trail Map.
The Walking Club is looking for guest hosts. If you would like to lead a walk on a local trail that you love, please contact Kezia Bacon at kezia@nsrwa.org, or visit our website at https://www.nsrwa.org/get-involved/
REGISTER HERE

Reflective Walk on Silver Lake
2025-11-16 14:00 - 16:00
Reflective Walk on Silver Lake
With Kezia Bacon
Sunday, November 16
2:00-4:00pm
Veterans Commemorative Town Forest, Pembroke
Explore the Veterans Commemorative Town Forest in Pembroke with NSRWA! We’ll follow a trail through the woods and enjoy occasional views of Silver Lake, which is a headwater to the Jones River. While walking, participants will be encouraged to focus on the sights and sounds – and even the smells! – of the natural world. This hilly woodland trail is mostly wide, occasionally steep, and includes damp and/or bumpy sections.
No dogs, please. (Distance: 1.5 miles)
Park at Pembroke Community Middle School, 559 School Street, Pembroke.
REGISTER HERE.

Guided Walk: Donovan Fields and Wildcat Brook
2025-11-17 13:30 - 15:30
Guided Walk: Donovan Fields and Wildcat Brook
Monday, November 17
1:30-3:30pm
Van transportation provided. Meet at Norwell COA.
with Kezia Bacon and Brian Taylor, North and South Rivers Watershed Association
Join NSRWA for a guided walk along Wildcat Brook (also known as Margaret’s Brook). We’ll follow a section of Norwell’s Pathway, as well as town trails, around the edge of the Donovan Fields and through the woods. Along the way, we’ll share details about the brook and its watershed, and some of the issues it faces. We’ll also review the property’s history.
The trail is relatively flat, although some sections might be muddy, or bumpy with tree roots. The out-and-back route is a total of 1.2 miles. The COA will provide hot cocoa after the walk.
To reserve your spot, call the Norwell COA at 781-659-7878.

A History of the South River
2025-11-18 13:00 - 14:30
A History of the South River
Tuesday, November 18
1:00-2:30pm
with Kezia Bacon of NSRWA
Join us this fall to learn all about the South River! Know Your Local Waters, our collaboration with the Marshfield Senior Center, continues on select Tuesdays at 1:00pm.
On November 18, Kezia Bacon brings a new slideshow presentation, “A History of the South River,” to the Marshfield Senior Center. Topics include: Native American settlements, herring runs and dams, the development of Rexhame and Humarock, water quality challenges and solutions, and the Portland Gale – the storm that changed the river’s mouth.
To register, visit the front desk at the Marshfield Senior Center (230 Webster Street) or call 781-834-5581.

Portland Gale Walk at Rexhame Beach
2025-11-25 13:00 - 14:30
Portland Gale Walk at Rexhame Beach
Tuesday, November 25
1:00-2:30pm
with Kezia Bacon of NSRWA
Join us this fall to learn all about the South River! Know Your Local Waters, our collaboration with the Marshfield Senior Center, continues on select Tuesdays at 1:00pm.
On November 25th, Brian Taylor and Kezia Bacon will offer a guided walk along the South River at Rexhame Beach in Marshfield. Now that you’ve learned about the river’s history, come see where some of the most significant events took place, including the Portland Gale! (Rain date December 2.)
To register, visit the front desk at the Marshfield Senior Center (230 Webster Street) or call 781-834-5581.

NSRWA Walking Club – Colby Phillips Trails in Hanover
2025-12-13 10:00 - 11:30
NSRWA Walking Club – Colby Phillips Trails in Hanover
Saturday, December 13, 2025
10:00-11:30am
Join Walking Club Coordinator Steve French and Guest Hosts Doug and Kathi Thomson as we explore the Colby-Phillips Trails in Hanover on Saturday, December 13 from 10:00-11:30am. The Thomsons are long time NSWRA members, avid hikers and have graciously hosted walks in the past for our club members. Doug is the Town Moderator for Hanover and chaired the Hanover Open Space Committee when the Greenway was first laid out and led the building of the boardwalk and footbridge at Colby-Phillips. Kathi is the owner of KT Design, a graphic and web design company.
The 147-acre Colby-Phillips property is the centerpiece of Hanover’s Greenway. There are about 3 miles of trails through the property over boardwalks and woodland paths. Notable features include a bridge over Cushing Brook, an observation deck at the edge of a freshwater marsh, and the historic West Hanover Cemetery. Cushing Brook flows into the Drinkwater River on the property as the water makes its way towards the North River. There are also two spur trails that lead to the Rockland Rail Trail and Hanover Branch Rail Trail.
The walk starts and ends on a boardwalk with the remainder on woodland paths with varying elevation changes.
While we love dogs. NSRWA’s walks are dog-free in consideration for all participants. Please leave your furry loved ones at home.
Directions: Parking is available at the Hanover Middle School, 45 Whiting St. in Hanover. Look for the NSRWA Event sign.
Click here for Trail Map.
The Walking Club is looking for guest hosts. If you would like to lead a walk on a local trail that you love, please contact Kezia Bacon at kezia@nsrwa.org, or visit our website.
REGISTER HERE
