Why I Wear a Life Jacket (PFD)

I wasn’t planning to swim that day. It was a classic July afternoon, sunny and high 80’s with a pleasant breeze, and I was heading to Rexhame Beach to go stand-up paddleboarding. By some stroke of luck, the weather, the tides, and my schedule had all aligned, and I was meeting a friend for our annual trip on the South River. 

I thoroughly enjoy the ritual of preparing for a river excursion. Pulling my paddle board or kayak off the rack and clearing away the pollen, dust, and cobwebs. Gathering my gear. Balancing the vessel on my car’s roof rack. Threading the tie-downs and tightening them just-so. Letting my family know where I’m going, and when to expect me back. And then the drive across town. By then, because so much has already gone right, I’m mostly feeling excitement. But it’s mixed with a healthy dose of caution.

 

When I’m out on the river, I try not to tempt fate. I smear on the sunscreen. I bring drinking water, and sometimes a small snack. I attach a band to my sunglasses to secure them to my head. I tuck my car key into a resealable bag and zip it into a pocket. And of course, I wear a personal flotation device (PFD), ... or as the old folks say, a life jacket.

Me, on my paddle board on the South River, on a calmer day.

The plan for the day was simple enough. Put our boards in the water about an hour before high tide, paddle upstream with the current, pause in the Bourne Island Lagoon to rest, then ride the retreating tide back to Rexhame. We’d done it before. The only potential variable was the wind. If it was blowing too hard in either direction, it might not make sense to go out. But we could still sit on our boards in the shallows by the shore, dangling our feet and enjoying the gorgeous view.

 

I knew already, on the walk from the parking lot, that our odds of success were dropping. It was quite a bit breezier than it had been at home. A 10-foot SUP is awkward to carry, but when the wind gusts, it can be downright comedic. Remaining stubbornly positive, I set my board in the water, hopped on, and paddled out. The tide was coming in, as expected, but the wind was blowing entirely in the opposite direction. Digging in, I was eventually able to propel the board around the first bend, but wasn’t this supposed to be relaxing and fun? It wasn’t.

 

The South River at Rexhame, on a windy day.

 

It was time to pivot. Reasoning that the wind would blow us back to our starting place, I shouted to my friend, “I think we should turn around!” But I’d forgotten about the tide.

 

A paddleboard isn’t difficult to maneuver. Once you understand how to keep it balanced, it’s pretty easy to control where it goes. But I didn’t quite think things through when I attempted to turn into the advancing tide ... and instead inadvertently took my first swim of the year!

 

The last time I fell off my paddleboard – probably 10 years ago -- I wasn’t wearing a PFD. It wasn’t scary. I was in waist-deep water. I laughed it off and quickly hoisted myself back onto the board. But the experience stayed with me.

 

This time was different, and thank goodness I was wearing the PFD. The water was deep, and moving quickly. In the few seconds it took me to get my bearings, my board floated off in one direction while I went the other. (A paddleboard leash would have come in handy here.) The current was too strong to swim against... plus I was still holding the paddle. 

 

Bobbing for a moment, I realized that if I turned around and kicked, I could propel myself backward. Adrenaline gave me the strength to get my upper half onto the board, and then somehow, I wrestled my legs up too. I don’t remember how I got to the edge of the marsh. 

 

My friend soon joined me, and we agreed to stay put until the tide turned and we could paddle back to Rexhame. Everyone made it home safely, but for days, I couldn’t stop thinking about how helpless I felt in that swiftly-moving water, and how grateful I was for my PFD.

A different day on the water, but still grateful for my PFD!

It's not my intention to scare anyone away from the water. Go paddling this summer! Get out there and enjoy our local rivers! There are risks and rewards for every adventure, and we all must be our own gauge. Just please bear in mind that some basic precautions will improve your likelihood of success.

The South River at Rexhame, on a calmer day.

• Check the forecast, and remember that wind and tide will greatly affect your experience. 

 

• Bring drinking water and a snack, especially if you’re planning to be out for a while. 

 

• Wear a personal flotation device (PFD). Zip it up and tighten the straps. If a vest-style PDF is a problem, consider an inflatable one, or the kind that comes in a waist-pack. It’s also a good idea to have a whistle on-hand, to make it easier to call for help.

• Tell someone where you’re going, and when you expect to be back. Harbormasters advise that you file a Float Plan, and also post a phone number or email inside your boat. That way, if you become separated from it, they can find you (and not have to launch a search).

 

• Be safe out there, and have fun!

 

If you enjoy the outdoors, be sure to check out our Explore South Shore program for 2025. Every morning, we highlight one of the region’s best nature places on Facebook and Instagram. Every Wednesday, we feature a spot with water access. Not on social media? We’ve listed all the locations on our website as well! 

by Kezia Bacon

August 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

 

How To Walk (almost) All the Way Across Marshfield on Nature Trails

There was no fanfare, no press conference, and certainly no “last spike” celebration, but in mid-June, when construction completed on a 500-foot boardwalk in a remote corner of Red Gold Farm, I couldn’t have been the only one doing a Happy Dance. Why? Because the boardwalk was the final piece of infrastructure required to create a public pathway (almost) all the way across the town of Marshfield!

Along with Rockland’s 3-mile Rail Trail and Norwell’s 3.5-mile Pathway, this makes Marshfield the third South Shore community with a public trail that spans the town. In Marshfield, it’s all part of the Bridle Path and Rail Trail, a route established in the 1870’s by what was soon to become the Old Colony Railroad. Keep reading to learn how to access it.

 

Please note that altogether, this route extends for at least six miles, across four different watersheds! If you do it all at once, out and back, it’s a 12-mile journey. Alternatively, you could explore it in pieces, or stage a second vehicle at the other end. The route described below goes from south to north.

Hoyt-Hall Preserve

Our walk across Marshfield begins at the Hoyt-Hall Preserve, a diverse 123-acre property in the Duxbury Back River watershed, owned by the Wildlands Trust. Look for the parking area at 780 Careswell Street. Follow the trail to Long Tom Pond, and then turn left. After tracing two sides of the pond, you’ll enter a pine forest. Very soon, you’ll see an unmarked but well-established trail to the left. Follow it, and after 0.15 miles you’ll reach the southernmost section of Marshfield’s Rail Trail, which connects Careswell Street to Stagecoach Drive. Turn right, and follow the old railroad bed all the way to the end, where you’ll find a large metal gate.

Black Mount Detour

You’ll be stepping off the trail for a very short distance here, circumventing a culvert that helps channel stormwater out of the Black Mount neighborhood. Turn left at the metal gate and walk less than a tenth of a mile up Stagecoach Drive. Look to the left, in the woods, to see where the railroad bed continues. (Hint: It’s before the next house.) After another tenth of a mile, you’ll arrive at the boardwalk. Note: Happy Dance!

Red Gold Farm

This 500-foot boardwalk is the perfect place to note that not only have you entered a new property, Red Gold Farm, you’ve entered a different watershed. The wetlands that surround you are tributaries to the Green Harbor River. Fifty years ago, the railroad bed was still passable on foot here, but water levels are higher now. The boardwalk provides a much-welcome alternative. 

 

When you reach the end of the boardwalk, turn left. You may be tempted to continue straight along the old railroad bed, but this is not recommended, as some sections are impassable. Instead, continue along the pond until you arrive at the first of several cranberry bogs. Then turn right to follow the main trail through this recently-acquired conservation property. Note: While the main trail is the quickest, consider exploring some of the side trails, around the cranberry bogs, for additional views of the river. 

Toward the end of the main trail, you’ll see another metal gate, but if you continue a little farther, you’ll find a wooden footbridge to the right. Cross the bridge and you’ll be back on the old railroad bed. Turn left, and soon you’ll arrive at the Green Harbor River. Stop on the bridge to admire the view, then continue to Webster Street.

Webster Street Detour

In the summer of 2024, Marshfield residents were thrilled to see a sidewalk installed along one side of busy Webster Street, ... but also perhaps a bit puzzled, as the sidewalk came to an end, rather abruptly, at a seemingly random spot. The sidewalk is actually part of the Rail Trail, providing a detour for an area sold to private owners after the railroad ceased operations. Follow the sidewalk north, all the way to the town center. A crosswalk provides access to Dandelion Park, and the first of several informational kiosks for the Bridle Path and Rail Trail.

 

Dandelion Park

The route becomes easier to follow now. From here, it’s a straight shot to Station Street, with much to admire along the way. Stop first at the kiosk, which features a map and some fascinating local history. Take a quick meander through Dandelion Park and then continue up the trail. You’ve now entered your third watershed: the South River. Follow the trail another 0.15 miles and admire the view.

Francis Keville Footbridge

Behind the scenes, for the last 25 years and more, the Town of Marshfield has been slowly and deliberately building its Bridle Path and Rail Trail. A key step was the 2001 installation of the Francis Keville Footbridge. Not only does the bridge connect the northern and southern parts of town, it offers some gorgeous views of the South River. And access too! The town provides a seasonal gangway and float here – an ideal spot to launch a canoe, kayak or SUP. Beyond the bridge, you could take a short side trip into Pratt Farm, a 34-acre conservation parcel with a half-mile out-and-back trail. Or continue north on the Rail Trail, crossing South River Street to the start of the Bridle Path (and another kiosk).

The Bridle Path

You are now about halfway through your journey. While the trail itself doesn’t look much different, it has a new name. The Bridle Path exists because years ago, Marshfield decided the railroad bed would remain open, in perpetuity, for equestrian access. Lead your horse by its bridle, or just continue walking for 2.5 miles ... all the way to Pinehurst Road. Along the way, you’ll cross Clay Pit Road and Ferry Street (with a couple more kiosks). 

Note: If you have time for a major detour, you might also explore the adjacent 775-acre Carolina Hill Reservation, which borders the Bridle Path north of Ferry Street. If you’re blessed with boundless energy, you could do a long loop through both the Carolina Hill and Furnace Brook Watershedconservation areas!

Station Street and Beyond

When you reach the end of the Bridle Path, at Pinehurst Road, take a moment to contemplate your location, as now you are truly on the other side of town! The Rail Trail continues a little farther north, to Station Street, not far from where the bustling Seaview train station once stood. You’ve traveled at least six miles now, and perhaps have seen Marshfield from a refreshingly different perspective.

 

But are you all the way across town? Not quite. Again, because land was sold to private owners in the 20^th century, the next section of the railroad bed is not accessible to the general public. You could walk a mile up Summer Street, but in the absence of sidewalks, I don’t recommend it. (Note: Let’s get this on the Town of Marshfield’s radar, for future Public Access projects!)

Damon’s Point

The final leg of the journey begins at the southern end of Damon’s Point Road, off Summer Street, at the intersection with Macombers Way. We’re in yet another watershed now – the North River. Murdock’s Pond, to your left, marks the spot where Hannah Eames Brook becomes Macombers Creek. From 1871-1839, the Marshfield Hills Railroad Station stood here. Today’s Damon’s Point Road extends over the railroad bed. It’s a pleasant street to walk along, and at the end, there’s a magnificent prize!

 

Damon’s Point, on the banks of the beautiful North River, is the final stop. A 1939 hurricane destroyed the railroad bridge, but the town built a lovely observation deck and seating area on its footings, along with seasonal ramps, docks and floats for boaters. And the view? It’s among the best around, as you can look out for quite a distance, in both directions, across the estuary. Note: One more Happy Dance... you’ve completed your journey! Now go home and soak your feet.

 

If you enjoy the outdoors, be sure to check out our Explore South Shore program for 2025. Every morning, we highlight one of the region’s best nature places on Facebook and Instagram. Every Saturday, we feature a long walk. Not on social media? We’ve listed all the locations on our website as well! 

by Kezia Bacon

July 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

 

Even More Paddling Itineraries!

Summer is coming and paddling season is here! Are you ready to get out on the water? Would you feel “more ready” if you had a better understanding of how the tides affect our local rivers? Come to our “Timing the Tides” presentation on June 17^th at the Scituate Public Library, or watch for additional presentations later this season.

 

Our coastal rivers offer numerous public launch spots for non-motorized boats. For the past two summers, NSRWA has published articles on the various ways to explore them, and you can read them here and here. This year’s article includes favorites from the past along with additional suggestions. In addition, the Paddling section of our online Get Outdoors database lists 100+ places to launch.

 

When you go, be sure that every passenger wears a personal flotation device (PFD). Check the forecast before you leave. It’s no fun trying to out-paddle a thunderstorm. Remember that wind plays just as much of a role as tide, and plan accordingly if there’s a stiff breeze. And if you’re staging a second vehicle, stage a second set of straps (or carry them with you) so you can secure your boat for the ride home! 

 

If you enjoy the outdoors, be sure to check out our Explore South Shore program for 2025. Every morning, we highlight one of the region’s best nature places on Facebook and Instagram. Every Wednesday we feature a spot with water access. Not on social media? We’ve listed all the locations on our website as well! 

North River, Herring Brook, and Indian Head River

Stage a second vehicle at the Hanover Public Launch and then bring your boat to the Pembroke Town Forest on Brick Kiln Lane. Put your boat in the water in Pembroke around ocean high tide. Paddle upstream (to the left), past Fox Hill Shipyard and Third Herring Brook. Soon you’ll see the historic Washington Street Bridge. With the incoming tide in your favor, you’ll be able to paddle under the bridge. Bear in mind that – depending on the height and time of the tide -- the current may be quite swift! Continue past the Route 53 Bridge to the uppermost stretch of the North River, which is quite beautiful. Eventually you’ll come to a crossroads, known colloquially as The Crotch. If you have time to explore Herring Brook, bear left and spend some time paddling this quiet stream before returning to the crossroads. Otherwise, bear right and continue up the Indian Head River to the Hanover Public Launch. (2-3 hours on the water)

Herring River, North River and Cove Creek

Stage a second vehicle at the Marshfield Public Launch on Union Street. Bring your boat to Scituate’s Driftway Conservation Park, and put in the water about 3 hours before ocean high tide. Paddling down Herring River might be slow-going at first, as you’ll be working against the rising tide, but it’s a relatively short journey. When you get to the North River, turn upstream (to the right). From there, you’ll be able to ride the rising tide past Damon’s Point and the Route 3A Bridge. After another big bend in the river, look for Cove Creek on the left. At this point in the tide cycle, you’ll be able to explore quite a bit of the creek. Then return to the North River, continuing upstream to your second vehicle, just after the Union Street Bridge. Note: this journey is best undertaken when motorboat traffic on the river is low. Perhaps in the morning, or on a weekday. (3-4 hours on the water)

Bound Brook, Musquashcut Brook and the Gulf River

The Town of Scituate has done a lot of work at the Mordecai Lincoln Mill and Homestead, making it more accessible to the public and offering new opportunities for exploration. They recently established a launch area for canoes and kayaks on Bound Brook, which is a great spot for those seeking an out-and-back paddling excursion in this gorgeous expanse of river and marsh. Put your boat in the water 4 hours after the Cohasset low tide and head downstream (to the right). Musquashcut Brook and the Gulf River both offer opportunities to explore, but steer clear of the Border Street Bridge area where currents can be dangerously swift. We recommend returning to your starting point around the ocean high tide or soon after. (2-3 hours on the water)

Scenic South River Marshes 

Begin at the South River public launch at Francis Keville Footbridge in Marshfield, a short walk down the Rail Trail from Dandelion Park. Put your boat in the water 2-3 hours before ocean high tide. Paddle downstream for an hour or two. You will be working against the tide, but it’s a pretty gentle tide this far upriver! Make a stop at the Bourne Island Lagoon, then ride the rising tide back to your starting place. Parking is available in Marshfield Center. (2-4 hours on the water)

North River – “No Gains” and Blueberry Island

Bring your boat to the Pembroke Town Forest on Brick Kiln Lane, and put it in the water about 4 hours after ocean high tide. Paddle downstream (to the right) toward Marshfield with the receding tide. Along the way, you’ll experience the winding “No Gains” section of the river and pass under Route 3. Continue onward to Blueberry Island or Couch Beach, where you can stop to stretch your legs and rest a while. By then, the tide will have turned, and you can paddle along with it back to your starting place. (4 hours on the water)

by Kezia Bacon

June 2025

  

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/

 

8 Local Spots to Awaken the Senses

One of the best things about exploring the outdoors is experiencing the beauty of the natural world. Our rivers and streams, marshes and beaches, forests and meadows present such inviting landscapes. There is always plenty to observe and appreciate. But spending time outdoors also provides opportunities to explore with the other senses. This month’s article highlights places you can go not only to enjoy the view, but also to take note of the scents, sounds, tastes and textures that accompany it.

 

Brant Rock Beach, Marshfield

Choose a time when the tide is relatively low, and find your way to the end of the Brant Rock jetty, to the giant rock that gives this seaside village in Marshfield its name. Find a dry spot to sit, and then close your eyes. Notice the contours of the stone beneath you, feel the spray of the sea on your face, take a deep breath of ocean air. The view of the shoreline is worth noticing as well! Located at 330 Ocean Street, Marshfield. No fee for off-season parking (after Labor Day and before Memorial Day weekend). 

Rockland Rail Trail

The 3.5-mile Rockland Rail Trail extends from West Hanover, through Rockland, to North Abington – spanning a broad swath of the French’s Stream watershed. Wheelchair- and stroller-friendly, and ideal for walking and bicycling, it offers numerous access points. It’s also a great place to enjoy the smell of sweet pepperbush! In July and August, when it might be too hot and humid to venture very far into the woods, this paved, tree-lined trail is redolent with the scent of sweet pepperbush in bloom. Abundant at many of our local nature areas, this green shrub produces clusters of white flowers that smell both sweet and peppery. Park in the lot at 638 Market Street, Rockland and explore the trail in either direction.

 

South River Bog, Duxbury

All over the South Shore, there are cranberry bogs in the process of re-wilding. The recently-retired still look very much like active cranberry bogs. Others – much farther along – may be more difficult to discern. This 100-acre property in Duxbury belongs to the latter category. Occasionally you’ll catch glimpses of canals and sluiceways, but the wetlands, woods and waterways are more likely to grab your attention. If you stop by in the springtime, I recommend spending some time with your eyes closed. Find your way to one of the two spots where the trail crosses the South River. There, amidst the marshes, you’re likely to see – and hear – quite a few birds! Very limited parking (1-2 vehicles) at approx. 53 North Street. Pedestrian access from Tanglewood Trail and Highland Trail.

Chapman’s Landing, Hanover

This large property offers several intersecting trails that loop through woods and wetlands, with views of the Indian Head River, the North River, and the freshwater tidal marsh that surrounds them. Follow the green trail to the northeastern section, where you’ll notice there are quite a few large stones at the water’s edge -- ballast left behind from shipping and shipbuilding days. At the edge of the river, you’ll also find a tall observation platform. Climb to the top and enjoy not only the spectacular view, but the river breeze! How high is the tide? Do you hear any birds? Does this freshwater marsh smell different from the saltwater marshes downstream? Ample on-site parking at the end of Indian Head Drive, Hanover.

Tucker Preserve, Pembroke

Another great sound to listen for while spending time in nature is flowing water. This 78-acre Wildlands Trust property not only offers access to the Indian Head River, it provides close-up views of some of the smaller streams that flow into it. Follow the main trail along the river, through the woods, and eventually you will arrive at a rocky stream crossing. Find a place to sit, and then close your eyes and listen. Depending on the time of year and the amount of precipitation we’ve had, you might hear a soft tinkling or a forceful roar. Ample on-site parking at Ludden’s Ford Park, West Elm Street, Pembroke.

George Washington Forest, Hingham

Also known as the Hingham Town Forest, this 197-acre woodland features 3 miles of both wide and narrow trails across rolling hills and forested esker ridges. It is also a feast for the senses! Find a quiet spot and then close your eyes. Can you smell the pine? Hear chipmunks, squirrels and other critters moving about? Also be on the lookout for wild blueberry shrubs along the trails. The property has plenty, and if you time your visit just-so in midsummer, you can treat yourself some of these small but flavorful morsels. Located in the watershed of Fulling Mill Brook, a tributary to the Weir River. Limited roadside parking on South Pleasant Street and Charles Street.

John Little Conservation Area, Marshfield

Follow the red-blazed trail through this 75-acre property to the wooden walkway that provides access to the North River. In the cooler months, stand at the end of the pier and feel the river breeze. Is it moving in the same direction as the tide? In the warmer months, venture out onto the float and dip your hand into the water. Is the temperature what you expected? Does it feel salty or fresh? Can you smell the marshes and mud? Look for the small parking lot at 905 Union Street. 

Route 3A Bridge, Scituate

Are you a true nature lover? Test yourself by stopping by this scenic and historic spot on the North River at low tide. The roadside parking area offers views of the marsh and the river, and sometimes the breeze can be quite nice! But today you’re here for the smell. Specifically, the pungent scent of low tide. Do you love it or loathe it? Does it smell like rotten eggs to you ... or does it smell like home? Rest assured, all answers are correct. There’s no “right” way to enjoy nature! On-site parking at 12 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Scituate.

 

Looking for more places to explore? 

The Get Outdoors section of our website features 500 places on the South Shore to enjoy the natural world. More than 200 of them feature walking trails, but there are also some lovely spots to just sit and enjoy the view. Each listing includes parking information, trail maps, and plenty more.

 

If you love the outdoors and would appreciate a daily suggestion for where to enjoy it, follow “Postcards From the ‘Shed” our 2025 Explore South Shore program. In addition to inspiring photos and access information, we share details about each property’s watershed. Every day on Facebook and Instagram, we highlight a different spot. Not on social media? We’ve included all the locations on our website as well! Plus test your knowledge with our monthly “Where in the Watershed?” photo quiz! 

by Kezia Bacon

May 2025

 

Kezia Bacon's articles appear courtesy of the North and South Rivers Watershed Association, a local non-profit organization devoted to protecting our waters. For membership information and a copy of their latest newsletter, contact NSRWA at (781) 659-8168 or visit www.nsrwa.org. You will also find 27+ years of Kezia’s Nature columns there. For more information about the “Where in the Watershed?”/Postcards from the ‘Shed Contest, visit https://www.nsrwa.org/2025-nsrwa-explore-south-shore-contest-rules/