BRWA hosts the Boston Harbor Ecosystem Network on May 7, 202

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On May 7th 2024, Linda DiAngelo, President of the Back River Watershed Association, welcomed Dr. Diana Chin, MassBays Metro Boston Regional Coordinator from the Northeastern University Marine Science Center, along with other distinguished scientists and guests representing various state and federal agencies for a tour of the Back River.  Thanks to Weymouth Park and Recreation and Weymouth Conservation.  

We are most grateful for the time and attention of the Federal and State agencies for recognizing the importance of the Back River Estuary.  

Special thanks to:  

- Boston Harbor Ecosystem Network

- MassBays National Estuary Partnership

- Massachusetts Division of Marine Fisheries

- Massachusetts Department of Energy and Environmental Affairs

- National Park Service

Starting at the Abigail Adams State Park, a park that was established after 17 years of dedication and  collaborative work by our found Mary Toomey, the tour continued to the historic Great Esker Park, on to Osprey Overlook Park, and then to the herring ladders in Jackson Square.  The tour ended at the Great Esker Park Science Center for refreshments.  .  

The beautiful weather highlighted the jewel of Weymouth's natural heritage as Linda spoke of the history of the Back River and the estuary's designation as: i) one of Massachusetts Special Place, ii)  a Local Scenic River, iii) a Wildlife Refuge,  and iv)  a Designated Area of Critical Environment Concern since 1982.  

The Back River, located near Rt 3A bordering the coastal towns of Weymouth and Hingham, is considered, "A priceless Archeological Resource" as it is one of the only estuaries in Boston Harbor which still has a number of aboriginal sites preserved in its soils." as the Back River was formed 15,000 years ago during the period of the last glacial melting and is considered a sub-basin of Boston Harbor. 

The Back River is a coastal, tidal river running a mile and a half through saltwater marshes, receiving water from upland ponds, swamps rivers and lakes.  The Weymouth Herring Run along with smelt, eel, other fin fish, shellfish and over 150 species of birds all call the Back River their home.