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News  Parkers River and Seine Pond Restoration About to Begin Construction

8/26/2019
  • Division of Ecological Restoration
Bridge over Parkers River

The Parkers River is located in the Town of Yarmouth. Originating in Long Pond, a 63-acre headwater pond, the Parkers River flows south through Seine Pond, and then into Nantucket Sound. Route 28, an east-west highway, divides the Parkers River estuary and restricts flow into the upper estuary. For over 120 years, the undersized bridge crossing on Route 28 has severely restricted the natural tidal flow into the Parkers River estuary, impairing ecological function. Water quality concerns in Seine Pond in the upper reach of the river have been reported for years. The restricted tide has also reduced average salinity and the amount of sediment that can be transported into the estuary - both are needed for the salt marsh to keep pace with sea level rise. High flow rates under the bridge limit passage by marine and diadromous fish during portions of the tide cycle, and the undersized opening causes storm surge to be held for extended periods, increasing the likelihood for economic damage during coastal storms.

After years of thoughtful work, construction to install a larger structure on Route 28 begins in the fall. Replacing the existing tidally- restrictive bridge over the river will restore natural tidal hydrology to this 219-acre estuarine system. This will greatly improve ecosystem health and enhance water quality. Additionally this restoration will improve fish passage for herring - the Parkers River and Seine Pond are part of the migration route for river herring spawning in upstream Long Pond. The Town of Yarmouth has worked closely with MassDOT and is supported by DER, NRCS, the NOAA Restoration Center, and the USFWS.

Image: This bridge on Route 28 restricts tidal flow to the Parkers River Estuary.

  • Division of Ecological Restoration 

    DER restores and protects rivers, wetlands, and watersheds in Massachusetts for the benefit of people and the environment.
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