Did you know the rivers are a Nationally recognized Natural Landmark? You may be familiar with Historic Landmarks but the nation also recognizes natural resources that are unique to the nation and the North and South Rivers are one of them! In 1977, the National Park Service and the Department of the Interior, at the request of the NSRWA, designated the North and South Rivers of Plymouth County, Massachusetts, a National Natural Landmark (NNL). The rivers were recognized as “possessing national significance in illustrating the natural character of the United States,” The area of designation comprised 5,400 acres, including over 3,600 acres of saltwater marsh.
On September 23rd, at the South River Park in Marshfield, a rededication ceremony was held to unveil a long sought after plaque from the National Park Service denoting this landmark status. Congresswoman Nikki Tsongas, whose husband Senator Paul Tsongas was instrumental in obtaining the 1977 designation, was invited to speak on the importance of protecting these rivers and all of the nation’s natural resources for future generations.
Next time you are in downtown Marshfield I hope you will stop at the South River Park on Rt 139 and visit the plaque installed on a rock overlooking the South River to remind everyone of these precious resources.
To see more photos from the ceremony, go to our Facebook page.
