Wildlife research initiatives in Westport, Massachusetts

Welcome to the Westport Shellfish Department, your trusted local government office dedicated to the sustainable management and conservation of shellfish resources in Westport, Massachusetts. Located in the heart of Westport, MA 02790, our department plays a vital role in promoting the health and vitality of our local marine ecosystems. We are committed to ensuring the responsible harvesting and protection of shellfish, providing valuable resources and guidance to both commercial shellfishermen and recreational harvesters. Our team works diligently to monitor shellfish populations, enforce regulations, and implement programs that support the longevity of this precious natural resource. We offer permits, conduct water quality testing, and provide educational outreach to foster a community that values and supports sustainable shellfishing practices.

LaPalme Farm, located on Blain Street in Acushnet, Massachusetts, is a beautiful park and tourist attraction owned by the Buzzards Bay Coalition. The Coalition was recently awarded the 2021 Coastal Stewardship Award by the national Coastal and Estuarine Research Federation for their extensive programs to protect Buzzards Bay. A short documentary highlights the impact of nitrogen pollution on the Westport River and Buzzards Bay. With nearly 50 acres of meadows and forests, LaPalme Farm offers visitors a chance to explore over a mile of trails through the Acushnet River Reserve. The property is conveniently located just minutes from Acushnet and New Bedford, yet feels like a peaceful retreat. Visitors can hike through fields of wildflowers, peaceful woods, and along the gentle Acushnet River.

Welcome to Pease Park, a scenic and versatile outdoor destination located at 8 Pease Street, Fairhaven, Massachusetts. Nestled on the bustling shores of inner New Bedford Harbor, Pease Park is managed by the town of Fairhaven and offers an array of amenities for both boating enthusiasts and local residents seeking a peaceful retreat. For those looking to explore the open waters, Pease Park boasts one of three public boat ramps in the area, including the Jim Holmes Memorial Boat Ramp. This facility accommodates vessels up to 50 feet, providing easy access to the vibrant waters of Buzzards Bay. With convenient trailer parking for a small daily fee and dinghy storage available, launching your next maritime adventure has never been easier. However, please be mindful of the heavy marine traffic in this industrial harbor.

Welcome to the Horseneck Point Life-Saving Station, a unique historical gem located at 241 East Beach Road in Westport, Massachusetts. Managed by the Buzzards Bay Coalition, this state-owned station is part of the Horseneck Beach State Reservation and offers a fascinating glimpse into Westport's rich maritime history. Originally built in 1888 by the Humane Society of Massachusetts, the Life-Saving Station was one of 69 coastal rescue stations established to aid mariners in distress along Buzzards Bay’s treacherous coastline. After a storied past as a restaurant, bar, and even an ice cream parlor, the station was meticulously restored to its original appearance in 2009 and reopened as a museum and visitor center in 2014.

Welcome to Tinkhamtown Woodlands, a serene sanctuary nestled at 29 Long Plain Road in the heart of Mattapoisett, Massachusetts. As part of the expansive Mattapoisett River Reserve, this enchanting park offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore over 100 acres of pristine forests and wetlands, all while contributing to the protection of clean drinking water for thousands of local residents. Tinkhamtown Woodlands is a treasured property of the Buzzards Bay Coalition, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and ecological integrity of Buzzards Bay and its watershed. This area is also supported by the Mattapoisett Land Trust, which has been enriching the community's quality of life since 1974 through land conservation.