"The rivers are our brothers.  They quench our thirst.  The rivers carry our canoes and feed our children......You must give to the rivers the kindness you would give to your brothers."                      Chief Seattle "Water is so much more fine and sensitive an element than earth.  A single boatman passing up or down unavoidable shakes the whole river, and disturbs its every relection....The forms of the trees and groves change with every stroke of the oar".                           Henry David Thoreau

The North River has long been recognized as a birthplace of American ships and shipping.  Bronze markers on the sites of many ancient shipyards tell the story of hundreds of vessels born in the North River estuary.  The golden beauty of the marshes and silence of the River today are in sharp contrast to earlier days.  National recognition of the North River's unique environment values came in 1977 with its designation as a "National Natural Landmark" by the U.S. Department of the Interior.  In March of 1979 the Massachusetts Department of Environmental management declared the North River the Commonwealth's first Scenic River under the State's Scenic Rivers Act.

Each season brings new and different pleasures to the North River.  In July, a wash of color reminiscent of a Monet painting, with white, orange, scarlet, indigo and lavender contrasts against a lush background of greens.  At the higher points, where the river meanders close to the pine forest one finds places suitable for stopping for a break, to stretch, or to have lunch.  These waters provide excellent fishing grounds and good bird watching.  Wild geese and migrating ducks abound in the fall.

Early spring view of the                                                                                      Herring Brook Valley from the pier.              These protected lands encompass  fresh water tidal wetlands that are globally rare.  It is the largest undisturbed intact habitat of its kind in Massachusetts, a perfect spot for wildlife sighting, or just relaxing.

There are many interesting and fun activies on the North River.  This list is from the April, 2011  newsletter of the North South Rivers Watershed Association. They have been holding an Annual Kayak and Outdoor Adventure Expo.  This year's was held April 2 at the Norwell Middle School.     NSRWA River Adventure Camps start in July  for children grades 6-8. There are 6 one week sessions.    There are also Water Watch lectures, river paddles, house tours, nature walks and hikes.  Go to www.nsrwa.org for further information or to sign up for weekly emails.

The North River has a long and interesting history.  Here is one story.

Four day adventure fundraiser.  Starting June 9, 2011

For 2011:   Standup paddling and other activities

Check out the North South River Association website for river activities:  nsrwa.org