South River Bacterial Source Assessment Project for Shellfish Restoration

Back to Project
South River 2
South River 2

CEI worked with the Town of Marshfield and the North and South Rivers Watershed Association (NSRWA) to assess potential sources of bacteria in the South River watershed. This was accomplished through iterative source tracking sampling; prioritization of potential solutions and problem areas according to feasibility and expected improvement; and development of designs for BMPs to improve the top three priority areas. CEI coordinated with the NSRWA to complete data collection, site prioritization, and in the development of engineering plans and cost estimates for future grant opportunities to fund implementation. The project goal was to develop BMPs to help achieve water quality goals supportive of opening South River shellfish beds and allow for safe recreation. Specific activities included:

  • Update existing North and South River Watershed Association QAPP;
  • Conduct water quality sampling to identify bacterial sources;
  • Compile watershed information including identification and feasibility analysis of BMP retrofit sites;
  • Prioritize BMP sites and develop preliminary designs.