Marshfield Bolsters Coastal Resilience with Key Projects

Marshfield is taking decisive action to protect its coastline and critical infrastructure from the threats posed by rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Two flagship projects—the Green Harbor Jetty realignment and the flood-proofing of the Plymouth Avenue Pump Station—demonstrate the town's forward-thinking approach to coastal resilience.

Repairing and Realigning the Green Harbor Jetty

One of Marshfield's most significant collaborative efforts is with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers on the Green Harbor Jetty realignment project. This initiative will address structural issues and navigational challenges caused by uneven lengths of the jetties, which contribute to sediment buildup and create safety hazards.

“Finally, after about 10 or 12 years of back-and-forth meetings with the Army Corps, they've agreed to work with the town to straighten out the jetty and repair both structures,” said Town Administrator Michael Maresco during the January 13th Select Board meeting. “At low tide, you can see gaping holes where blocks of granite have been displaced by waves.”

The repairs will involve securing large granite blocks and ensuring the jetties can withstand the powerful waves that batter Marshfield's coast. The realignment, which falls under a $10 million budget, avoids the need for Congressional approval, expediting the project timeline. Maresco noted that public meetings are expected to take place as planning progresses, keeping residents informed about the improvements.

Flood-Proofing Essential Infrastructure

The town is also addressing vulnerabilities at the Plymouth Avenue Pump Station, a critical component of Marshfield's wastewater system. Located in an AE 9 flood zone, the pump station has been reinforced with advanced dry flood-proofing measures. These include concrete barriers and deployable flood shields to protect against storm surges and water infiltration during extreme weather events.

Andrew Stewart, Marshfield's floodplain administrator, detailed the extensive upgrades to the facility. “The pump station is now flood-proofed to elevation 13, which exceeds federal requirements and ensures the structure is well-prepared for future flood risks,” he explained. “Even with updates to FEMA flood maps, this facility will have the necessary protection.”

Stewart added that much of the pump station's infrastructure is underground, extending nearly 35 feet below the surface. “The enhancements ensure that even in the event of a 500-year flood, the pump station will remain operational, safeguarding the town's wastewater system,” he said.

A Vision for Long-Term Resilience

These projects are part of a larger plan to strengthen Marshfield's defenses against climate change and its impacts. The town has already begun securing grants and initiating studies to address other flood-prone areas, including the potential reconstruction and enhancement of Dike Road. According to Maresco, such improvements could protect more than 500 homes in low-lying areas that might otherwise face significant risk.

“Flood protection is not just about responding to today’s challenges but preparing for what’s to come,” Maresco said. “Marshfield is committed to safeguarding our community, infrastructure, and way of life.”

Community Collaboration

Marshfield’s commitment to coastal resilience is bolstered by strong partnerships at the federal, state, and local levels. The town is working closely with the North South River Watershed Association and other organizations to secure funding and expertise for ongoing and future projects.

“These initiatives highlight the importance of collaboration,” said Maresco. “With the support of organizations like the Army Corps and our dedicated town departments, Marshfield is setting the standard for coastal resilience in Massachusetts.”