Matthew Souza Conservation Area

Address: 151 Hatchville Road. East Falmouth.

The Matthew Souza Conservation Area is a long, narrow parcel at the headwaters of the Coonamessett River. The property follows the river from Hatchville Road north to Coonamessett Pond. A rutted, dirt road through the 25 acres provides boating access for fishing. At 158 acres, Coonamessett is the town’s largest pond, and the herring run that leads to Great Pond on Vineyard Sound is the town’s most important run.

Efforts to protect the herring run started in 1964 when the town purchased a small parcel bordering the river. More land was acquired in 1970.

With the rest of the Coonamessett Reservation, the property is in the re-charge zone for the Coonamessett and Crooked Pond town wells.

The parcel was dedicated to the town’s long-time game warden and conservation officer, Matthew R. Souza. Matt Souza retired in 1974 after 30 years of service. He was always an advocate and guardian of Falmouth’s woods.

A small parking area and kiosk for the conservation area are on the north side of Hatchville Road, just beyond the entrance to Atamannsit Road.