The Canoe River flows approximately 16 miles from its headwaters near Lake Massapoag in Sharon, to Winnecunnet Pond in Norton. Its shores are predominantly wooded as it meanders through the towns of Sharon, Foxborough, Mansfield, Easton and Norton. The river’s watershed recharges the Canoe River aquifer which supplies water to municipal wells in four of these five communities. It has been designated an Area of Critical Environmental Concern (ACEC) and a federal Sole Source Aquifer. Thus, it is important to protect and preserve specified parcels to ensure continued water quality for the region.

Those portions of the watershed which are publicly owned are enjoyed by canoeists, fishermen hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts. However, much of the vacant land within the riparian corridor is privately owned and is not protected or available for public use.