The berm, or causeway, separating Brace Cove and Niles Pond is undergoing extensive maintenance.
As has been reported here on GMG many times, the berm was severely damaged by a succession of storms, very notably after Superstorm Sandy. The causeway is also increasingly at risk because the Brace Cove breakwater has deteriorated, which means that the berm is harder hit during extreme weather.
Over time, the rocks that were used to build the causeway have gradually been swept into the pond. The excavator is permitted to scoop up the rocks from the Niles Pond side to rebuild the height of the causeway. No rocks from the Brace Cove side were used to restore the causeway.
The restoration of the berm is ecological progress at its best. By fortifying the causeway, the uniquely beautiful environment, where freshwater Niles Pond meets salty Brace Cove, will continue to remain a sanctuary for Cape Ann wildlife.
The narrowest strip of land separating a body of fresh water from the sea.
Oh What a Tangled Web We Weave
Brace Cove Seals Sleeping at Daybreak
Good Morning Gloucester 
I appreciate your thoughtful reporting, Kim. The last photo is lovely.
LikeLike
Wow, you were right. This is great, Kim!
LikeLike
I am surprised you have not gotten arrested for trespassing yet over there? you neither fish nor fowl I would highly recommend getting a fishing pole or a large gauge gun to start bird hunting to avoid being Arrested for trespassing. It will be easy to become a good shot and a bird sanctuary but at least you won’t be arrested
LikeLike