The Department of Conservation and Recreation is state agency of one of the largest state parks systems in the country. The department’s mission is to protect and enhance the state’s natural, cultural and recreational resources. The department’s Office of Waterways is located in Hingham off of route 3A next to the Hingham Shipyard and Hewitts Landing and is in charge of designing and constructing waterway improvements, flood control facilities, and shore protection projects. It is also responsible for the dredging of waterways, the maintaining state piers.