Ms. Winifred Woods of Falmouth and Ms. Deborah Moore Williams of Mashpee were primarily responsible for creating this organization. CPWB was initially formed to protect Washburn Island from development, and subsequently became involved in the protection of lands surrounding Waquoit Bay. In concert with other organizations, CPWB was successful in having South Cape Beach, Washburn Island, the Quashnet River valley, and the Sargent Estate (the Reserve’s Visitor Center) preserved through acquisition by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.CPWB's primary purpose continues to be the protection of the expansive watershed of Waquoit Bay.