The U.S. Coast Guard Sector Southeastern New England (SENE) is located in Woods Hole, MA. The site has had a maritime presence since 1857. The United States Lighthouse Service purchased property in Woods Hole to support buoys, lights, and lightships. In 1939, the Lighthouse Service merged with the U.S. Coast Guard. Over the decades, the location evolved into the headquarters of what was known as Group Woods Hole, which coordinated multiple stations, aids-to-navigation units, cutters, and support elements for southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island waters.
After 2006, the location became known as Sector Southeastern New England. Its core missions focus on Search and Rescue, Maritime Law Enforcement, Aids to Navigation, Maritime Safety & Marine and Environmental Protection, and Homeland Security.