Kensico Reservoir
Introduction
The Kensico Reservoir is a critical component of the New York City's water supply system, located in Westchester County, New York. The reservoir was built in the early 20th century on the site of the former town of Kensico, using laborers who were primarily immigrants from Europe. The reservoir is a significant engineering feat, with a capacity of over 30 billion gallons of water.
History
The construction of the Kensico Reservoir was part of the larger Catskill water system project, which aimed to provide a reliable source of clean water to the rapidly growing population of New York City. The decision to build the reservoir was made in the late 19th century, but actual construction did not begin until 1911. The reservoir was completed in 1917, after six years of intensive labor.
Construction
The construction of the Kensico Reservoir was a monumental task, requiring the displacement of several communities and the rerouting of multiple roads and railways. The reservoir was built by damming the Bronx River, and the resulting lake flooded the former town of Kensico. The construction process involved the use of cutting-edge technology for the time, including steam shovels and dynamite.
Features
The Kensico Reservoir is a gravity dam, which means it uses the weight of the material, in this case, masonry, to resist the horizontal pressure of the water. The reservoir has a surface area of approximately 2,218 acres and a maximum depth of about 200 feet. It is fed by the New Croton and Catskill Aqueducts, and supplies water to the Hillview Reservoir in Yonkers.
Environmental Impact
The creation of the Kensico Reservoir had a significant impact on the local environment. The flooding of the former town of Kensico and the surrounding area resulted in the loss of numerous homes and businesses, as well as significant changes to the local ecosystem. However, the reservoir also provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife species, including several types of fish and birds.
Current Use
Today, the Kensico Reservoir continues to play a vital role in supplying water to New York City. The reservoir is also a popular recreational area, with opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. However, swimming is prohibited due to the reservoir's role in the city's water supply.