New York City Reservoirs

I recently learned that the first water system in New York City began construction in 1837, and was completed in 1842. What became known as the Croton System was a tunneling system connected to the Croton River in the Northern Westchester County, meaning that it took only 5 years from start to finish. Throughout the borough of Manhattan the reservoir systems were located at 5th and 42nd street, today the location of the main branch of the New York Public Library (1911), and the other two at 79th street and 85th street, these are the Central Park Great Lawn, and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onnassis Reservoir (Central Park Reservoir) which was deactivated in 1991.

Issues Concerning Central Park Reservoir Water Quality

The greater purpose of this blog is to ensure that the water quality at the Central Park Reservoir is of upmost importance to citizens of New York as well as elected officials who can help ensure the safety of the reservoir.

Reservoir Background Information

the Central Park Reservoir, now officially named the Jaqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, is located from 86th street to 96th street and has a diameter of 1.58 miles. Its deepest point is 40 feet and contains a total of 1 billion gallons of water. Originally constructed to provide fresh water to New York City, it now serves not as a means of sustenance, but as a backup water supply. Currently, it is home to a plethora of species ranging from ducks, geese, fish, birds and turtles. As such, we believe it is our duty to maintain the water quality in order to provide a safe habitat.

- Faron

The Likelihood That WIHS Would Actually Fund A Project Like This What So Ever. . .

Bellow is your average water testing kit:

I now ask you; what do you think the likelihood is that our broke ass high school will invest in a 10 dollar water testing kit in order to provide accurate and relevant data? How many hands for 0? Thats what I thought. So what is the point of the project then? Just checking. . .

-Faron

Picture of the JKO aka Central Park Reservoir

6 train to 72 nd street and take a nice enjoyable walk towards the park with your loved one.

-Mariah

Mission Statement!

This blog, created by Mariah Bynoe, Marie Sophia Sanon and Faron Tillson of Mr. Webbs Government class, focuses on the issue of water quality in the Central Park Reservoir and the effects that it may have upon the surrounding ecosystem. This project is the culmination of a vast amount of research and a whole lot o' desire to make the world a safer, cleaner place. We hope that you too take an active role in bettering the planets ecosystem in your own way. Contributions to the blog in the form of comments or suggestions are greatly appreciated.

- Marie, Mariah, Faron