Quaddick Reservoir, body of water
Quaddick Reservoir is a large body of water created by damming the Five Mile River, spreading across about 408 acres in Thompson. The water averages 2.5 meters deep, is fed by several streams, and contains over twenty aquatic plant species ranging from native water lilies and bladderwort to invasive watermilfoil and fanwort.
The reservoir was created in 1865 by damming the Five Mile River and originally powered mills and industries in Thompson through waterpower. Over time it shifted from an industrial site to a place for outdoor recreation and continues to manage water levels for the surrounding area.
The name Quaddick comes from Native American language and means 'long pond' or 'slow-moving water'. Today visitors experience this place by fishing along the shore, picnicking on the beach, or watching water birds, with the rhythm of seasons shaping how people use the space throughout the year.
The eastern shore is home to Quaddick State Park with a public beach, boat launch, and hiking trails that make visiting straightforward. In warmer months you can swim, fish, or paddling, while in winter the water sometimes freezes over and offers ice skating when conditions permit.
The northern end of the reservoir shows the thickest vegetation with dense mats of aquatic plants, especially fanwort and bladderwort, making it an excellent spot for dragonflies and water birds. This plant density results from both invasive species that altered the ecosystem and native plants that provide habitat for insects and fish.
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