Whitney Point Reservoir, body of water
Whitney Point Reservoir is an impoundment in Broome County formed by a dam on the Otselic River that stretches roughly 4 miles. The water covers about 1,200 acres and is accessed through paved trails, boat launches at Dorchester Park, and informal pathways along the shoreline.
Dam construction began in September 1938 and was completed by June 1942 to control flooding in the region. Over time, the impoundment evolved into a recreational destination for the community.
The reservoir emerged from a flood control need and has become a gathering place where locals and visitors enjoy outdoor activities together. The quiet paths along the shore and open grasslands invite people to walk, fish, and spend time on the water.
The area has parking at Dorchester Park and Keibel Road, with wheelchair access and boat launches available. The trails are well-maintained and easy to walk, allowing families and people of different abilities to explore.
Water levels are deliberately managed, with the reservoir larger in summer and shrinking in winter to prevent flooding, though this strategy changed in 2009 to keep levels higher year-round. The area was selected in 2009 to receive native aquatic plants to boost the ecosystem, but the invasive water chestnut appeared the following year.
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