Cannonsville Reservoir, reservoir in Delaware County, New York
Cannonsville Reservoir is a large body of water in Delaware County that functions as part of New York City's water system and can hold nearly 96 billion gallons when full. The water flows through underground tunnels and aqueducts across vast distances to the city, supplying millions of people with drinking water.
The reservoir entered service in 1964 after a dam was built on the West Branch of the Delaware River, creating one of four reservoirs in the Delaware system. It is the newest in this network and was constructed to meet New York City's growing water demand.
The reservoir is part of the water system that serves New York City, and this role shapes how local people understand the place. The surroundings are tended by people who grasp the significance of the reservoir for millions of people, and this purpose runs through everyday perceptions of the location.
Visitors can use the reservoir for fishing and boating, but must follow rules that protect the location and allow access for everyone. Motorboats are not permitted, and only registered and inspected rowboats are allowed, so check the current regulations with the New York City Department of Environmental Conservation before your visit.
The underground Delaware Aqueduct that carries water from the reservoir to the city stretches about 85 miles and runs beneath the Hudson River. This underground structure is one of America's longest water conduits and represents a remarkable 20th-century engineering achievement.
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