Chestnut Hill Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Chestnut Hill Reservoir |
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View of Gasson Hall (Boston College) from across the reservoir
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 Chestnut Hill Reservoir
Location in Massachusetts
Chestnut Hill Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | Chestnut Hill, Boston, Massachusetts |
| Coordinates | 42°20′6.30″N 71°9′30.52″W / 42.3350833°N 71.1584778°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Basin countries | United States |
The Chestnut Hill Reservoir is a large reservoir (a human-made lake for storing water). It was built in 1870 to help supply Boston with drinking water. This important reservoir is located in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts.
Even though it's not used for daily water supply anymore, it's kept ready for emergencies. Today, it's also a popular spot for outdoor activities. People enjoy walking or jogging on the 1.56-mile path around the water. The reservoir is also recognized as a historic site. It's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was named a Boston Landmark in 1989.
A Big Help in 2010
In 2010, the Chestnut Hill Reservoir became very important again. On May 1, 2010, a major water pipe broke. This pipe was a key part of Boston's water system. Because of this break, the city needed an emergency water source.
How the Reservoir Stepped In
The Chestnut Hill Reservoir was quickly brought back online. Water from other reservoirs, like Foss and Sudbury, was sent to Chestnut Hill. This helped keep water flowing to Boston homes. Another emergency water source, Spot Pond reservoir, was also used.
At first, people were told to boil their water. This was a safety step because officials worried the water might not be safe. However, after the water was treated with a lot of chlorine, tests showed it was perfectly safe to drink. The Chestnut Hill Reservoir played a big role in helping Boston during this water emergency.
Getting There
The Chestnut Hill Reservoir is easy to reach using Boston's public transportation system, the MBTA Green Line.
- You can get off at the Reservoir station on the Green Line (D branch).
- Another nearby stop is Cleveland Circle on the Green Line (C branch).
- The Chestnut Hill Avenue stop on the Green Line (B branch) is also close.
Images for kids
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The reservoir in January. View of Boston College's Alumni Stadium across the water.
