Indian Brook Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Indian Brook Reservoir |
|
|---|---|
Orthophoto of Indian Brook Reservoir, 2017
|
|
 Indian Brook Reservoir
Location in Vermont
|
|
| Location | Essex, Vermont |
| Coordinates | 44°32′06″N 73°05′55″W / 44.53499°N 73.09855°W |
| Type | Reservoir |
| Surface area | 0.24 km2 (0.093 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 161 m (528 ft) |
The Indian Brook Reservoir is a 58-acre (about 235,000 square meters) reservoir located in Essex, Vermont. A reservoir is like a big, artificial lake that stores water. This reservoir is the main feature of the Indian Brook Town Conservation Area, which is a special place for nature and outdoor activities.
Contents
History of Indian Brook Reservoir
Why the Reservoir Was Built
The Indian Brook Reservoir was created to help with the growing need for water in Chittenden County. In the early 1900s, there were several dry periods, called droughts. These droughts meant that the village of Essex Junction needed a reliable water supply.
To solve this problem, Essex Junction bought 501 acres of land in 1955. In 1957, they hired engineers to build a dam across Indian Brook. This dam held back the water, creating the 58-acre reservoir. It became the main source of water for the village. The land around the reservoir was set aside as the Indian Brook Town Conservation Area.
Changes in Water Use
By the early 1970s, Essex Junction was growing quickly. The reservoir could no longer provide enough water for everyone. So, in 1973, the village connected to the Champlain Water District. This meant they no longer needed the Indian Brook Reservoir for their water supply.
Because the village no longer used the reservoir, they decided to sell the land. In 1977, after a public process, the Indian Brook property was sold to private developers for $167,000.
The Town Buys Back the Land
In 1986, the town of Essex decided to buy the land back from the private developers. On December 31, 1986, the town purchased the property for $435,000. A group called The Nature Conservancy helped by donating $16,000. After the purchase, the land was set aside for public outdoor activities.
Improvements to the Area
In 1988, the water level in the reservoir was temporarily lowered. This allowed for small repairs to the dam. Many other improvements were also made to the area. Parking lots and roads were upgraded, and a place for boats to launch was created. Picnic spots were added, and old buildings from the water treatment plant were removed. New park signs and trail markers were also put up to help visitors.
Wildlife at Indian Brook Reservoir
Fish Species
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department helps keep the reservoir full of fish. They regularly add different types of trout. You can find brook trout, brown trout, and rainbow trout swimming in the waters here.
Bird Habitats
Near the reservoir, there is a known rookery for blue herons. A rookery is a place where many birds gather to nest and raise their young. These large, graceful birds can often be seen near the water.
Hunting Rules
While hunting is allowed in some parts of the park, it is not permitted close to the reservoir. You cannot hunt within 500 feet of the reservoir itself. This rule helps protect the wildlife and ensures safety for visitors enjoying the water.
