Muscoot River facts for kids
The Muscoot River is a small river in New York. It flows into the Croton River. The Muscoot River is about 6 miles (10 kilometers) long. It runs from north to south through Putnam and Westchester counties. This river is an important part of the New York City water supply system. It helps provide drinking water for millions of people in New York City.
Where the Muscoot River Starts
The Muscoot River begins in Putnam County. Its starting point is called the "headwaters." The water comes from two lakes: Kirk Lake and Lake Mahopac. These lakes are near each other in a place called Mahopac, New York.
- Kirk Lake: This lake is a "controlled lake." This means its water levels can be managed. It is part of the New York City water supply system.
- Lake Mahopac: This lake also feeds water into the Muscoot River.
As the river flows south, another small stream joins it. This stream is called Secor Brook. It brings water from Lake Secor.
Journey Through Reservoirs
The Muscoot River flows for about three miles. Then, it reaches the Amawalk Reservoir. This reservoir is in the town of Somers. The river crosses into Westchester County as it enters this reservoir.
After leaving the Amawalk Reservoir, the Muscoot River continues its journey. Another stream, Hallocks Mill Brook, adds its water to the Muscoot. Less than two miles later, the Muscoot River flows into the large Muscoot Reservoir. This reservoir is located near Katonah, New York.
Connecting to New York City's Water
The water from the Muscoot Reservoir then joins with the water from the New Croton Reservoir. From here, the water can go in two main directions:
- To New York City: The water can travel through the New Croton Aqueduct. This is a large underground tunnel that carries water to New York City.
- To the Hudson River: If there is too much water, it flows over a special spillway at the New Croton Dam. This water then goes into the Croton River. The Croton River eventually flows into the Hudson River near Croton-on-Hudson. This is about 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of New York City.
The Muscoot River plays a vital role in making sure that New York City has enough clean drinking water every day.
