Tomhannock Reservoir facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Tomhannock Reservoir |
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 Tomhannock Reservoir
Location in New York
Tomhannock Reservoir
Location in the United States
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| Location | New York |
| Coordinates | 42°50′43″N 73°32′45″W / 42.84528°N 73.54583°W |
| Type | reservoir |
| Max. length | 5.5 miles (8.9 km) |
| Water volume | 12.3 billion US gallons (47,000,000 m3) |
The Tomhannock Reservoir is a large, man-made lake that provides drinking water for the city of Troy, New York. It is located about 6.5 miles (10.5 km) northeast of Troy, in a town called Pittstown. This reservoir is about 5.5 miles (8.9 km) long. When it is completely full, it holds a massive 12.3 billion US gallons (46.5 million cubic meters) of water! The water here is very clean and safe to drink. Many people also enjoy fishing at the reservoir, both in warm weather and during winter for ice fishing.
Building the Tomhannock Reservoir
The idea to build the Tomhannock Reservoir started a long time ago. Construction began in 1900. It was designed to replace older water sources like the Oakwood, Brunswick, and Lansingburgh Reservoirs. The Tomhannock Reservoir officially started providing water in 1906.
Improving the Water System
After the reservoir opened, workers spent eight years repairing the main pipe that carried water. This pipe was about 33 inches (84 cm) wide. To make sure the city always had enough water, a second pipe, about 30 inches (76 cm) wide, was added.
In 1952, new equipment was installed. This equipment helped to clean the water by adding chlorine. It also measured the water and added lime, which helps balance the water's acidity.
Expanding Water Service
By 1960, a study showed that the Tomhannock Reservoir could provide water for more than just Troy. It could also serve nearby areas in southern Rensselaer County. These areas included East Greenbush, North Greenbush, Brunswick, parts of Schaghticoke, and West Sand Lake.
In the early 1960s, a special water treatment plant was built. This plant filters the water, making it even cleaner. It also adds other helpful substances like alum, carbon, potassium permanganate, and fluoride to improve water quality and safety.
