NYC Reservoir Expansion Considered Amid Drought and Sea Level Rise Concerns
The Delaware River Basin Commission is evaluating options to increase water storage, including expanding the Cannonsville Reservoir, to address future climate challenges.
The Delaware River Basin Commission is evaluating options to increase water storage, including expanding the Cannonsville Reservoir, to address future climate challenges.
· Updated
New York City's Cannonsville Reservoir, a key source of drinking water, may be expanded as the Delaware River Basin Commission plans for future water security. The commission is considering increasing the reservoir's capacity in response to past droughts and anticipated impacts of climate change, such as sea level rise.
The Cannonsville Reservoir is the city's third-largest water source, and the Delaware River Basin Commission manages the watershed that supplies water to New York, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. New York City relies on this basin for approximately half of its drinking water.
In 2024, the city experienced its first drought warning in over two decades, which led to a halt in planned repairs for the Delaware Aqueduct. During this period, reservoir levels dropped significantly, highlighting the vulnerability of the city's water supply.
The Delaware River Basin Commission has been exploring options for water storage since 2020, considering over 2,500 possibilities, including expanding existing reservoirs and building new ones. A feasibility study for expanding Cannonsville Reservoir is currently underway, expected to provide findings by mid-2028.
This initiative is a collaborative effort between New York City and the commission, aiming to enhance freshwater storage to support the river's ecology and communities during extreme drought conditions.
FAQ
Why is the Cannonsville Reservoir expansion being considered?
The expansion is being considered to address concerns about future droughts and the impacts of sea level rise on the city's drinking water supply.
Who is managing the evaluation of the reservoir expansion?
The Delaware River Basin Commission, a federal interstate agency, is managing the evaluation of potential reservoir expansions.
