How much do you know about NYC's complex water supply system?

Study Notes

The Controversy Over New York City's Water Supply

In 1995, a Congressional Act targeting the safety of the nation's water supply systems led to attention being focused on the current state of New York City's water supply.
New York City's water supply system grew from a series of local reservoirs to complex aqueduct systems that carried water to the City from upstate New York.
The system encompasses over 5000 square kilometers across eight counties and stretches downstate to NYC via a complex of aqueducts and tunnels.
The system supplies water to nearly half of the population of New York State, including residents, businesses, commuters, and tourists.
Increasing human population and development in watershed communities exert pressure on natural water flows that supply the water supply system.
Expanding populations in New York City exert pressure on the system in order to supply a growing downstate need.
Prior to the 1980s, drinking water from the Catskill/Delaware watersheds and the Croton water supply system was unfiltered.
In the late 1980s, public health concerns regarding outbreaks of waterborne illnesses across the country raised awareness of water quality and health issues.
In response, Congress passed the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1986 and the EPA promulgated the Surface Water Treatment Rule (SWTR) to protect drinking water sources against microbial contamination.
NYC was faced with a choice between two options: filter the water or satisfy the provisions of the SWTR for unfiltered water.
The controversy over the New York City water supply is about balancing the drinking water needs of millions of people with the needs of watershed communities.
Pressures from all sides, along with the prospect of extensive litigation and political maneuvering, are threatening to destabilize years of progress on the safety of the water from upstate watersheds.

Description

Can you navigate the complex controversy surrounding New York City's water supply? Test your knowledge on the history, infrastructure, and challenges facing the system that provides drinking water to millions. From watershed communities to public health concerns, this quiz will dive into the intricacies of balancing the needs of a growing population with the sustainability of natural water flows. Don't underestimate the importance of this vital resource - take the quiz now and see how much you know!