City officials are warning that the suburban reservoirs supplying 10% of New York City’s renowned drinking water are becoming saltier due to decades of road salt usage near the system. Without intervention, these reservoirs may need to be abandoned in the future. A recent study suggests that while action doesn’t need to be taken until the early 2100s, the increasing salinity could impact the unique taste of New York City’s water, known as the “champagne of tap water,” and poses a challenge for the system serving over 9 million people.
The Croton Water System, established in 1842 to supply water to Manhattan, now consists of 12 reservoirs and three controlled lakes north of the city. The study shows a significant rise in chloride concentrations, indicating salinization, in the main reservoir over the past few decades. Without changes, chloride levels are projected to surpass the state’s contamination limits by 2108.
The issue of rising salinity extends across the city’s upstate reservoirs, except for those in the Delaware and Catskill watersheds. The primary culprits are road salt, sewage discharges, and water softeners. Actions proposed include costly water treatment technologies like reverse osmosis or blending Croton water with less saline sources. However, these solutions may not be feasible for nearby municipalities reliant on the Croton system.
City officials are considering local road salt reduction measures as a practical approach to combat salinity. Potential solutions include promoting alternatives to salt for road treatment, using plow sensors to monitor temperatures, and controlling salt application during plowing maneuvers. State Senator Pete Harckham views the situation as concerning and supports legislation to address the road salt issue, including a study focused on the Croton watershed.
He stated that it is essential for state agencies, local governments, and everyone to unite on this issue, as it presents a significant challenge.
