ABSTRACT
The New York City (NYC) water supply system includes three upstate watersheds that span 1,972 square miles. The system’s history is one of ongoing involvement and investment by the city in its upstate watersheds and the communities within them. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP), the agency responsible for the operation, management, and maintenance of water supply infrastructure and protection, has engaged in an extensive land protection program to maintain high-quality water supplies. NYC DEP has worked to leverage common interests and build mutually beneficial relationships between upstate and downstate landowners and encourage source water protection efforts.
