RIDGEWOOD RESEVOIR

Originally Posted on Land + Artscapes, 9/15/17

The Ridgewood Reservoir is of major historical significance for persons living in New York, yet only few New Yorkers have even heard of it. The reservoir is made up of three holding basins that sit on 50 acres of city owned land that has reverted to wetlands. These three man-made structures once held the drinking water for inhabitants of Brooklyn and Queens.  Whereas the reservoir of Central Park is the highlight of many a marathon runner, this lesser known reservoir is nestled in an almost hidden landscape, frequented by very few.

      One active pond with the pump house in the distance

Thesis Goals

There has been talk of redesigning the reservoir to fit into its vibrant urban surroundings. Plant and wildlife ecologies may be greatly disrupted if this landscape and its structures are repurposed. My concern is for preserving the integrity of the place, creating environmental awareness and education and imbuing a sense of pride for the residents of the area. My research will highlight the history of the reservoir, showcase the significance of its evolution to this date and make recommendations for enhancing the space as a wildlife and educational community destination.

Proposition

Over the recent years proposals have been presented to redesign and repurpose the reservoir. One such proposal included the installation of artificial turf football fields and other sports venues. I propose an intervention that incorporates maintaining the current wilderness aspects of the space as well as the integration of areas for recreation, education and community engagement that are more in tune with the needs of the neighborhood and the wildlife communities.

Domain/Context

H2O is a non-profit agency that strives to highlight the importance of the reservoir as an ecological treasure the city of New York. The company organizes educational tours and meets with community boards to address concerns regarding the use and misuse of the space. H2O has also fought with developers who see the reservoir as an opportunity create golf courses. My research will align with the findings of H2O to bolster their claims for preservation.

The reservoir is part of a larger area that includes designated plots for sports, recreation (including open fires, and hubs of entertainment. Cemeteries are abundant near the reservoir

Mission

My role in this project is partly that of wildlife preservationist. I was afforded the opportunity to work at the reservoir during the summer of 2017. I was struck by its beauty and wildlife and by the levels of invasive species that crowded habitats for wildlife. I witnessed the level of participation and interest of the community, and their attitude towards the space and how they experienced and moved in this environment.

Relevance

There are not many wetland or natural areas in NYC that claim that status of

Discipline

My research will add to the field of Ecological Restoration, Environmental Preservation and Landscape Design. It will also have implications in the field of policy making regarding land use and environmental impacts.

Strategy/response/rationale

-The areas around the reservoir may be viewed as unsafe, overgrown and neglected. There are no authorities in the form of a gatehouse or security guards and individuals see opportunities for vandalism and dumping of garbage.

-Areas that are designated as meadows are not obviously seen as such and plantings are regarded as weeds.  

Project significance/ impact contribution

This project can be used to gauge the restoration of similar sites and to improve conditions of other plant and wildlife communities.  It will also offset health, educational, psychological and commercial benefits to the local community.

There has been interest in bird watching in the area. Research has shown that birds that are listed as endangered species have been seen in vegetation around the reservoir. It is imperative that measures are taken to continue this trend by conservation and expansion of the wetland areas of the resevoir. 

Strategy and references

My research strategy is deductive and constructionist.

Landscape architect, Thomas Rainer, has had much success in meadow restoration. Much can also be learned from the Freshkills land restoration project which shares similar vegetation and wildlife habitats.

Research(able)Design

The NYC department of Parks and recreation may be useful in providing date on the depth and size of the basins as well ads information of plant communities n wildlife. I will also source surveys, site plans and historical maps.

Research methods

-Through neighborhood surveys, GIS data and census data the research will investigate the consequences of an intervention that allows for community input and participation. 

-Citizen scientists will be needed to locate, identify and document plant and wildlife species.

Relevance

So what will the discipline learn from your work and why does it matter?

Feasibility

This project will require significant funding and be completed over a two years. Ongoing monitoring and management will be required.

Strategy/response/rationale

How are native plant communities adversely affected the robust invasive colonies? What types of wildlife will arrive or depart once native habits are restored? How can the community benefit from the designation of the space as a natural reserve? How will education adjust their attitude towards the space?

State the variables/parameters you need to investigate and develop a research design that will enable you to access relevant data.

Select and test methods—detailed procedures, techniques, and units for data collection, analysis, and evaluation.

Anticipated findings  

There may be resistance from community members who think the reservoir should remain hidden and its grounds and paths be free of crowds. Others will want a tamer, less wild landscape than the one I am proposing.

A sense of pride in the history of the community can be created as locals

Steps, Pragmatic Requirements and Scope of the Study

- Access and evaluate the levels of invasive species and actions necessary for their removal.

- Activate existing water bodies to decrease stagnation

- Create additional habitat and areas for aquatic recreation and   education

- Create restricted access to areas for bird watching

- Integrate native plants species into grass areas to enhance meadow ecologies and increase habitats for birds, bees and butterflies

- Implement programs highlighting history of the reservoir, the species of wildlife and native vegetation through regulated activities like educational bird and canoe tours.

Transportation and Circulation Activation, Commerce

The reservoir is not easily accessible by public transport and Visitors walk for twenty to twenty-five minutes to access the nearest subway line. The walk is often lonely and along side an expansive cemetery.

- The surrounding community can be benefit from visitors to the reservoir.  A suggested donation box can help to offset maintenance cost.