Waterbury Water Ways

The Waterbury Democrat
February 11, 1941
Chronicling America
Library of Congress (loc.gov)

At that time, Chase Brass & Copper Co. used water from the Great Brook Reservoir, colloquially "Lakewood Lake", to supply their needs.  The reservoir was created specifically for manufacturing purposes.

One week prior, the company suffered huge inventory losses due to a 15-hour rainstorm which flooded their factories.

Water Department Warning

Click here for information regarding an important message for all Waterbury citizens regarding the Water Department and personal safety.

Waterbury
Water Works

Click here for more information on the history of water in Waterbury.

Posted to YouTube: May 21st, 221

External Water

Bodies of water which are located on land which is owned, at least in part, by the City of Waterbury and are outside of, and disconnected from, the City of Waterbury boundaries.  The checked (✓) items have been checked and verified.

1. Branch Brook Basin Reservoir
2. ​Echo Lake (Echo Lake Dam)
3. Hancock Brook Reservoir (Hancock Brook Dam)
4. Waterbury Reservoir #2, Southington (Waterbury Reservoir #2 Dam)
5. Shepaug Reservoir System
   1. Shepaug Reservoir ✓
   2. Cairns reservoir ✓
6. Wigwam Reservoir System
   1. Morris Reservoir ✓
   2. Pitch Reservoir ✓
   3. Wigwam reservoir ✓ ​​

Waterbury Birds

Waterbury, being a city with diverse habitats, is home to various bird species.  Here's a list of birds that you might find in Waterbury:

• American Bald Eagle
• American Goldfinch: Easily identifiable by its bright yellow plumage, particularly in males.
• American Robin (Turdus migratorius): These birds are known for their distinctive red breast and are often seen foraging for worms on lawns.
• Black-capped Chickadee: Recognizable by its black cap and bib, this small bird is known for its cheerful calls.
• ​Blue Jay (Cyanocitta cristata): Blue Jays are striking with their blue and white markings. They are known for their loud calls and are often found in wooded areas.
• Canada Goose (Branta canadensis): These large waterfowl are commonly found in ponds and lakes in the region.
• Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula): Grackles are blackbirds with a distinctive iridescent sheen and are often seen foraging on the ground.
• Crow
• Eastern Bluebird: Often seen in open fields and meadows, these birds are known for their striking blue plumage.
• Eastern Towhee: Recognizable by its distinctive "drink-your-tea" call, often found in brushy areas.
• Eurasian Collared Dove(Streptopelia decaocto)*
• European Starling (Sturnus vulgaris): Recognizable by their dark, iridescent plumage, starlings are often seen in large flocks.
• Great Blue Heron: Often seen near bodies of water, these tall wading birds are skilled hunters.
• Great Egret
• Gulls: many varieties [there is no such thing as a "Sea Gull"
• House Sparrow (Passer domesticus): Common in urban areas, house sparrows are small birds with brown and gray plumage.
• Mallard Duck (Anas platyrhynchos): These ducks are frequently found in ponds and rivers, and the males have vibrant green heads.
• Mourning Dove (Zenaida macroura): These gentle birds are often seen perched on utility wires or feeding on the ground; recognized by their soft cooing.
• Mourning Dove: Common in urban and suburban areas, 
• Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis): Recognizable by the vibrant red plumage of the males, cardinals are a common sight and can be found in gardens and wooded areas.
• Red-tailed Hawk (Buteo jamaicensis): A raptor commonly seen soaring in the skies, red-tailed hawks are known for their broad wings and reddish tails.
• Sharp-Tailed Sandpiper (Calidris acuminata)*
• Summer Tanager (Piranga rubra)*
• White Egret
• White Swan

​Bird populations can vary by season, so you may see different species at different times of the year. Happy birdwatching in Waterbury!


Sources: There are many sources for the above, including: 

• *Connecticut Ornithological Association​

Waterbury's Water Woes: A Closer Look at Local Beach Closures

writtne by Claude, Saturday, July 06, 2024 09:52:14

Waterbury, Connecticut - For decades, residents of the Brass City have grappled with periodic closures of public beaches and swimming areas due to high bacteria levels.

While local health officials have long pointed to geese as the primary culprit, a closer examination reveals a more complex picture of the city's water quality challenges.

The ponds of Fulton Park, the serene waters of Lakewood Park, and the popular state beach at Hop Brook Dam have all faced closures over the years. These shutdowns not only disappoint would-be swimmers but also raise questions about the overall health of Waterbury's waterways.

"The geese have been a persistent problem," says John Smith, a longtime resident and frequent visitor to Fulton Park. "But it seems like there's more to the story than just birds."
Indeed, while geese droppings can contribute to bacterial contamination, experts point to a variety of factors affecting Waterbury's water quality. One significant issue is the city's complex sewer system.

Waterbury operates on a hybrid sewer model. Approximately one-third of the city is served by separate waste and runoff sewer systems, another third has a combined waste and runoff system, and the remaining third has separate systems with runoff water directed into natural waterways. This patchwork approach can lead to inconsistent water management across the city.

Another factor often overlooked is the redirection of natural water flow. Many residential properties in Waterbury have gutters that channel rainwater directly into the municipal sewer system. This practice, while common, prevents a significant amount of water from naturally flowing into local waterways.

"When we divert rainwater into sewers, we're essentially robbing our streams and ponds of their natural water supply," explains Dr. Emily Chen, an environmental scientist at a local university. "This can lead to stagnant water bodies, which are more prone to bacterial growth."

The lack of consistent water flow can exacerbate bacterial issues, especially during hot summer months when water levels are already low. Stagnant water heats up more quickly, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to thrive.

Local officials are beginning to recognize the multifaceted nature of the problem. The Waterbury Department of Public Works has initiated studies to assess the impact of the city's varied sewer systems on water quality. Additionally, there's growing interest in green infrastructure solutions that could help restore natural water flow patterns.

"We're looking at ways to encourage rainwater harvesting and the use of rain gardens," says Michael Johnson, a city planner. "These approaches can help reduce the burden on our sewer system and replenish our natural waterways."

As Waterbury continues to grapple with its water quality issues, it's clear that addressing the problem will require a comprehensive approach. While geese management remains part of the equation, focusing on infrastructure improvements and natural water flow restoration may hold the key to keeping Waterbury's beaches open and its waters clean for future generations.

For now, residents are encouraged to stay informed about beach closures by checking the city's website or calling the health department before planning their aquatic outings. As the city works towards long-term solutions, the community's patience and support will be crucial in navigating these troubled waters.

Archived News

68 Bodies of Water

Waterbury's Will Wins
​Water Ways Water Wars Woes With Washington

That's right, Water War.  The war against Washington ended only in the year 2002, with a court decision form a Rhode Island Judge.  Read the whole government report and decision here.  The New York Times also covered the story here.

Waterbury's Will Wins Water Ways Water Wars Woes With Watertown

City of Waterbury
The Town of Watertown has been court-ordered to pay Waterbury nearly $19M
Various Sources; article; 2023.08.23

Protection Project

Click here for an external link to information about the Waterbury/Watertown Local Protection Project.

15 Dams

1. Belleview Lake Dam
2. East Brass Mill Dam
3. East Mountain Reservoir Dam
4. Great Brook Reservoir Dam
5. ​Hancock Brook Dam
6. Hop Brook Dam (partially in the City of Waterbury, the Borough of Naugatuck, and the Town of Middlebury)
7. John Dees Pond Dam, East Main Street
8. ​Mad River Dam
9. The Mad River Dam #1 is located near Mill Street, not far from the intersection of Cole Street.
10. The Mad River Dam #2 is located nearly at the intersection of Mill Street and Clay Street, in an approximate north-east to south-west orientation.
11. Pin Shop Pond Dam
12. Pritchards Pond Dam
13. Risdon Pond Dam
14. Sperry Pond Dam​​
15. Waterbury Reservoir #2 Dam

Some sources list the Chestnut Hill Dam as being in Waterbury, but it is nearly a mile into Wolcott.  Similarly, some sources list the Echo Lake Dam as being in Waterbury, but it is clearly in Watertown / Oakville.

Fish in
​Waterbury

In the waters around Waterbury, Connecticut, you can find a variety of fish species. The specific types of fish commonly found in the area may vary depending on the bodies of water, such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs. Here are some fish species that are generally found in the waters of Connecticut, including those around Waterbury:

1. Bass: Both largemouth bass and smallmouth bass are common in freshwater bodies like lakes and rivers.
2. Trout: Rainbow trout and brown trout are often stocked in Connecticut rivers and streams for recreational fishing.
3. Panfish: This category includes species like bluegill, sunfish, and crappie. They are commonly found in various freshwater habitats.
4. Catfish: Channel catfish and bullhead catfish can be found in rivers and lakes.
5. Pickerel: Chain pickerel are predatory fish that inhabit ponds, lakes, and slow-moving rivers.
6. Perch: Yellow perch and white perch are also common in freshwater environments.
7. Suckerfish: Species like white suckerfish may be present in rivers and streams.

When fishing in the waters around Waterbury, it's essential to be aware of local regulations and guidelines to ensure a sustainable and legal fishing experience. Additionally, factors like season, weather, and specific water bodies can influence the types of fish you might encounter.

Waterbury Considers Innovative Water Recirculation Project
[This is a Could-be-Fact, but actually a Fully Fictional, Editorial\


In a bold move to address ongoing water quality issues, city officials are exploring an ambitious plan to recirculate a portion of treated water back to the headwaters of the Naugatuck River as it enters Waterbury. This innovative approach, a brainchild of long-time community advocate Vincent E. Martinelli, Jr., could potentially improve river flow, enhance water quality, and create a more sustainable water management system for the city.

The proposed project would involve constructing a new water main to transport approximately one-third of the treated effluent from Waterbury's water treatment plant back to the point where the Naugatuck River first enters the city limits. This recirculation concept has sparked interest among environmental engineers and city planners alike.

"We're always looking for creative solutions to our water challenges," says Maria Rodriguez, Waterbury's Director of Public Works. "This recirculation idea could be a game-changer for our river ecosystem and overall water management strategy."

The potential benefits of such a system are numerous. By increasing the flow rate of the Naugatuck River, particularly during dry periods, the project could help dilute pollutants and reduce the concentration of bacteria that have led to beach closures in the past. Additionally, the increased flow could improve oxygen levels in the water, benefiting aquatic life.

However, the proposal is not without its challenges. The construction of a new water main would require significant investment and could cause temporary disruptions to city infrastructure. There are also regulatory hurdles to consider, as any project affecting river flow would need approval from state and federal environmental agencies.

Dr. Alan Chen, a hydrologist at the University of Connecticut, offers a cautiously optimistic perspective: "In theory, recirculating treated water could have positive impacts on river health. However, we'd need to conduct thorough environmental impact studies to ensure there are no unintended consequences."

One concern is the potential impact on downstream communities. While the recirculated water would be treated to meet all applicable standards, there may be questions about how this might affect the river's natural flow patterns and ecosystems further along its course.
​
City officials emphasize that the proposal is still in its early stages. "We're committed to a thorough evaluation process," Rodriguez explains. "This includes consultations with environmental experts, engagement with the community, and comprehensive cost-benefit analyses."

The financial aspect of the project is a key consideration. Initial estimates suggest the construction of the required infrastructure could cost tens of millions of dollars. City planners are exploring various funding options, including federal grants and public-private partnerships.

Despite the challenges, many residents are intrigued by the potential of the project. "It's exciting to see our city thinking outside the box," says long-time Waterbury resident Tom Jenkins. "If this can help keep our beaches open and improve the health of the Naugatuck, I think it's worth exploring."

The proposal also aligns with broader efforts to revitalize the Naugatuck River, which has seen significant improvements in recent decades following years of industrial pollution. A healthier river could boost recreational opportunities and potentially drive economic development along its banks.

As Waterbury continues to grapple with water quality issues, this recirculation project represents a novel approach to an ongoing challenge. While many questions remain to be answered, the proposal has ignited a valuable conversation about water management and environmental stewardship in the city.

In the coming months, city officials plan to hold public forums to gather community input and provide updates on feasibility studies. As Waterbury looks to the future, the potential for a more circular and sustainable water system offers an intriguing possibility for this historic Connecticut city.

written by Claude, Saturday, July 06, 2024 09:54:56

Waterbury Embraces Rain Barrels: A Solution to Multiple Water Woes

As the Brass City grapples with its complex water management challenges, a simple yet effective solution is gaining traction among residents and city planners alike: rain barrels. These unassuming containers, when connected to home gutter systems, could address several of Waterbury's pressing water-related issues, from alleviating strain on the municipal system to improving ecological health and even saving residents money.

"It's a multifaceted solution to a multifaceted problem," explains Sarah Thompson, a local environmental activist. "Rain barrels can help on so many fronts, it's almost hard to believe something so simple could be so impactful."

One of the most significant benefits of widespread rain barrel adoption could be the reduction of strain on Waterbury's hybrid sewer system. Currently, during heavy rainfalls, the system can become overwhelmed, leading to a troubling consequence.

"Unfortunately, when our system is overloaded, we sometimes have no choice but to release untreated sewage into the Naugatuck River," admits one City Engineer.  "By capturing rainwater at the source with rain barrels, we could significantly reduce these overflow events, protecting our river and its ecosystem."

The potential benefits extend beyond environmental concerns. Waterbury provides municipal water to over 99% of its residents and businesses, and the energy required to pump and treat this water is substantial. By using stored rainwater for outdoor purposes, residents could reduce demand on the municipal supply.

"Less demand means less pumping, less treatment, and ultimately, lower costs for the city," he explains. "These savings could eventually translate to lower tax rates for residents."

The financial benefits for homeowners are more immediate. Waterbury's water bills are partially based on wastewater taxes. By reducing the amount of water entering the sewer system, residents could see direct savings on their water bills. Additionally, having a reliable source of water for gardens could encourage more residents to grow their own produce, potentially leading to healthier eating habits and further cost savings.

"I started using a rain barrel last year, and I've already noticed a difference in my water bill," says longtime resident Maria Rodriguez.  "Plus, my vegetable garden has never looked better. I'm eating healthier and saving money at the same time."

The city is also considering more structured approaches to rainwater management.  "We're exploring the possibility of requiring all new residential and commercial construction to include rainwater management systems that more closely mimic nature's water cycle," sources reveal.  "This could have a significant long-term impact on our city's water management."

Another often-overlooked benefit of rain barrels is erosion control. Many properties in Waterbury currently allow rainwater to flow freely, which can lead to soil erosion. By capturing and slowly releasing this water, rain barrels could help maintain soil integrity across the city.

An ecologist at a city university, points out yet another potential benefit: "When we allow rainwater to slowly percolate into the soil, rather than rushing it into sewers, we're supporting a healthier soil ecosystem. This could lead to a reduced need for lawn and garden chemicals, as the natural soil system becomes more robust and self-sustaining."

However, challenges remain in promoting widespread adoption. Some residents have expressed aesthetic concerns, while others worry about maintenance and mosquito breeding. City officials are working to address these issues through education and potential incentive programs.

"We're considering a rebate program for rain barrel installation," says one Alderman. "We've seen success with similar programs in other cities, and we believe it could work well here in Waterbury."

As Waterbury continues to navigate its complex water management issues, rain barrels represent a grassroots approach that empowers residents to be part of the solution. While not a cure-all for the city's water challenges, the widespread adoption of these simple devices could contribute significantly to a more sustainable, cost-effective, and resilient water system.

"Every drop counts," another ecologist reminds us.  "If we all do our part, even with something as simple as a rain barrel, we can make a real difference in the health of our city's waterways, the efficiency of our infrastructure, and even our own wallets and well-being."
​
As summer approaches and thoughts turn to garden care and water conservation, Waterbury residents have an opportunity to make a positive impact, one rain barrel at a time. The future of the city's water management may well begin in their own backyards.

written by Claude Sonnet

1. Bare Ass Beach
   1. ​unofficial yet referred to as such for nearly 100 years
   2. is part of the Great Brook Reservoir
2. Beacon Hill River
3. Beaver Pond Brook 
4. Belleview Lake
5. Cairns reservoir
6. Chase Brook #1
   1. ​first appears seemingly out of no-where on 460 Bucks Hill Road, near the west side border of an unaddressed property which is due west of 105 Grassy Hill Road
   2. Chase Brook seems to magically change it's name to Great Brook on, or immediately east of 88 Montoe Road
   3. ​where it is never seen again
7. Chase Brook #2
   1. ​first appears seemingly out of no-where on the south side of Homer Street
      1. ​flowing roughly westerly
   2. is tributed by Hancock Brook
      1. ​where is flows roughly southerly
   3. ​tributes into the Naugatuck River
   4. where it is never seen again
8. City Mills Ponds
9. East Mountain Brook
10. East Mountain Reservoir
11. ​Flaggy Swamp
    1. ​Evidence suggests that Flaggy Swamp is what we now colloquially refer to as the Lower Fulton Park Pond.  It may have included all of the area south of the current Greenwod Avenue on the western side of the Lewis Fulton Memorial Park.  The entire area is still swampish, and, during the rainy season, outright swampy.
12. Frost Road Pond
13. Fulton Park Pond - Upper
14. Fulton Park Pond - Lower
15. Great Brook Reservoir (a.k.a. Lakewood Pond, Lakewood Lake, and Lake Wood);
16. Great Brook
    1. Great Brook runs roughly southwest through much of Waterbury,
       1. beginning at Great Brook Reservoir;
          1. the reservoir is fed by Chase Brook;
       2. Great Brook feeds Belleview Lake,
       3. then continues to East Main Street near Brook Street where it vanishes;
       4. it reappears at the intersection of Grand Street, Union Street, and South Main Street;
       5. it continues southwesterly until it nearly meets the Naugatuck Railroad in the South End, then runs roughly south-south-east until it tributes the Naugatuck River, roughly a quarter of a mile north-north-east of where the Mad River tributes the Naugatuck River.
17. Great River
18. Grigg's Pond - between Robinson Street where it meets North Main Street, and Noera Street near it's north-north-east end
19. Hancock Brook
20. Hancock Pond
21. Hills Pond #1
22. Hills Pond #2
23. Hop Brook
    1. ​Enters the City on the 285-acre portion of Hop Brook State Park (in Waterbury)
    2. Merges with Wooster Brook
    3. Empties, along with Wooster Brook, into Hop Brook Lake
    4. Exits the lake, while still in Waterbury
    5. Travels out of the City of Waterbury and into Waterbury's Borough of Naugatuck
24. Hopeville Pond Brook
25. Huntingdon Avenue Playground
26. John Dees Ponds
27. Lake Wequapauset
    1. ​appears seemingly out of no-where east of Boyden Street near Society Hill Road, Yorktown Ridge, Cathy Lane, and other points south
    2. has an un-named distributary (which seemingly vanishes)
28. Lakewood Upper Lake (also see Great Brook Reservoir)
29. Lakewood Lake (also see Great Brook Reservoir)
30. Lakewood Pond (also see Great Brook Reservoir)
31. Little Brook
32. Long Meadow Brook
33. Mac's Brook
    
    1. from the Wigwam Swamp in Buck's Hill to Pine Hole
    2. named after Daniel MacNamara
       
34. Mad River - the Mad River descends into Waterbury from Wolcott, swirling through much of the city multi-directionally, until it ends as tributing the Naugatuck River just shy of the Borough of Naugatuck.
35. Manhan River (Manhan sometimes appears as Mahan, Mannahan, and Manhattan)
36. Martinelli's Pond (thought to be part of the Great Brook Reservoir system)
37. Mattatuck River
38. Mill River
    1. ​Now known as the Mad River
39. Morris Reservoir
40. Mud Hole
    1. ​A small pond within Hamilton Park
41. Naugatuck River
    1. ​Also Known as
       1. ​Mattatuck River
       2. Mattattock River
       3. Manhan River
       4. Mahan River
       5. Meadow River
       6. Mannahan River
       7. ​Manhattan River
42. Pitch Reservoir
43. Pritchard's Pond
44. (private) pond, on one of the Blue Blazes trails, north of Waterbury's Mattatuck Forest
45. Rifle Range Pond
46. Risdon Pond
47. ​Roaring River
    1. ​Now known as the Mad River
48. Shepaug Reservoir
49. Sled Hall Brook
50. Sperry Brook
51. Spruce Brook
52. Steel River
    1. ​Also known as Steel's River
    2. Also known as Steel's Brook
    3. ​Named after Ensign Samuel Steele
53. Tamarack Swamp
54. Toantic Brook
55. Toantic Pond
    1. ​Documented in 1703, 1711, 1708, 1753, and 1768
56. Tracy's Pond
57. Turkey Hill Brook
58. (Unnamed) Pond, Blackman Road
59. (Unnamed) Underground brook, at Grove Street
60. Waterbury Green
61. Waterbury Reservoir #2 (located entirely in Naugatuck, a borough of Waterbury, and owned entirely by Waterbury)
62. Waterbury River
63. Welton Pond #1 (largely in Wolcott)
64. Welton Pond #2 (largely in Wolcott)
65. Welton's Brook
66. Wigwam Brook
    
    1. ​from Wigwam Swamp to Pine Hole
       
67. Wigwam reservoir
68. Wigwam Swamp
69. Wooster Brook​​
    1. ​Begins in Watertown
    2. Feeds into Tracey's Pond
    3. Leaves Tracey's Pond at the southern tip of the pond
    4. Exits City properties, leaving an unaddressed Umberfield Road property and into a State of Connecticut property
    5. Exits that property
    6. It revisits the City, barely kissing an unaddressed Southwest Road property for a brief few hundred feet before heading out-of-town again
    7. Then it re-enters the City on an unaddressed Bristol Street Property
    8. Finally, on that same 285-acre parcel, known as Hop Brook Park, a Connecticut State Park, it converges into Hop Brook, and continues into Hop Brook Lake
       1. ​It is unclear whether it meets Welton Brook
    9. ​Here, it maintains itself as Wooster Brook, emptying into Hop Brook Lake, and never exits the lake (Hop Brook, however, regains it's name as it exits Hop Brook Lake​

Waterbury: A City Shaped by Water and Industry

Waterbury, Connecticut, known by many monikers including the Brass City, the Brass Capital of the World, and the Time Capital of the World, has a long and tumultuous history with water. 

Originally named Metatekoke, meaning "land without trees" by Native Americans - possibly due to centuries of excessive flooding - the city later earned its current name from European settlers who recognized the abundance of flowing waters and underground burrows that freely coursed through the area.


A History of Floods

The Great Flood of 1955 wasn't the first time that Waterbury faced nature's watery wrath. On July 30, 1897, a significant flood event foreshadowed the city's ongoing struggle with its waterways. Unforgiving rainstorms swelled the Naugatuck River to unprecedented heights, causing the once-mighty Manhan River to overflow its banks.

The flood's impact was far-reaching:

• About 50 feet of the New York New Haven Hartford Railroad Company's track was washed away, halting traffic.
• The Young Men's Christian Association park was submerged.
• While the Great Brook remained contained, Little Brook went "on the rampage."
• Cellars in the city center were inundated.
• The Mill River (now known as the Mad River) and all waterways within the "City of Neighborhoods" were affected.

The Changing Face of Waterbury's Waterways

The Naugatuck and Manhan Rivers, once nearly parallel from just north of the city center southward, have seen significant changes over time. The Manhan River, once three times the size of the Naugatuck, has been reduced to near non-existence due to the capture of natural rainwaters into the city's man-made sewer system and the effects of industrialization.


Water: The Lifeblood of Industry

Despite the challenges posed by flooding, Waterbury's abundant water resources played a crucial role in its industrial development. Known in the 19th and early 20th centuries as "the city with the sweetest water in all of the nation," Waterbury's waterway system became the backbone of its thriving Brass, Copper, and Fabrication industries.

The city's manufacturing prowess, particularly in brass products such as munitions and time products like gyros for airplanes and timers for bombs, made Waterbury the number one target for attack during World War II.

Looking to the FutureToday, Waterbury stands at a crossroads, both literally and figuratively.  Its location at the intersection of Connecticut State Highway Route 8 and U.S. Interstate Highway I-84, combined with its generous supply of natural and spring waters and the availability of many high-ceiling buildings, positions the city as a potential mecca for the brewing industry.
​
As Waterbury moves forward, it continues to navigate the delicate balance between harnessing its water resources for economic growth and managing the ever-present risk of flooding. The city's resilience in the face of natural disasters and industrial changes serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Brass City.

written by Claude Sonnet