Destinations and Tourism

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Reservoir Boating

The Catskill Region is the source of 90% of the drinking water supply for 8 million people in New York City and portions of the Hudson Valley. Six giant reservoirs capture rain, snow and streamflow from many rivers and tributaries that begin in the mountains. The reservoirs have always been a destination for anglers in row boats, but only recently have other non-mechanized craft been allowed to ply their waters. Reservoir boaters must obtain Recreational Access Permits from the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and have their canoes, kayaks, small sailboats, sculls and rowboats steam cleaned at DEP-approved sites.

Access Permits can be obtained quickly and easily at steam cleaning sites, or online. Go to Recreation on DEP’s website, www.nyc.gov/dep.

Boat tags, allowing temporary and seasonal use of a specific reservoir, are issued at steam cleaning sites.

For cleaning locations, boat launch sites, boat rental vendors, outdoor outfitters and other information, click on the reservoir you wish to explore.

Cannonsville Reservoir