Quabbin Reservoir

Quabbin Reservoir is a man-made reservoir located in central Massachusetts, United States. The reservoir was created in the 1930s by damming the Swift River, and today it provides drinking water for approximately 2.5 million people in the greater Boston area. The reservoir covers an area of approximately 38.6 square miles, making it one of the largest artificial lakes in the United States. It has a maximum depth of 150 feet and a shoreline of 181 miles. The water is crystal clear and surrounded by 56,000 acres of protected land, including state parks and wildlife management areas. The creation of Quabbin Reservoir required the relocation of four towns and several villages. Today, the only buildings remaining in the former town sites are a few foundations and some historic cemeteries. The remnants of the Swift River Valley's historic farms, homesteads, and logging industries are also visible in the surrounding forests. Popular recreational activities at the Quabbin Reservoir include hiking, fishing, boating, and birdwatching. Visitors can also explore the Quabbin Visitors Center and take guided tours to learn more about the history and ecology of the area.