The Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, named after one of the several celebrities who have enjoyed regularly frequenting the environs, is a large body of water that is estimated to contain in excess of a billion gallons of liquid. It covers an extent of approximately 106 acres occupying about one-eighth of the famed Central Park in which it is located. The artificial lake was originally created in 1862 to supply the city with clean water. It is no longer made use of to supply water requirements for New York residents, but it still supplies water for the Harlem Meer and the Pool.
The Reservoir is a popular leisure destination for both residents and foreign visitors. It is noted for its 1.58 mile running track which encircles the vast extent of water. Influential people who have frequently been seen jogging here include Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Madonna and Bill Clinton. The site offers an almost tangible ambience of solitude and tranquillity which uplifts the spirits of any visitor.
At one time an unattractive seven-foot tall chain fence obscured the views from the location, but today this unappealing feature has been removed and replaced with a four foot steel fence. Thereby visitors are able to enjoy an uninterrupted view of the sensational vistas of the surrounding city and the park.
The environs of the Reservoir contain numerous natural aspects which never fail to captivate the beholder. It is particularly attractive when the pink Yoshino and Kanzan cherries are in full bloom. The appealing rhododendrons which are found in the area were a donation from a resident received in 1909. These form a major ecological sanctuary, with over 20 resident species; these include the well known
Canada geese and mallards as well as the rarer loons, coots, wood ducks, cormorants, herons, egrets and grebes. Found both during overwintering and migration, these appealing varieties have made the site a popular location for bird watching enthusiasts. With all these attractions, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir never disappoints the curious visitor.
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