A restoration project at Ridgewood Reservoir in Highland Park is helping restore one of New York City’s remaining freshwater wetlands while strengthening its ability to absorb stormwater and reduce flooding in surrounding neighborhoods, according to WNYC.
Restoration workers have spent the summer removing about 15,000 cubic feet of invasive phragmites from the reservoir, which sits in a section of Highland Park that is closed to the public. The work has coincided with the return of native wildlife, including snapping turtles, lizards and fishing spiders, to the wetland habitat.
The restoration is being led by NYC H2O, an environmental organization focused on New York City’s water systems. The group’s work is aimed at protecting the reservoir’s ecological health while preserving its ability to function as natural infrastructure.
“Otherwise, it would go downhill and flood the neighborhoods down the hill, mainly Cypress Hills and East New York. So this is also an incredible piece of green infrastructure,” said Matt Malina, director of the group NYC H2O that’s leading the Ridgewood Reservoir restoration work.
Ridgewood Reservoir was built in the 19th century and once served as a source of drinking water for Brooklyn. After its use as a reservoir ended, the area developed into a freshwater wetland that supports a range of plant and animal species.
Today, the wetland provides another important service. Wetlands can absorb and slow stormwater, helping reduce the amount of water that reaches streets and sewer systems during heavy rainfall. That role is becoming increasingly important as New York City experiences more intense storms linked to climate change.
The reservoir is particularly significant for communities near Highland Park, including Cypress Hills and East New York, where heavy rainfall can contribute to flooding. Maintaining the wetland therefore provides both ecological and practical benefits for nearby residents.
The restoration also reflects a broader shift in how New York City approaches stormwater management, with natural waterways and wetlands increasingly viewed as part of the city’s green infrastructure. A 2021 report from the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation and the Natural Areas Conservancy examined the role of the city’s remaining natural areas in reducing storm impacts.
As restoration continues, Ridgewood Reservoir is being preserved not only as an important habitat but also as a natural resource that can help protect surrounding communities from flooding.
