MORE INFORMATION MWRA tested new crest gates at the Wachusset Spillway. (larger image) THE MWRA WATER SYSTEM Larger Image | About the MWRA Water System

MWRA tested a new crest gate at Wachusett Reservoir spillway on July 9.

Crest gates are hinged gates used for precise water level control. They are hydraulically operated to allow for opening and closing in case of power outages or floods.

As part of the testing, The Wachusett gate was opened and closed under several planned scenarios. Amounts of water released during testing ranged from small pulses to 600 million gallons per day.

It is anticpated that the new gates will reduce energy use and allow better control of water discharge levels over the Lancaster Mill Pond Dam. MWRA is monitoring changes in downstream water levels.

The 65 billion-gallon Wachusset Reservoir and the 412 billion-gallon Quabbin Reservoir supply drinking water to 2.5 million people in 50 Massachusetts cities and towns.

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Updated July 30, 2008