Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct is a private, non profit volunteer organization formed to protect and preserve the Old Croton Aqueduct in both Westchester and New York City. The Friends work to raise public awareness of the Aqueduct and trail and to secure the resources that will enable this historic greenway to remain unspoiled in perpetuity.
Mission
The Friends strive to act as a public voice for the Aqueduct as well as a source of information for those interested in its past and future.
ENews
We publish monthly eNews that includes items of historical interest, news of Aqueduct-related activities, and current events potentially affecting the Aqueduct and trail.
Activities
We sponsor talks, lead guided walks of the trail and lead tours inside the Aqueduct tunnel in Ossining and publicize upcoming events. We advocate vigorously for the Aqueduct on various issues throughout its length. We published an award-winning map and guide to the trail, and have worked with the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to post directional signs on the trail that will guide users through the more puzzling sections and crossings. We improve the ecologic health of the trail by removing invasive plants
Ongoing Projects
The Friends recently restored the Keeper’s House on the trail in Dobbs Ferry as a visitor and education center, featuring a permanent exhibit as well as changing displays. The Friends also played an active role in the High Bridge Coalition, which brought about the restoration and reopening of the [delete Old] High Bridge, which carried Croton water from the mainland to Manhattan, and lead guided visits to the bridge. We have installed directional signage in multiple places along the trail. We do ongoing work to remove invasive species from the trail.
The Friends of the Old Croton Aqueduct is a registered 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax deductible.