Passive Recreation Opportunities

The woods surrounding Lydall reservoir

The Manchester Water and Sewer Department allows passive recreation on properties owned by the Water Department. Residents of Manchester can enjoy walking or hiking on the lands around our surface water supplies. The Water Department allows recreational activities around Globe Hollow, Porter, Howard and Lydall reservoirs in Manchester and around Buckingham reservoir in Glastonbury. The Water Department has constructed a trail system in the area adjacent to the Porter and Howard reservoirs. The trails are reached by parking in the designated area located off Ferguson Road. Access is also available from Finley Street. The three remaining reservoirs are available for use by the public but do not have a trail system at this time. To view pictures of the reservoirs click here.

Residents should remember that dogs and swimming are not permitted in or near the reservoirs!

Residents who would like to use the Water Department lands are required to obtain a passive recreation permit at the Department office located at 125 Spring Street. Applicants must be at least eighteen years old and be either a resident of Manchester or a customer of the Water and Sewer Department. Permits are valid for a period of one year from the date of application. For more information about obtaining a passive recreation permit, call the Department at 647-3201.