Aqueducts in Newton Part of New Trail Access Policy

Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority today announced a policy for public access to open space along aqueducts in 14 communities, including the Sudbury and Cochituate aqueducts in Newton.

In addition to the Cochituate and Sudbury aqueducts, the policy sets forth guidelines for the Weston and Wachusett aqueducts as well. A press release explains that these aquaducts once supplied water for Greater Boston, but are now used only as emergency back-up resources.

“These aqueducts follow miles of scenic, tree-lined paths across the landscape, which will be a great addition to the open space in these communities,” said MWRA Executive Director Fred Laskey in a press release. “This is a model that has been in place at the Weston Reservoir for many years and we’ve recently entered into a similar agreement in Natick. It’s been a very successful program and we look forward to expanding it.”

In the announcement Tuesday, Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan and Laskey explained the policy both encourages public access as well as outlines a plan to work "more closely with host communities and non-profits to continue to protect the water supply land."

Those who are interested in walking along the aqueduct trails in Newton can pick up the paths at or .

“This policy is a great example of promoting multiple environmental goals – clean water supply, open space access and connecting people to the outdoors,” said Sullivan in a press release. “We welcome partnerships with local communities to help enhance safety while providing public access to this pristine open space and trail network.”

For more details and information on the trails along the Sudbury and Cochitutate Aqueducts, check out information on the Newton Conservators' website.