I went to Metropolitan Waterworks Museum on January 26.
Waterworks Museum is located near the Reservoir Station. There are three types of engines there. The first is the Leavitt pumping engine, which was built in 1894. It was a lead pump and was considered efficient at the time. However, the complicated and challenging design and the speed of operation made the engine unusable for a long time. The second is the Allis engine, which was built in 1898. Compared to the first engine, it was more efficient in saving fuel, so it was easier to maintain and was used for a longer period. The third is the Worthington-Snow pumping engine, which was built in 1922. It is the most efficient and quickest operating engine of the three. I noticed that all the machines were large, but as technology evolved, they became smaller in size and easier to use.
Also, I was able to see not only the engines but also a demonstration of how water flows and gets dirty. I learned that water becomes dirty when it passes through various places such as forests and concrete roads. I also learned the eight watershed protection tools. I think that Aquatic Buffer is an excellent way to protect the river banks to keep the water clean. Since the theme of my presentation is poverty, I would like to use these eight as solutions to improve the lack of fresh water in developing countries.
I also learned about water-related issues in different countries. We read an article about Mexico and learned about the water shortage there. In addition, climate change is worsening droughts and floods, making it more difficult to get fresh water. There is also a lack of water to support the ground. It was very interesting to learn about the water issues in other groups such as China, Japan, etc. Also, I was surprised to learn about the gap in water problems and the minority communities that do not have access to freshwater. In particular, I realized that people living in areas with many factories cannot get clean water because the harmful chemicals produced by the factories harm the water.
Through this field trip, I learned about the history of water in Boston, the three engines, and water issues in different countries, which I had never known before. I would like to know what we can do to supply clean water to developing countries. Also, I recommend Waterworks Museum to anyone who wants to know about the system of engines and various water problems.
Haruka Yamamoto