Go behind the scenes of the incredible East Park Reservoir in Fairmount Park which has become a significant resting area for migratory birds making their way south down the eastern seaboard. An estimated 150 species of migratory birds visit the reservoir every year!

PLEASE NOTE: The East Park Reservoir is under construction as it will be the new home of the Discovery Center in 2017. Given the construction, the tour will be visiting the west side of the reservoir and will NOT be circling the entire reservoir.

A little history (you’ll get more on the tour!)

This 37 acre artificial lake once provided the city with drinking water and was decommissioned in the 1950s when the population of the city went into decline and the need for water reserves dwindled. By the early 90s all but one basin, which is still in use today, were left to be reclaimed by nature.

The future of the site (you’ll get more on the tour!)

Work has begun at the site on the construction of the brand new Discovery Center, a 14,000 square foot educational hub for leadership training and environmental conservation that is a product of a partnership between Audubon PA and the Philadelphia Outward Bound School. Discovery Center is part of Reimagining the Civic Commons, a project with the underlying premise that parks, libraries and other “civic assets” can be better leveraged to promote greater social and economic integration, retain residents, and foster community and economic development.

A milestone was reached this past July when the City officially leased the land to the partnership, making plans to finally reusing the basin a reality. The design phase of the center is nearing completion and construction is slated to begin this summer.