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New York City has one of the largest natural water filtration systems throughout the country, feeding from three reservoirs in upstate New York. Population growth and urbanization encouraged the development of a well-functioning water delivery system which is still in use today. Development of the water delivery system in upstate New York counties caused tensions among residents living in the watershed area. Eventually, these tensions led to mutual understandings by both parties and the subsequent success of the water system as it stands today. Currently, the water system for New York City functions through two main water tunnels and pumps over 1.2 billion gallons of water per day. A third water tunnel is currently in development to supplement the two existing water tunnels fully by 2020. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) maintains a comprehensive watershed protection program to assure New York City’s water quality remains high. Additionally, the DEP maintains drought provisions to protect reserves in the upstate reservoirs during dry periods. Continued development will be needed in New York City’s water supply to ensure fresh, clean drinking water for the residents of New York City.