Watershed Recreation Program at Oradell Reservoir

You don't have to go far to experience some great fishing, birding or hiking. Right next door to New Milford is United Water's Oradell Reservoir which is open to the public to enjoy from April 1 through Nov. 30, seven days a week from sunrise to sunset.

United Water issues permits to those who are interested in joining their Watershed Recreation program. Badges must be worn at all times and participants must stay in designated areas for the program as indicated on the United Water map. The cost per season is $25 for an adult badge and $15 for children or seniors age 62 or older.

Parking permits issued by United Water must be displayed in car windows as well. Participants will be issued a key to the gates to gain access and they must be locked upon entering and exiting.

The United Water Watershed Recreation Program brochure explains how important it us for participants to follow the rules.

"As always, everyone shares the responsibility for keeping our drinking water safe and pure. So be aware of how your actions and those of others may affect the environment, and help keep our water supply and watershed buffer lands clean of debris and litter."

There is a five-mile long trail at the reservoir that covers more than 90 acres which can be accessed from an entrance at Main Street in Emerson. Several local and state groups came together to create the trail as well as build the benches located along the trail. 

If you plan to fish, a valid New Jersey fishing license is required for those age 16 and older. 

"The following fish have been caught in the reservoirs: large mouth bass, small mouth bass, carp, yellow perch, white perch, sunfish and catfish," according to United Water.

Birding is also a favorite activity at the site. 

"The following birds have been seen on our property: bald eagle, black-throated blue warbler, common loon, eastern kingbird, great blue heron, greater scaup, mallard duck, mute swan, osprey, pied-billed grebe, red-tailed hawk, ring-billed gull, snowy egret and tufted titmouse," according to United Water.

Here are some additional rules:

• Children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult
• Food can be brought in, but United Water asks participants to be sure and clean up after themselves and carry out trash
• Alcoholic beverages are prohibited
• Campfires, biking, hunting and barbecue grills are prohibited
• No swimming or wading