Oradell Reservoir

The Oradell Reservoir is located in the borough of Oradell, in northeastern New Jersey in the United States. The reservoir is fed by the Hackensack River and serves as a part of the Suez New York City water supply system.

History

The Oradell Reservoir was created in 1923 when the Hackensack Water Company built the Oradell Dam across the Hackensack River. The reservoir is named for the borough of Oradell, which was incorporated in 1894 and derived its name from Oradell Avenue in Brooklyn, where some of the original settlers had come from.

The Oradell Reservoir is one of several reservoirs that were built to provide New York City with a clean and reliable water supply. The Hackensack Water Company began construction on the Oradell Dam in 1922 and completed it in 1923. The dam is 6,790 feet (2,072 m) long and impounds a maximum capacity of 37.5 billion gallons (142,000,000 m3) of water.

Today, the Oradell Reservoir is owned and operated by the Suez New York City water system. The reservoir is a vital part of the city's water supply system, providing about 10% of the city's total water needs.

Attractions

The Oradell Reservoir is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking. There are also several hiking trails that wind through the woods around the reservoir. The reservoir is open to the public from dawn to dusk. Fishing is permitted with a valid New Jersey fishing license. Boats are allowed on the reservoir, but there is a 5 mph (8 km/h) speed limit. Swimming is not allowed in the reservoir.

Amenities

The Oradell Reservoir offers a variety of amenities for visitors, including a boat launch, picnic areas, and hiking trails. There is also a Visitors Center located at the reservoir, which offers interpretive exhibits about the history and ecology of the area. The Oradell Reservoir is open to the public from dawn to dusk. There is no charge for parking or for using any of the amenities.

Why You Should Visit the Oradell Reservoir

The Oradell Reservoir is a beautiful and peaceful spot that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to fish, boat, hike, or simply take in the scenery, the Oradell Reservoir is definitely worth a visit.

Information provided by The Restoration Group.