Watershed Recreation Areas Open To The Public

United Water's watershed recreation program is open for residents to fish, hike and bird at two locations each in Rockland and Bergen counties. Watershed recreation participants have access to the more than 6,000 acres surrounding the Lake DeForest Reservoir in Clarkstown and Lake Tappan Reservoir in Orangetown and Oradell and Woodcliff Lake reservoirs in New Jersey.

Residents need to obtain a watershed permit in order to visit the United Water sites and the requisite state fishing license is also required. Watershed recreation permits cost $25 for residents ages 18 to 61, $15 for seniors 62 and over and children between the ages of six and17). Permit holders can purchase seasonal guest passes for $25. 

The recreation application is at www.unitedwater.com.uwny under the “outreach and education/community” tab. Fishing license information is also provided. Residents can call the company at 201-767-9300, extension 3208 or 845- 623-1500, extension 3208 to have an application sent to them.

United Water New York Division Vice President and General Manager Michael Pointing noted two of the reservoirs have wheelchair access for fishing.  For Lake Tappan Reservoir, the access is near the Fifth Avenue Bridge and for Woodcliff Lake Reservoir, the entry is at the corner of Coles Crossing and Reservoir Road.  Crushed stone walkways lead from the parking lots to the fishing platforms.

Pointing said the watershed recreation program is beneficial for residents.

"It enables area residents to enjoy the more than 6,000 acres of watershed lands surrounding our reservoirs. It also serves as an important reminder that we all have a role in protecting our water supplies.”