Wanaque Lake is a man-made reservoir located in Passaic County, New Jersey. It was created in 1928 by the construction of the Wanaque Dam on the Wanaque River. The lake has a surface area of approximately 2.6 square miles and a maximum depth of 50 feet.
The lake is known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. It is also a popular spot for birdwatching and hiking, with several trails around the lake.
Wanaque Lake is home to a variety of fish species, including largemouth bass, crappie, sunfish, and catfish. The lake also has a population of freshwater clams, which are an important part of the local ecosystem.
Interestingly, Wanaque Lake was once a popular destination for ice harvesting. In the early 20th century, ice was harvested from the lake during the winter months and shipped to cities like New York City for use in refrigeration.
Today, the lake is owned and managed by the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission, which uses it as a reservoir to supply drinking water to several communities in the area.
