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Mud, Sweat, and Cheers: Swallow Nesting at MCR
A visit to the MCR I/O Tower Parking Lot provides a birdwatch with a chance to see 5 of the 6 swallow species that regularly breed, migrate, or forage in New Jersey. All 5 breed at MCR, including the Cliff Swallow which is a NJ State Species of Concern. ...
ANGLERS of MCR WE NEED YOUR HELP
Starting June of 2026 MCR, in conjunction with NJDFW, is starting a study of MCR’s Salmonidae species in the reservoir. Specifically, MCR is conducting creel surveys for ONLY Atlantic Land-locked Salmon, Lake Trout and Rainbow Trout. Should an angler catch any of...
Unique Plant at MCR – The Fly-Poison Lilly
Between 2021 through 2022 Merrill Creek Reservoir had a Botanical Inventory performed at the property. The results of that inventory found “375 plant species, including 293 native species (78.1%) and 82 non-native species (21.9%). Additionally, the property hosts...
Biodiversity Enhancement of the Confluence of the Merril Creek with the Reservoir
Merrill Creek is often thought of just the reservoir; however, the actual Merrill Creek is the real star of the property. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has classified the Merrill Creek as an “FW2-TPC1” waterway which is a top-tier...
Backscratcher, Backscratcher!
The next time when visiting Merrill Creek Reservoir notice the condition of the utility poles along Fox Farm Road and Richline Road. Many of the poles appear to have been “chopped” at and damaged about three to six feet above ground. On closer examination you will...
Summer Fun at MCR with the Sensory Trail and Tree Finder Game!
As summer approaches and you may find yourself looking for something fun for the kids -check out Merrill Creek Reservoir’s Sensory Trail and Tree Finder Game! What is a sensory trail you say? A sensory trail is a path designed to engage multiple senses, often used to...
Anting Behavior Witnessed at MCR!
A Red-tailed Hawk was observed by MCR staff using ants to help preen its feathers! The hawk was filmed sitting on an ant hill and moving around on the hill to allow the ants to crawl over its body. This unique maintenance behavior called “anting” involves the bird...
Accidents Will Happen – When Birds Don’t Read Their Range Maps
With the return of the migrating Snow Geese to Merrill Creek Reservoir this past week, three other goose species from the far north were found to be tagging along with the flock. Specifically, a Pink-Footed Goose, a Greater White Fronted Goose, and several Cackling...
Merrill Creek Reservoir is now a Lunker Bass Waterbody – Changes to Fishing Regulations for Bass and Lake Trout at MCR
As per the new 2026 NJDEP Fishing Regulations, NJDEP has designated Merrill Creek Reservoir as a Lunker Bass Waterbody. What does that mean? Well for one, MCR HAS BIG BASS! But to help manage the fisheries MCR is now subject to the Lunker Bass regulation set, which...
Don’t Leave Them High and Dry: The Importance of Winter Water for Birds
During these cold months of winter, access to unfrozen water is key to the survival of birds. Birds typically need to drink at least twice daily to maintain metabolism, even in winter. When necessary, as a “last-resort, birds can and do eat snow, but it is not ideal...
Merrill Creek Reservoir
34 Merrill Creek Road
Washington, NJ 07882
(908) 454-1213 (ph)
(908) 454-2747 (f)
Play MCR's Tree Finder Game!
Along the trails at MCR there are 9 different individual trees that have FACES. More Info...
