Lake Hopatcong
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Lake Hopatcong is the largest freshwater body in the state of New Jersey, approximately 4 sq mi (10.4 sq km) in area. It is located in the mountains of northern New Jersey, north of Netcong, along the border between Sussex and Morris counties. The lake is within the borders of four municipalities: Hopatcong, Jefferson Township, Roxbury Township, and Mount Arlington. In the 18th century, the lake was known as the "Great Pond." A natural body of water, the area of the lake has been enlarged by the damming of the Musconetcong River, its natural outlet, on the southern side of the lake.
Before the arrival of Europeans, the lake was actually two separate lakes and was the site of Lenape inhabitation. In 1750, the first dam was built on the Musconetcong where it empties from the lake, raising the level of the lake by approximately 6 ft (2 m) and joining the two lakes into one. In 1831, a feeder channel was constructed from the lake to supply water to the Morris Canal. The dam on the outlet of the lake has been maintained for flood control.
The lake became a popular resort destination starting in the 1880s, centered on the Bertrand Island Amusement Park, which flourished until the 1930s. The amusement park closed completely in 1983. The lake continues to be a popular recreational destination for the region.
Lake Hopatcong is the only lake in New Jersey with bars & restaurants accessible by boat. Popular tourist destinations on the lake include the Hopatcong State Park, The Lake Hopatcong Historical Museum, and The Lake Hopatcong Yacht Club.
On November 22, 2005, the EPA gave the Lake Hopatcong Commission a federal grant of $745,000 to improve the water quality and prevent phosphorus from entering the lake.
References
- "EPA brings $745K to Lake Hopatcong". (December 1, 2005). Roxbury Register, pp. 1-2.
External links
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