CLINTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. (Hunterdon County) — Hunterdon County officials joined residents and representatives from the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife to celebrate the reopening and rededication of Echo Hill Pond, located at 42 Lilac Drive in Clinton Township, following a series of renovations aimed at improving accessibility, recreation and environmental sustainability.
The ceremony featured a ribbon cutting at the pond’s new dock and a ceremonial fish stocking by the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife.
“Today’s ribbon cutting represents far more than the reopening of a pond,” said Commissioner Director John E. Lanza. “It reflects our belief that preserving our natural resources must go hand-in-hand with investing in them. Hunterdon County has earned a statewide reputation as a leader in farmland and open space preservation, and we remain equally committed to enhancing these treasured public spaces through thoughtful improvements, expanded accessibility, and modern recreational opportunities.”
The project added an Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible fishing and paddling dock, an accessible walking trail surrounding the pond and underwater aeration diffusers designed to improve water quality, support aquatic life and enhance fishing opportunities.
County officials said the new dock will provide greater access for anglers of all abilities while also serving as a launch site for kayaks and canoes and future paddling instruction offered by the Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation.
Since the pond was refilled, county officials said frogs, turtles, dragonflies, birds and other wildlife have returned to the area. During the ceremony, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife stocked the pond with largemouth bass, bluegills and fathead minnows to strengthen the fish population.
Echo Hill Pond is also being used as an outdoor classroom, with children attending the Hunterdon County Nature Camp learning about wildlife, conservation and environmental stewardship.
“Preserving land, however, is only part of that responsibility,” said Commissioner Shaun C. Van Doren. “We must also continue investing in these public spaces so they remain welcoming, accessible, and enjoyable for today’s families while serving generations yet to come.”
County officials said the Echo Hill Pond improvements are part of broader investments in the county park system, including the ongoing $5.7 million modernization of the Hunterdon County Arboretum and the recent completion of a barrier-free playground at Deer Path Park.
The county also recognized the Hunterdon County Division of Parks and Recreation, several county departments, the New Jersey Division of Fish and Wildlife, Kalogridis Contracting LLC and French & Parrello Associates for their roles in completing the project.
Echo Hill Pond is now open to the public and offers accessible fishing, paddling, walking trails, wildlife observation and environmental education opportunities year-round.
