BRICK – Sprawling over 120 acres between Herbertsville and Sally Ike Roads, the Brick Reservoir offers locals the chance to partake in a variety of recreational activities in close proximity to a major source of drinking water for Ocean County residents.
Designed by O’Brien & Gere Engineers Inc., construction at the site took two years to complete from its initial groundbreaking. The reservoir itself holds approximately one billion gallons of water, and encompasses three-quarters of the total acreage of the site. Eighteen inches of soil protects the lining beneath the water, which runs to 50 feet in depth at its deepest point.
Nearly twenty years ago, a large sand and gravel pit was chosen to be the site for what would become the largest construction project in the history of Brick Township. Groundbreaking took place on Sept. 18, 2002, and today the location is managed by the Brick Township Municipal Utilities Authority, which maintains and oversees the site. The Brick Reservoir supplies drinking water to the public and is deemed a “protected critical infrastructure” under the jurisdiction of the Department of Homeland Security. The entire site is under surveillance and has an established list of rules that ensure visitors can enjoy the passive recreation offered by the site. Reservoir staff routinely patrol the area and assist the public if needed.
Patrons are allowed to walk dogs at the reservoir, and there are several stations posted around the 1.6-mile paved walkway to deposit pet waste. Visitors may jog or enjoy a leisurely walk around the reservoir proper, or fish from either of the two fenced decks provided to the public. The Sunrise and Sunset decks are lined with brick pavers, many personalized, and seating is provided for those who wish to unwind as they look out upon the water. Similarly, pavers also lead up to the two prominent gazebos at the site, where one may enjoy a rest in the shade on the benches that are there, as well.
Park benches are plentiful at the site, and there are numerous plaques to commemorate members of the public. The engraved plaques are available for a modest sponsorship fee on the Brick Reservoir website. Patrons may sponsor stone pavers (of varying sizes), park benches and even lighting fixtures.
The site has two parking lots and toilet facilities, and the path around the reservoir is wheelchair accessible. While the trail around the water is paved and flat, skateboards and bicycles are not allowed.
While neither swimming nor boating is allowed, visitors to the site can try their luck at fishing from either the Sunrise or Sunset deck. While not stocked with fish, the reservoir is constantly replenished with water from the Forge Pond and Metedeconk River, and the variety of fish include pickerel, shad, largemouth bass and white perch. In addition to fish, turtles and plenty of waterfowl can be seen in the area.
There is no entrance fee, and the location is open Wednesday through Sunday with winter hours from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. (after March 1, the closing time extends to 8 p.m.). The location is closed on four major holidays, namely Independence Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
