July 27, 2023

In the heart of northern New Jersey lies Merrill Creek Reservoir, a picturesque natural haven that offers opportunities for redemption and adventure.

Located in JCP&L’s service territory, the property is a 250-acre reservoir with a capacity of 15 billion gallons of water, surrounded by a 290-acre woodland preserve that is a sanctuary for wildlife, boasting diverse habitats and animal species.

Owned by a consortium of utility companies, including JCP&L and Met-Ed, Merrill Creek is designed to maintain water flow in the Delaware River – especially during the summer, when the river is typically at its lowest. As co-owners, each of the utilities provide funding for programs and staffing at the reservoir – which also serves as a place of second chances, where individuals from diverse backgrounds find solace and purpose. Our involvement with the reservoir’s programming and conservation efforts reinforces FirstEnergy’s commitment to our core values of Stewardship and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

“Merrill Creek Reservoir weaves together tales of second chances, conservation efforts and community outreach, inviting people from all walks of life to embrace the beauty of nature and their own potential for growth and transformation,” said Jim Fakult, president, New Jersey Operations.

One individual benefitting from Merrill Creek’s programming is Charisma Rivera, salutatorian of the New Jersey Youth Corps of Phillipsburg’s (NJYCP) class of 2023. She represents one of 86 NJYCP graduates this year who have been granted a second chance through the organization’s partnership with Merrill Creek Reservoir to train and hire students.

After being unable to complete her high school education, Rivera enrolled in the NJYCP’s Second Chance GED Program. She expressed her gratitude to the NJYCP staff during her graduation speech on June 30, acknowledging their dedication to guiding “beautiful misfits” toward a brighter future.

Through programming made available at Merrill Creek, JCP&L employees have collaborated with community groups to provide opportunities for these students’ personal growth. The NJYCP students participated in various conservation projects – from conducting rare turtle surveys to planting trees – as part of a Conservation Innovation Grant where they became stewards of over 1,000 acres of public lands. The work they undertook mirrored the efforts necessary for their future lives.

The reservoir also serves as a bridge between the local communities and nature.

For instance, the Arc of Warren County, an organization dedicated to individuals with developmental disabilities, holds an annual fishing event for its clients at Merrill Creek. This year, around 50 participants were paired with skilled fishing partners and provided with everything they needed to enjoy a day by the water.

To further foster community engagement, Merrill Creek reservoir is open year-round and provides fishing, boating, hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities for the public.

“We’re proud of the offerings provided at Merrill Creek because their programs align with our commitment to a diverse, equitable and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, included and respected,” said Jim.

Learn more about Merrill Creek Reservoir and its community offerings online at https://merrillcreek.com*.

The Arc of Warren County, an organization dedicated to individuals with developmental disabilities, held an annual fishing event for its clients last month at Merrill Creek.

*By clicking this website’s link in this article, you are entering a website maintained by an outside party, which is entirely responsible for the site’s content.