Spring Field Trips Make a Splash With Over 2,000 Students

June 23, 2025| Community, Education, Environment

By: Patrick Krudop

Spring 2025 brought a fresh wave of enthusiasm, energy, and record-breaking participation to our educational field trip program at Hopatcong State Park. Over 19 action-packed days, we welcomed more than 2,000 students from 29 schools across Morris, Sussex, Warren, Somerset, and Union counties.

With the support of 50 dedicated volunteers and educators, fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students enjoyed an immersive, hands-on introduction to environmental science on and around Lake Hopatcong, New Jersey’s largest lake. Through four rotating stations, students explored lake ecology, water quality, and watershed protection.

Aboard the Floating Classroom, students conducted real-time water quality tests, measuring pH and clarity, and viewed lake plankton up close using digital microscopes. These tools revealed even the tiniest life forms inhabiting the lake.

At the Musconetcong River, students learned how to use macroinvertebrates as bioindicators to assess waterway health and better understand the connection between biodiversity and pollution.

On a discovery hike, students explored the region’s glacial geology and local history while learning why protecting shared water resources is so important.

At the EnviroScape watershed model station, students saw how pollution moves across landscapes and into waterways. The interactive demonstration helped them understand the impact of runoff and the importance of sustainable practices.

This program’s success was made possible by the generosity and dedication of our community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our hosts at Hopatcong State Park, our incredible volunteers and educators, and our generous sponsors: BASF, FirstEnergy Foundation, Lake Hopatcong Elks No. 782, Mimi Washington Starrett Foundation, Princeton Hydro, and the James P. Verhalen Family Foundation.

Student Reactions

This year, we continued our tradition of sending students home with a brief activity sheet, encouraging them to reflect on what they learned. Their responses were thoughtful and creative, and a great reminder of why we do this work. Here are a few that stood out:

“On my field trip, my favorite activity was the Floating Classroom because that was my first time on a boat!” - Lily, Willow Grove Elementary School, Hackettstown

“Next time I visit Lake Hopatcong, I will teach and show my family everything I learned.” - Emily, Shongum Elementary School, Randolph

"This is so cool, I love this trip!" - Anonymous, Academy Street Elementary School, Dover

A stunning recreation of the EnviroScape Jason, Kennedy Elementary School, Roxbury	Wait, is that Patrick?! Daniel, Bernardsville Middle School, Bernardsville
Macros on the Hand Alexandra - North Dover Elementary School	Great Blue Heron Stella - North Dover Elementary School

Teacher Testimonials

“This is an engaging trip. The students enjoyed the hands-on activities. The facilitators were informative and attentive to the students.” - Bernardsville Middle School, Bernardsville

“Wonderful trip!!! Every educator that has gone on this sojourn has returned with nothing but good things to say about it. It is very educational, covers many Core Curriculum Standards and it is well run and organized. Veteran educators all possess horror stories about various class trips over the years. Not on this one, it is well organized, no idle time, no need for chaperones, and it takes all day. The volunteers are also wonderful, caring people. Please reserve a spot for us for the next few decades!!!!” - Academy Street Elementary School, Dover

“The program was hands-on and engaging. My students were unusually motivated and attentive. I really appreciate the hard work the volunteers put into their preparation. It was a wonderful day of learning and fun.” - North Dover Elementary School, Dover

“Our fourth graders had an incredible experience on the Lake Hopatcong Foundation field trip! From exploring and classifying aquatic macroinvertebrates to conducting hands-on experiments aboard the Floating Classroom, every activity was both educational and engaging. The hike through the watershed and the EnviroScape lesson offered such meaningful insight into the importance of protecting our local watershed. What truly made the day exceptional were the volunteers—knowledgeable, passionate, and so great with the kids. It’s clear how much they care, and their enthusiasm made a lasting impact on our students. We were lucky enough to see a beautiful Bald Eagle soaring above the lake. We’re so grateful for this opportunity and can’t wait to return!” - Franklin Borough School, Franklin

“Our fifth grade class trip to Lake Hopatcong was a wonderful experience! The activities are well run and the group leaders and volunteers are very informative and prepared!” - Wilson Elementary School, Westfield

Support for our 2025 Spring Field Trips was provided by