Hands-on learning and fun: A summer aboard the Floating Classroom

September 09, 2024| Advocacy, Community, Education, Environment

By: Patrick Krudop

As the sun sets on another successful season of public eco-cruises on our Floating Classroom, we reflect on a journey that has not only delighted passengers but also deepened their understanding of lake science. These hands-on experiences exploring Lake Hopatcong’s unique ecology and history aim to foster a stronger connection between our community and the environment.

Each 90-minute eco-cruise, which ran weekly through July and August, transformed curious passengers into citizen scientists. Participants measured key water quality variables, such as pH, water clarity, and temperature, using scientific equipment. They also had the opportunity to observe native lake residents, including phytoplankton (microscopic plants) and zooplankton (microscopic animals), both of which play essential roles in maintaining the lake’s ecological balance. These lessons are combined with information about the rich history and significance of Lake Hopatcong, an experience both educational and enjoyable, as evidenced by the smiles and laughter of our passengers!

This summer, we were fortunate to host a variety of groups, including our friends at the SMILE of Hopatcong, the Public Lakes Alliance of NJ, LEAD Morris, and the Woman’s Club of Denville/Rockaway. We always encourage representatives at all levels of government to gain a deeper understanding of New Jersey’s largest lake aboard the Floating Classroom, and this season, we were honored to welcome Senator Booker aboard. We appreciate everyone who has joined us to learn more about Lake Hopatcong and the challenges impacting our lake and its ecosystem.  

These cruises and programs would not be possible without the help of many individuals, businesses, and organizations. First and foremost, we want to extend a huge “THANK YOU!” to our captains and volunteer crew, who generously dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to ensure each cruise runs smoothly and provides passengers with an engaging, hands-on learning experience.

In addition to our amazing crew, we’d like to express our sincere gratitude to the following supporters: Lake Hopatcong Elks #782, FirstEnergy Foundation, James P. Verhalen Family Foundation, and Princeton Hydro for their support of our educational programs on the Floating Classroom.

We also want to thank the following for their invaluable assistance this year:

• Hopatcong State Park and the NJ State Park Service for their support and for providing dock space 
• Camp Six Property Management (Live the Lake NJ) for their donation of dock space when needed 
• Lee’s County Park Marina for trailer and vessel storage 
• Accurate Pest Control for donating spider treatment 
• CWB Marine Service for vessel maintenance, winterization, and repairs 

Although our public cruise season has come to an end, the Floating Classroom will continue to serve as an educational platform through our new high school field trip program launching this fall. We are excited about this inaugural offering, which will expand our reach and educational impact.

For updates on our educational programs, 2025 public cruise tickets, and more, sign up for our e-newsletter.