The Lake Hopatcong Foundation (LHF), a nonprofit organization established in 2012, is dedicated to protecting the lake environment and enhancing the lake experience. The foundation brings together public and private resources to encourage a culture of sustainability and stewardship on and around New Jersey's largest lake for current and future generations.

Lake Hopatcong Speaks Out reflects the foundation's vision of fostering a vibrant and healthy Lake Hopatcong and its surrounding community. Education is a pillar of the LHF's mission. This book was compiled over several years as the organization educated hundreds of local students about the lake's watershed during its field trip programs in Hopatcong State Park and on Study Hull, our "floating classroom."

During the summer of 2019, the lessons from those trips were made all the more meaningful as Lake Hopatcong faced an unprecedented harmful algal bloom, primarily the result of storm- water runoff into the lake. This book was nearing completion as the community grappled with the environmental crisis, highlighting the urgency to share the story.

We hope you find the lessons compelling. Every reader is invited to spread the word about good stewardship of this watershed and all others.

Please visit www.lakehopatcongfoundation.org to learn more about "lake-friendly living." And please keep doing YOUR part to keep our lake beautiful and healthy