Memorial Day weekend is usually thought of as a holiday where people head to the Jersey Shore. But lakes are also a potential getaway destination.

Lake Hopatcong – New Jersey’s largest lake – officially opened for the season on Tuesday. The opening day ceremony was attended by lawmakers and the commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection. Commissioner Shawn LaTourette spoke about the importance of preserving nature.

"By ensuring the quality, the availability of natural assets like Lake Hopatcong, we are making a sustained investment in the communities in and around places just like this,” the commissioner said.

Lake Hopatcong had excess algae growth in 2019 that threatened its existence. Since then, lawmakers have made an effort to save it.