AUGUSTA — The Friends of the Cobbossee Watershed is once again offering the Tadpole Patrol program, an educational, interactive and hands-on experience aboard the Friends’ 22-foot pontoon boat floating classroom, the OTTER II.

Children and families will have five different options offered to learn about watershed protection and water quality.

The first level is Tadpole Patrol for children entering grades second through fourth where they are introduced to lake ecology, observing wildlife, and learning the basics of water quality testing.

TP-II Lake Science Investigators is for children entering grades fourth through sixth where participants become “science investigators” as they observe the lake ecosystem, conduct water quality tests and record data in their own keepsake journal.

The third level offered is TP3-Junior Lake Monitors for youth entering grades six and and up. TP3 participants are educated in proper water quality data measurement techniques, conduct precise measurements themselves, then analyze and compare their results with data recorded by the Cobbossee Watershed District from the past 30 or more years.

The program continues on the water with Family Tadpole Patrol and Spotter’s Amphibious Adventures. Kids and adults of all ages can board the OTTER II for an hour and half long session to observe wildlife, learn and share the human and natural history of the lake and experience water monitoring with professional equipment.

Spotter’s Amphibious Adventures will explore and learn about aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Participants cruise aboard the OTTER II to a private island in the middle of the lake where they will explore, learn about the importance of riparian areas for wildlife, the benefits of preserving wild spaces and the basics of the “Leave No Trace” method of enjoying nature.