DRY AND WET

Foxcroft Academy students taking either CPA Physics or Principles of Technology took to the Piscataquis River by the boat launch on South Street in Dover-Foxcroft during the afternoon of May 22 for the annual “Cardboard Floats” boat race.

Observer photos/Keri Foster

The process began in February with research on topics ranging from buoyancy to boat design, waterproofing and paddling techniques. After completing the necessary research under the tutelage of either Julie Willcott, Dottie Brennan, Kelly Lougee or Gary Worthing, students began building their boats. Most were built entirely out of cardboard, tape and caulk while some included small amounts of wood. The final product for all students had to be at least 30 percent submerged with the goal of staying afloat for the entire race. Courtney Buckner, left, and Makayla Baird paddled their craft to the buoy and back, while Zac, to the right with the cap on, and Tyler Stewart had a little more difficulty as their boat sank beneath the surface.