QUECHEE— Every school year, VINS School Programs works with community schools to identify a local environmental problem, then use science and research to solve it. In the spring, VINS hosts the Science Symposium at the VINS Nature Center, where students and teachers from participating schools gather to share the work they have been completing in their communities. This year’s research themes included “Habitat Protectors,” “Environmental Action and Crime” and “Community Problem Solvers.” The day typically includes a keynote speaker, students sharing their work, hands-on activities led by other area organizations, as well as time to enjoy nature and explore the VINS campus.
This year, due to COVID-19, the Science Symposium has taken a different approach to meet the needs of teachers and students as distance learning continues through the end of the year. During the week of May 18-22, we invite the community to join students and teachers as we present “Meet a Scientist or Engineer” on our YouTube page. You can learn about the impact scientists and engineers have in our region.
Wednesday, May 20, 12:30 p.m. – Have you ever wondered what an entomologist does for a living? What about a forest pest education coordinator? Find out the answer to these questions and many more!
Judy Rosovsky, Vermont’s state entomologist and plant regulatory official and Ginger Nickerson,Vermont’s Urban and Community Forestry Program, pest control education coordinator.
Remove featured imageThursday, May 21, 12:30 p.m. – Walter Opuszynski will share his work and why he is passionate about connecting people in our region with safe and fun experiences while they are out in nature.
Opuszynski, Forest Recreation Specialist, VT Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation.
Friday, May 22, 12:30 p.m. – Join Robin Tindall, Engineer and Environmental Stewardship Manager, Hypertherm and the team of engineers as they share what happens on a typical day at Hypertherm.
VINS is headquartered in Quechee, at the VINS Nature Center. When it reopens following the coronavirus closure, VINS invites all to visit and explore the brand-new Forest Canopy Walk, as well as the Forest Exhibit, which captures the sights, sounds and smells of a natural forest. Discover how to identify common trees and investigate the amazing diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles and insects that call the forest home. Also explore the Adventure Playscape, a natural place for kids with elements for creative play, fun for all ages.
When VINS does open, all activities are included with general admission to the Nature Center: $17.50 for adults; $16.50 for seniors 62 and above; $15 for youth ages 4-17; and free for members and for children 3 and under. Some libraries offer in discounted admission. For more information about VINS and the variety of exhibits, programs, and education opportunities offered, visit vinsweb.org.
