Live Animal Trail and Guided Lake Cruises Open Daily. Click Here for Events and Tickets
Gib Merrill showing off snapping turtle.

History

2025
  • Two new Red Foxes were added to the exhibit (to join the 2 years old blind female fox).
  • The Ambassador Animal Annex was completed and all animals moved in.
  • Giant Insects came to the Science Center! This temporary exhibit was in place from July through September along the live animal exhibit trail. Six larger than life insects were brought to life to educate the public about their importance to our natural world.
  • We launched the Webster Animal Habitat Initiative, with funding from the Edwin S. Webster Foundation, the Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation and the Justin Brooks Fisher Foundation.
  • The Science Center hosted the second annual Middle School Sustainability and Action Summit on April 22.
  • The new Turtle habitat was opened in the Water Matters Pavilion
  • The Science Center hosted New Hampshire’s statewide Envirothon competition on Monday, May 19. Over 100 high school students will attend the event to compete for the opportunity to attend the national Envirothon competition. The Envirothon is an international environmental and natural resource problem-solving competition that builds leadership experience for high school students (grades 9-12 or ages 14-19). Incorporating STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) principles, hands-on learning, and outdoor field experiences, Envirothon encourages students to expand their knowledge and explore environmental education and natural resource conservation through the study of Aquatic Ecology, Forestry, Soils and Land Use, Wildlife, and Current Environmental Issues.
  • In July a new Bald Eagle arrived from the Teton Raptor Center in Wyoming and a new Broad-winged Hawk.
  • We officially opened the new Volunteer HQ – a dedicated space and resource center for our incredible volunteers and docents.
  • In August, the Horizon Award was presented to Volunteer Manager Carol Raymond during our Annual Meeting.
  • In September a new White-tailed Deer was added to the collection
  • This year, the Science Center received the following honors: Best Summer Outdoor Attraction – Lakes Region New Hampshire Magazine Best of NH 2025 Readers’ Poll. Silver Medal – Best Family Attraction, The Laconia Daily Sun “Best of the Lakes Region” 2025. Best NH Family Attraction (for the second year in a row!) 2025 Union Leader Readers’ Choice Awards
  • In September, our naturalists conducted special raptor migration programs with 4th grade students at Interlakes Elementary school for the 45th consecutive year.
  • In September we said a sad farewell to our old female Bear. She was 26 years old

2024

  • In May, we hosted the Association of Nature Center Administrator’s (ANCA) Regional Connects gathering for nature center staff from all over NE.
  • We hosted five life-size animatronic Dinosaurs on the trail.
  • 68,513 visitors walked the trial. 8,081 people reached through outreach programs, 8,135 took a boat trip, 9,286 students visited the Science Center for a program.
  • The Science Center hosted the first Middle School Sustainability and Action Summit in April. The summit is a collaborative project funded through the Squam Lakes Connected Learning Ecosystem. The event is organized and hosted by Youth Climate Leaders from around the state of NH (high school students from Hopkinton and Holderness) with support from NH Environmental Educators, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, NH Energy Education Program, Prescott Farm Environmental Education Center, and 350NH Youth Leaders Program.
  • The newly-renovated Trailhead Program and Event Building was opened.
  • Construction continued on the new Animal Ambassador Annex and was substantially finished by December.
  • Construction also started on the new Volunteer HQ in the building formerly known as the Trailhead Gallery.
  • Construction was also completed on the rebuild of the Marsh Boardwalk.
  • The Science Center hosted two summer fundraising events. The Family Picnic in July continued to gain traction as a fun family event with entertainment, food trucks, games, and more. The Annual Meeting and Garden Party at Kirkwood Gardens. The Garden Party provided time to enjoy cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres within the beautiful backdrop of Kirkwood Gardens.
  • In August, the Horizon Award was presented to Justin Van Etten at our Annual Meeting.

2023

  • The Science Center’s 142kW solar photovoltaic array went live. (25kW roof mount array on Blue Heron School went live in November 2021; 117 kW ground mount array in parking areas went live April 2023.) The full system provides nearly 100% of the Science Center’s electricity usage and saves more than 250,000 pounds of CO2 annually.
  • Two four-month-old mountain lion cubs arrived in January from Washington. They were orphaned and because they stay with and rely on their mother for up to eighteen months, they could not be released back into the wild. The cubs made their debut to the public when trails opened May 1.
  • Giant Insects came to the Science Center! This temporary exhibit was in place from July through September along the live animal exhibit trail. Six larger than life insects were brought to life to educate the public about their importance to our natural world.
  • The Science Center welcomed a young male black bear cub late in 2022 and was welcomed by the public when trailed opened May 1. The cub came to New Hampshire from North Carolina as a rehabilitated bear who could not be released due to his habituation to people.
  • The Science Center hosted “It’s A Wild Life Exhibit.” The educational panels along the length of the live animal exhibit trail highlight IF/THEN Ambassadors whose careers intersect with the natural world. Ambassadors are women and gender minorities who range from computer scientists who help protect endangered whales to ecologists who study the effect of ice in experimental forests. The banners visually represent each Ambassador and their STEM field including an interactive question for early learners that connects the work of the Ambassador to real life.
  • A new quiet and nursing space was opened in the Picnic Area. This space is a private location for nursing parents or visitors who have sensory sensitivities and need a place removed from the potentially busy environment of the trail. The space includes comfortable seating but not diaper changing facilities or water (visit bathroom locations for diaper changing facilities) and is for one user family at a time. The access code is available at the Admissions window.
  • The Horizon Award is presented to naturalist Eric D’Aleo. Eric D’Aleo has been a Naturalist at the Science Center since January 1994. Over those 29 years, he has enthusiastically shared his knowledge with countless thousands of students and adults. He is an accomplished photographer and artist. He has designed dozens of interpretive exhibits on the trail, written articles, blogs and podcasts, and written and starred in many hysterical skits on the Halloween Hoot n’ Howl. In 2017 he launched the Hidden Stories project which uses over thirty trail cameras to record the wildlife on our campus. That led to an interactive exhibit, online story maps, and thousands of images and videos. Eric is truly a natural educator who has had a profound impact on the Science Center and multiple generations of visitors and program participants.
  • Grandpa's Garden -- our new Pollinator Garden was dedicated in September 2023. This garden, located between the White-tailed Deer Exhibit and Kirkwood Gardens, features plants that are beneficial to pollinators and custom artwork by artist Jenn Houle.
  • The Science Center hosted two summer fundraising events. The Family Picnic in July is gaining traction as a fun family event with entertainment, food trucks, games, and more. The Annual Meeting was moved to a Thursday evening and combined with a Garden Party at Kirkwood Gardens. The Garden Party provided time to enjoy cocktails and passed hors d’oeuvres within the beautiful backdrop of Kirkwood Gardens.

2022

  • The completely reimagined Celebrate Birds building opened after renovations. The Celebrate Birds Exhibit takes visitors on a journey to learn about types of birds from songbirds, to water birds, to raptors.
  • The Science Center became Certified Sensory Inclusive by Certified Sensory Inclusive by KultureCity. The initiative promotes an accommodating and positive experience for all guests with a sensory issue that visit Squam Lakes Natural Science Center.
  • Giant Insects came to the Science Center! This temporary exhibit was in place from July through September along the live animal exhibit trail. Six larger than life insects were brought to life to educate the public about their importance to our natural world.
  • Birds of the Squam Lakes Region was published by the Science Center and authored by Robert S. Ridgely and Kenneth H. Klapper. The expanded and fully revised edition of Bev Ridgely’s classic 1977work, includes updated accounts of the more than 280 species of birds found in the area and includes more than 200 color photographs. This book provides a comprehensive overview of birdlife in the beautiful Squam Lakes Region.
  • The Family Picnic was held in July and well-received by over 250 attendees. The fun event for all ages features food trucks, ice cream, animal programs, edible insects, live music, games, and more.
  • The Science Center is growing initiatives to promote access to everyone through programs like: Museums for All for SNAP benefit recipients; Family Access Membership for New Hampshire EBT cardholders; and Library Memberships. These initiatives help expand access to the Science Center regardless of income level.
  • The Science Center was voted Best Summer Outdoor Attraction – Lakes Region by New Hampshire Magazine.
  • The Science Center was featured on "New Hampshire Life", a television show that showcases the best of what New Hampshire has to offer. The show aired on NESN and the New Hampshire Life YouTube channel.
  • Science Pub continued in the spring and summer to the delight of attendees. This event is a collaboration between Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Squam Lakes Association, and Squam Lakes Conservation Society.

2021

  • The new Richard and Jean Lovett Raptor Exhibit opened with new enclosures, interactive exhibits, and interpretation about raptors.
  • The live animal exhibit trail opened on May 1 with many pandemic related restrictions still in place. This included capacity limits, timed-entry tickets, outdoor retail operations, and increased cleaning.
  • The Family Access Membership program began offering families receiving food assistance a reduced rate Science Center membership.
  • 260 volunteers donated over 5,711 hours of service.
  • Naturalist Margaret Gillespie was awarded the 2021 New Hampshire Environmental Educator of the Year award by the New Hampshire Environmental Educators.
  • Summer Guided Discoveries resumed with limited capacity and program adaptations. The Blue Heron School summer program continued for the second year.

2020

  • Like many other businesses, in March the Science Center paused public programs and asked all but essential employees to work from home.
  • The public trail season typically begin May 1 but was delayed until June 15 per state guidelines. Safety protocols in place for opening included capacity restrictions, one-way trail, pre-purchased timed entry tickets, mask requirement, physical distancing, some exhibit closure, cleaning exhibits and facilities every two hours, and other behind the scenes changes.
  • Virtual programs began for schools, libraries, and other groups.

2019

  • Dinosaurs invaded Holderness with the Dinosaurs Alive! Exhibit from July through September.
  • Blue Heron School officially opened in its new location for the start of the 2019-2020 school year with capacity for 40 students.
  • Dave Erler retired in November after 40 years as a naturalist. Dave received a commendation from Governor Chris Sununu for his dedication to nature and ecology.
  • The Science Center joined Museums for All and offered trail admission of $3 per person for up to four people with presentation of a SNAP EBT card.
  • A hands-on Lake Turnover exhibit opened at Lake Cruise Headquarters.
  • Holderness Inn became home to Samyn D’Elia Architects.
  • Kirkwood Gardens debuted a new kiosk showing flowers in bloom and wildlife sightings.

2018

  • Blue Heron School expanded its capacity to 30 students for the 2018-2019 school year.
  • Ownership of the Holderness Inn was transferred to Samyn-D’Elia Architects. Samyn D’Elia will renovate the Inn for their office space and a staff apartment. The Science Center will continue to maintain Kirkwood Gardens, adjacent to the Inn.
  • The BBC arrived in September with a crew over 100 to explore the nature and culture this area has to offer. The Science Center provided support and locations for the array of live trail cameras. The Science Center also provided live ambassador animals for the shows, which aired for four nights live in the UK and for three nights live on PBS stateside.

2017

  • A new Lake Cruise Headquarters located on the Squam channel, provided an easy departure point close to the main campus.

2016

  • Squam Lakes Natural Science Center celebrated its 50th anniversary!
  • The Science Center received accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for a third consecutive five-year term.
  • The Science Center published two books: Nearer to Nature: Selected WRitings and Photographs from Squam Lakes Natural Science Center was written by Naturalist Margaret Gillespie. 50 Nature Activities for Kids was written by Senior Naturalist Dave Erler.
  • The Water Matters Pavilion opened to the public with 18 interactive water-related exhibits including live fish, frogs, turtles, and mink.
  • Kirkwood Gardens celebrated its 20th anniversary.
  • The Board of Trustees adopted a new Strategic Plan laying out a vision and goals for 2016 through 2020.

2015

  • The Gordon Interactive Playscape opened. The nature playground teaches the concept of prey and predator.

2014

  • A new Wood Energy Exhibit  opened featuring two GARN boilers that heat six buildings.
  • A new Coyote Exhibit opened.

2011

  • The “New Hampshire Geology” Exhibit opened.

2010

  • Blue Heron School, a nature-based Montessori early learning center, opened.

2009

  • Fifteen teens participated in a pilot First Guides program based on the docent program.
  • The first Loon Cruises were offered in partnership with the Loon Preservation Committee.

2007

  • Weekly Turtle Talks, taught by volunteer docents, were initiated.
  • Two additional pontoon boats were purchased for Lake Cruises.

2006

2004

  • Dave Chase became the sixth Executive Director.
  • A new Volunteer Appreciation Display – “Volunteers Complete the Picture” – was created to recognize volunteers.

2003

  • Two mountain lion cubs arrived from Montana for the new Mountain Lion Exhibit.
  • A new Life Underground Exhibit opened.
  • The Mead Discovery Place was dedicated to the late Bill Mead. It features changing exhibits.

2002

  • Forging Trails: A Strategic Plan for SLNSC 2003-2008 was adopted by the Board of Trustee.
  • Started in 1998, the Horizon Project completed fundraising at just over $5 million. Twenty-three projects were created to: 1) expand endowment; 2) build new live animal exhibits and create enhanced learning opportunities to attract and accommodate more visitors without losing the “walk in the woods” experience; 3) expand and improve visitor services facilities; 4) make the exhibit trail wheelchair accessible and, 5) enhance infrastructure with new management information systems, animal care facilities, and collection maintenance and storage facilities.

2001

  • New Bobcat and Ecotone Mammal Exhibits were completed. A moose sculpture was added near the Lower Pond.

2000

  • The organization changed its name to Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, effective January 1, 2000.
  • The Tamworth Pavilion was winterized. An outdoor public amphitheater and garage were constructed.
  • A new Black Bear Exhibit opened and the White-tailed Deer Exhibit upgraded.

1998

  • A collaboration with New Hampshire Public Television produced an instructional television series called NatureWorks.

1997

  • A new Bird Exhibit and aviary replaced the former Bird and Loon Exhibits.
  • Docents were trained for the first time, with 45 volunteers taking part.

1996

  • The capacity for lake ecology school programs and public cruises doubled with the addition of a second pontoon boat.
  • Board of Trustees establishes the Parsons Award to recognize extraordinary volunteer service.

1995

  • A new mission statement was adopted by the Board of Trustees: to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world.
  • Kirkwood Gardens was landscaped as a free public garden exhibiting plants attractive to wildlife.
  • The Forest Trail was added, a 2/3-mile self-guided hike interpreting forest ecology and management.

1993

  • Naturalists offered the first natural history cruises on Squam Lake.

1992

  • Will Abbott became the fifth Executive Director.

1991

  • The first New Hampshire Day, with admission free to NH residents, was held.

1989

  • Bill Webb became the fourth Executive Director.

1986

  • The Quarter Century Fund, a $1.25 million capital campaign started, and raised $900,000 for capital improvements and more than $500,000 for endowment, upon its completion in 1992.

1984

  • A pontoon boat was purchased and Lake Ecology classes were offered for the first time.

1983

  • Richard “Rick” Ashley became the third Executive Director.
  • The organization's name changed to Science Center of New Hampshire to highlight program expansion to a statewide audience.
  • A new marsh was dug by the stream from the Upper Pond.

1982

  • The Webster Education Building was built, along with a new access road and parking lot. It was previously an office building, which was moved ¼ mile from its Route 3 location to be closer to prime teaching areas.

1981

  • A collaboration with New Hampshire Public Television produced the educational television series, Up Close and Natural for Grades K-3.

1978

  • The Orton Mobile Science Lab was the Science Center’s first outreach van. It was used to take live animal programs to schools across the state.
  • The Arthur Unsworth Memorial Library was created.

1975

  • Robert “Bob” Nichols became the second Executive Director.
  • The Ecotone Trail was added. It borders the upper meadow and forest.
  • A summer intern program was established.

1974

  • A new Animal Room facility was created in the Holderness Inn kitchen to house program animals.
  • The first Black Bear Exhibit opened.

1970

  • A volunteer group was organized, starting with 20 people.

1969

  • Squam Lakes Science Center opened for its first summer with lectures in the Red Barn, two trails on Mt. Fayal, live animal exhibits; small mammal hut, snake island, bird and reptile hut, deer knoll, goose pond, bobcat glen, frog pond hut, and three exhibits showing the early life of New Hampshire settlers: blacksmith shop, sap house, and steam-operated sawmill.

1967

  • The first Executive Director, Gilbert “Gib” Merrill, and a small staff were hired. A Federal Title III grant was used to organize the first educational programs.

1966

  • The original 180 acres was purchased with money raised from the local community, soon followed by the purchase of the Holderness Inn and surrounding facilities, as well as a tract of land atop Mt. Fayal. Squam Lakes Science Center was first incorporated as a 501(c) (3) non-profit organization.
top