April 28, 2025 – The Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) will host Clean Water Day, a special celebration honoring the environmental legacy of founder David Laughlin on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 10 AM to 5 PM at the VINS Nature Center in Quechee, Vermont.
This family-friendly event commemorates the life and contributions of David Laughlin (February 17, 1940 – September 6, 2024) whose pioneering water quality initiatives in the early 1970s transformed the Ottauquechee River and set new standards for environmental protection.
Visitors of all ages will enjoy a full day of engaging activities including hands-on water research activities, water cycle and aquatic wildlife games, stream ecology demonstrations, special activities for young children, guided nature walks, and storytelling on the history of VINS and environmental advocacy in Vermont.
“Clean water is central both to our health and to the origins of VINS,” says Executive Director Alden Smith. “Without David Laughlin leading the efforts to clean our local waterways, VINS would not exist. We also have our founders to thank for the river otters, eagles, and other wildlife who have returned to VINS along the banks of the Ottauquechee River. This day will be a wonderful celebration of David’s legacy and the benefits of clean water.”
General admission tickets provide access to all Clean Water Day activities and the entire VINS Nature Center, including the spectacular Forest Canopy Walk and raptor enclosures. For a full schedule of activities and details, please visit our event page.
Join VINS to celebrate clean water, local wildlife, and the vision of a true environmental pioneer!