BY PHYL NEWBECK PHOTOS COURTESY OF AUDUBON VERMONT
Audubon Vermont
F
or some, the words “Audubon Society” might conjure up the image of a solitary gray-haired bird-watcher with binoculars, notepad, and bird identification book. At Audubon Vermont, they’re quick to dismiss that inaccurate stereotype. With programs for kids, new Vermonters, and the LGBTQ community, the staff and volunteers of the nonprofit are doing their best to introduce as many people as possible to the birds of Vermont and the natural environment needed to sustain them. Founded in November 2000, Audubon Vermont is the state office of the National Audubon Society. They are based at the Green Mountain Audubon Center in Huntington (founded in 1964), which has 250 acres
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of forests, fields, and wetlands with five miles of walking trails and a sugaring operation. Many of Audubon Vermont’s programs take place on the property while others are centered in more urban areas. EDUCATION IS KEY Executive Director David Mears describes the organization as having three pillars: public policy and advocacy, conservation science, and education and outreach. The education and outreach are the most obvious endeavors and include a multitude of activities and events. One important component is Audubon Vermont’s sugaring operation, which is an opportunity for the organization to highlight