Collaboration, Creativity, and Birds at the UVTPC Community of Practice

This April, place-based ecology education providers from across the Upper Valley gathered at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science (VINS) for another inspiring UVTPC Community of Practice. The day was full of collaboration, creativity, and connection—with plenty of time outdoors enjoying the beautiful spring weather and the incredible work happening at VINS.

We were also excited to welcome two new members to the Community of Practice: Madeline Ferland, Sustainability Educator with the Sullivan County Department of Natural Resources, and Brooke Friday, Assistant Curator of Education at the Dartmouth Hood Museum of Art. We’re so glad they joined us and look forward to the perspectives and partnerships they bring to the network.

A huge thank you to Hannah Gelroth, Kelly, the VINS team, and Jennie Friedman from Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller National Historical Park for thoughtfully designing a day that encouraged us to slow down, observe closely, create, and connect with one another.

One of the highlights of the day was an art activity inspired by owl wings and feathers. Participants spent time closely observing the patterns, textures, and colors found in owl feathers before creating beautiful feather-inspired bookmarks using pastels and watercolors. It was a wonderful reminder of how art, science, and careful observation can come together in meaningful learning experiences.

We also spent time exploring the VINS songbird exhibit, where bluebirds, robins, cardinals, and many other birds seemed to be hiding in plain sight as we chatted with each other and soaked in the sunshine and spring sounds.

Another unforgettable experience was getting a behind-the-scenes tour of how VINS avian rehabilitators work with and train their avian ambassadors. We had the chance to observe training sessions with a barn owl and a crow—an incredibly cool opportunity that gave us a deeper appreciation for the care, expertise, and relationship-building involved in this work.

Of course, the day also included important conversations about how we can better support schools, educators, and learners across the Upper Valley through place-based ecology education. Together, participants discussed ways to strengthen partnerships, reduce barriers for schools, expand youth leadership opportunities, and build from the many strengths already present in our communities.

I can’t speak for everyone, but I left the day feeling deeply inspired—not only by the work happening at VINS, but by the many organizations across the Upper Valley that are so committed to place-based ecology education, collaboration, and creating meaningful experiences for learners of all ages.

Thank you to everyone who joined us. We’re already looking forward to the next Community of Practice! If you are interested in joining the CoP, email info@uvtpc.com.