Learning on
Lake Memphremagog
The Memphremagog Science & Education Center (MemSEC) works to develop an understanding of the cultural and natural history of Lake Memphremagog. We emphasize observation, inquiry, and connection.
"We preserve what we love; we protect better what we know." « On préserve ce qu'on aime; on protége mieux ce qu'on connait. » — Quote from Baba Dioum, Senegalese Engineer and Forest Scientist
"We preserve what we love; we protect better what we know." « On préserve ce qu'on aime; on protége mieux ce qu'on connait. » — Quote from Baba Dioum, Senegalese Engineer and Forest Scientist
The Gateway Center
MemSEC is developing the Gateway Center, a hybrid learning facility. This innovative space features interactive exhibits, fostering a deeper understanding of the lake’s cultural and ecological significance.
Interactive Exhibits
Engaging displays that bring the science and history of Lake Memphremagog to life.
Environmental Connections
Insights into the interconnectedness of the lake and its surrounding ecosystems.
Collaboration
Platform for addressing critical watershed issues locally and internationally.
Northern Star
Floating Classroom
MemSEC fosters a unique learning environment on Lake Memphremagog. Our flagship program, the Floating Classroom, offers students a unique opportunity for hands-on exploration.
Engage in Experiential Learning
Develop Fieldwork Skills
Contribute to Citizen Science
Watch this video to learn about the impact of MemSEC’s experiential education programs on the Northern Star.
Our Programs
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MemSEC Staff get to know your students, while helping them develop the necessary knowledge for a more successful Floating Classroom experience.
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Developed in partnership with the UVM Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources, this hour program on the Northern Star accommodates 30 students and 5 school staff. This hands-on applied science field trip will support observation, inquiry, data collection, and environmental responsibility.
There are limitted spots available during our short sailing season, so contact us to request information and schedule a free call, today! -
Explore science models, interactive exhibits, and interpretive panels all focused on Lake Memphremagog’s cultural and natural history. Students enjoy activities, stations, and so much more!
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This final chapter of the Floating Classroom experience brings the concepts students gained on Lake Memphremagog back to the local environment. This is a wonderful debrief experience to help synthesize their learning so far. MemSEC Staff facilitate games and field observation techniques at a natural area in your neck of the woods.
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This is a perfect professional development day for your science education team to prepare for and get the most out of our programs. First, learn at the Gateway Center. Then, voyage out onto Lake Memphremagog. Finally, feel empowered to maximize this valuable experience.
Total Visits to MemSEC: 1245
Total Students Served: 775
Grades Serves: K-12
Total Schools Served: 24
Floating Classroom Cruises: 33
Auxiliary Programs: 16
Total Volunteer Hours: 120
2025 Impact
Sponsor a School Group
on Lake Memphremagog
Meet the Team
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Douglas Casson Coutts
MCM Chair of MemSEC
MCM Board of Directors -
John Aldridge
MCM MemSEC
Education Director -
Aysa Gordon
MemSEC Education
Program Coordinator
MemSEC Committee:
Chair: Douglas Casson Coutts
Rick Ufford-Chase
Felicia Updyke
Kyle Chadburn
Andrea Gratton
Tom Amon
Melissa Judd
The Memphremagog Science & Education Center (MemSEC) by Memphremagog Community Maritime with support under award NA23SEC4690014 from the Environmental Literacy Program of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), U.S. Department of Commerce. The statements, findings, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of NOAA or the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Support for educational programs, equipment, and supplies, is provided by the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, which was established in 1955 by the Canadian/U.S. Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries. The commission coordinates fisheries research, controls the invasive sea lamprey, and facilitates cooperative fishery management among the state, provincial, tribal, and federal agencies.
The Memphremagog Science & Education Center (MemSEC) is supported by Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB). VHCB invests in affordable housing solutions and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.
The Memphremagog Science & Education Center (MemSEC) is supported by Vermont Community Foundation - Better Together: Inspiring giving and bringing together people and resources to make a difference in Vermont.
Educational program support provided by the University of Vermont (UVM) Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources and the Lake Champlain Sea Grant.
Additional support for MemSEC provided by the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain.
Thank you to the City of Newport, Vermont Department of Parks and Recreation for support and access to Lake Memphremagog and the Gateway Center.
Radio Promotion of MemSEC Winter Events provided by Green Mountain Broadcasters, LLC.
We acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Abenaki People. We recognize their ongoing connection to this land and their stewardship of it since time immemorial.