BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – The tides are changing for the ECHO Leahy Center for Lake Champlain as part of a new $3 million exhibit renovation.
Echo is doubling the size of its sturgeon tank as part of its “Into the Lake” exhibit. Executive director Ted Lawson, says the center and the sturgeons go way back.
“They’ve been here at ECHO for over 20 years. Started as fingerlings — very small — and they’ve grown as the organization has grown. To be able to continue to tell their story is super important to the organization. They’ve outgrown their habita, they’re ready for a little more area to stretch,” Lawson said. He says the renovated exhibit would also help more fully immerse visitors. “The hope is that guests get up close and personal with these important species that live in the lake and then leave the space energized and inspired to do their part to ensure we have a sustainable future for the ecosystems around us.”
Other changes include a new home for the snapping turtle on the mezzanine floor, a plankton exhibit, and an invasive species display.
Throughout the month of September, Lawson says the whole center is going to be closed from Monday to Friday for the renovations. It will continue to be open on weekends.
“Into the Lake” will be open in May ahead of the tourism season.