Is it possible to fit an entire breathing world inside a simple glass jar? Join the Squam Lakes Association for a hands-on program where we’ll explore the "invisible handshake" that allows plants and microbes to thrive in a self-sustaining ecosystem. We’ll walk around the SLA campus to collect the essential "gears" for our engines—from nutrient-rich soil to the "murky" water that jumpstarts the cycle of life. Back inside, you’ll learn the art of layering your biosphere to ensure it can recycle its own air and water for years to come. You’ll head home with your own miniature "Squam in a Jar" and a new perspective on how our massive watershed protects and sustains itself!

To keep you comfortable during our outdoor collection walk, please wear clothing and footwear that you don’t mind getting a little dirty. We will provide all necessary supplies, but feel free to bring your own clean, clear glass jar with a tight-fitting lid if you have a favorite one you'd like to use!

For more information, or to sign up for this Adventure Ecology program, visit the SLA website (squamlakes.org) or contact the SLA directly (603-968-7336). The SLA also offers other Adventure Ecology programs throughout the year. These free programs are open to the public and take place in trails of all lengths and difficulties throughout the four seasons. The focus is to become more comfortable traversing and exploring our beautiful landscape around Squam while socializing with the community.

The Squam Lakes Association is dedicated to conserving for public benefit the natural beauty, peaceful character and resources of the watershed. In collaboration with local and state partners the SLA promotes the protection, careful use and shared enjoyment of the lakes, mountains, forests, open spaces and wildlife of the Squam Lakes Region.