Representatives from the Garden Club of Dublin recently presented Dave Erler with the Elizabeth Abernathy Hull Award.The award is given annually by the Garden Club of America and is "Awarded to an individual who provides outstanding environmental education for youth under 16 years of age in horticulture and the environment, and has inspired their appreciation of beauty and the fragility of the planet."

Dave was chosen because he inspired many children to care for the natural world with his innovative programs. The Garden Club of America was impressed with his hands-on approach in communicating environmental principles that are relevant to young people.

“Dave sent the Garden Club of America an inquiry about environmental education when he was just starting out many years ago -- and he still has that packet they sent,” said Science Center Trustee Betsey Moran, who championed Dave's nomination through her affiliation with the Garden Club of Dublin. “We were impressed that Dave considered the Garden Club of America as a resource for education even 30 years ago.”

About Squam Lakes Natural Science Center
The mission of the Squam Lakes Natural Science Center (SLNSC) is to advance understanding of ecology by exploring New Hampshire’s natural world. Through spectacular live animal exhibits, natural science education programs, and lake cruises, the Science Center has educated and enlightened visitors for forty years about the importance of our natural world. The Squam Lakes Natural Science Center is located on Route 113 in downtown Holderness, exit 24 off I-93, and is open daily from May 1 through November 1. In September 2006, SLNSC gained national accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). This accreditation distinguishes SLNSC as among the very finest educational facilities of its kind throughout the nation and the only AZA-accredited institution in all of northern New England. For further information about the Center, call 603-968-7194 or visit www.nhnature.org.