Our History

The beginning

The Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation was founded in 2017 by Dr. Nina Schoch, a wildlife veterinarian and rehabilitator, who has studied loons in New York’s Adirondack Park since 1998 in collaboration with  Biodiversity Research Institute (BRI).  This work has evolved into a long-term study, over more than 25 years, to assess the impact of environmental mercury pollution on Adirondack aquatic ecosystems using the Common Loon as an indicator species.

In 2001, BRI partnered with the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), Natural History Museum of the Adirondacks, New York State Dept. of Environmental Conservation, and the Audubon Society of New York State, to establish the Adirondack Cooperative Loon Program. Together, these partners further expanded the loon scientific research and development of educational programs based on that research.

In 2017, the Adirondack Center for Loon Conservation was formed as an independent nonprofit organization to continue the Adirondack loon scientific studies, conservation, and education programs. Headquartered in Saranac Lake, NY, the Adirondack Loon Center now also houses exhibits and a gift shop. Come visit us today!