A world-class centre, known as the Journey to Churchill exhibit, has opened at the Assiniboine Park Conservancy in Manitoba. The exhibit was built to showcase the province’s support and concern for polar bears and their environment.
“Manitoba is already recognized around the world for its leadership in polar bear conservation,” Greg Selinger, premier of Manitoba, said in a news release. “Thanks to the Assiniboine Park Conservancy and our government, the Journey to Churchill exhibit now solidifies this role by combining research, conservation and education in one location while being a one-of-a-kind destination for all to enjoy right here in Manitoba.”
The 10-acre exhibit, which includes the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre (IPBCC), is the flagship component of the Assiniboine Park Zoo’s $200-million redevelopment plan. It also features:
- An Aurora Borealis 360-degree theatre;
- An underwater viewing area;
- A restaurant, gift shop and children’s play area;
- Interpretive signage, interactive displays, and audio-visual components; and
- Zones with other species of animals, including seals, wolves, Arctic foxes, muskox, caribou and snowy owls.
Journey to Churchill was made possible through a $34-million commitment from the Government of Manitoba, made in 2009. The IPBCC is currently home to four polar bears, three of which were rescued.
