The Société Zoologique de Granby to Showcase Bionics
GRANBY, March 16, 2004 -- The Honourable Hélène Chalifour Scherrer, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Diane St-Jacques, Member of Parliament (Shefford), today announced the collaboration of the Government of Canada with the Société Zoologique de Granby to create and present La bionique: la nature, source d'inspiration pour la science et la technologie, a travelling exhibit that explores nature as a source of inspiration for science and technology."This exhibit will allow young Canadians to use modern interactive technology to delve into one of the most rapidly advancing fields in science: bionics," said Minister Chalifour Scherrer. "Congratulations to those responsible for this initiative for helping the Government of Canada achieve its goals of scientific, cultural, and economic development."
"The Société Zoologique de Granby has an impeccable reputation for consistently using original ways to raise awareness of the wonders of nature, particularly among young people," said Ms. St-Jacques. "The Government of Canada is proud to be associated with this exhibition, which will increase Canadians' interest in science and the preservation of our natural heritage."
This interactive travelling exhibit will make the public aware of the urgent need to protect our natural heritage. Bionics is a dynamic and promising scientific field that borrows models, forms, and structures from nature to develop machines and tools to improve the quality of life of human beings. The exhibit, carried out in collaboration with the Musée de la nature et des sciences de Sherbrooke, features four themes: the history of bionics, sensory organs, movement, and structure and material.
Founded in 1953, the Société Zoologique de Granby is a non-profit organization with 53 full-time employees and more than 350 part-time staff. The Granby Zoo's living collection includes almost 1000 animals, representing 175 indigenous and exotic species. Every year, more than 50 young are born in captivity. The Société Zoologique de Granby also owns a collection of about 1500 artifacts, including skulls, fur, bones, and feathers.
Financial assistance of $90,000 is provided by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Access and National Outreach component of its Museums Assistance Program. This program supports Canadian museums and related institutions for projects that foster excellence in museum activities and that facilitate access to the treasures of our collective heritage.
Funding for this initiative was provided for in the February 2003 federal Budget.
Information:
Mylène Dupéré
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage
(819) 997-7788
Madeleine de Vincentis
Executive Assistant
Office of Diane St-Jacques
(450) 375-1119
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