NEW BEDFORD, Mass. — June 27, 2014 — The following was released by the New Bedford Ocean Explorium: Today, the New Bedford Oceanarium Corporation operating as the Ocean Explorium, and the Buttonwood Park Zoological Society announced plans to conduct a study to determine the feasibility of incorporating the programs and exhibit concepts of the Ocean Explorium into the operations at the Buttonwood Park Zoo. The goal of the study is to develop a plan to increase the effectiveness and efficiencies of operations that will build on the strengths of both organizations to provide exciting, innovative, excellent informal education for pre-K through 12 students, their teachers and the general public at the Zoo.
"The Zoological Society is excited to explore the potential to combine the innovative education programs currently conducted at the Ocean Explorium with the zoo's strong focus on conservation education," commented Marion Wainer, the Zoological Society's President. "We are committed to enhancing the Zoo's contribution to informal science education in the greater New Bedford area and the collaborative efforts of the Ocean Explorium and the Zoo could help us further that goal."
"The Ocean Explorium has been recognized nationally for its STEM education programming utilizing the "Science on a Sphere®" and marine exhibits," added Al Dias, the Ocean Explorium Chair. The Science on a Sphere® is generously provided through a partnership with the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth. "We are confident that the study will demonstrate the synergy of integrating our programs and exhibit concepts with the operations of the Zoo and that a joint organization will benefit learners of all ages within our region"
"The Buttonwood Park Zoo is one of only 225 institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in North America and has been recognized as one the finest small zoos in the country," stated Keith Lovett, Director of the Buttonwood Park Zoo. "The Zoo, which predominantly focuses on native species, recognizes the need to have a more global conservation impact. We are excited to work with the Ocean Explorium in developing world class programming and exhibits, bringing additional community awareness to the importance of protecting the ocean and our other natural resources.
The boards anticipate that the study will be complete by fall and plan to use the results to guide any decision-making around the potential combination of programs and exhibits later in the year.
You may contact the below with any questions:
Abbey Spargo: Executive Director, Ocean Explorium 508-994-5400
Keith Lovett: Director, Buttonwood Park Zoo 508-991-6178