'Mining tunnel' links science buildings
As published in the Daily Bulletin, October 17, 2011.
By Joanna Magee, faculty of science
The tunnel between the Earth Sciences and Chemistry building and the Centre for Environmental and Information Technology should be reopening shortly after construction on an interactive mining tunnel.
space in the Earth Sciences Museum layout, there was an opportunity to develop an educational simulation mining tunnel with the theme “Exploration, Extraction, and Remediation: the Life Cycle of a Mine.”
The Museum is enhancing our current programming to encourage, educate and engage youth on the importance of sustainable mining techniques,” said Peter Russell, curator for
the Earth Sciences Museum. “The new addition will bring the feel and mood of mining from the Precambrian Shield to Southwestern Ontario, allowing visitors to feel like they are in a historic mining tunnel.
The tunnel will also include information on the history of Ontario’s mining industry, new mineral specimens, and interactive computer modules.
The tunnel project has been made possible by Waterloo alumni and friends whose donations have supported this initiative. (Photo: John Motz, a Waterloo graduate and volunteer with the Earth Sciences Museum, shows off the project.)
The Museum relies solely on financial contributions and personal donations,” said Rosie Triebner, senior development officer for the science faculty. “The mining tunnel is the Museum’s most ambitious project to date, and it is remarkable how strong our alumni and friends feel about the Museum’s role in getting kids excited about science.
The tunnel will be showcased at an Earth Sciences Alumni Reunion in mid-October and will also be open to the public during Science Open House on October 29.
