SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Today, Rep. Liz Olson (DFL – Duluth) presented a pair of bills to the House Legacy Committee to invest in two key assets for the Northland. HF 857 would invest $500,000 over the next two years in the Great Lakes Aquarium, while HF 1657 would invest $300,000 over the next two years in the Lake Superior Zoo.
“The Great Lakes Aquarium and Lake Superior Zoo both offer opportunities to connect our communities to not just exhibits featuring animal and fish habitats, but also to learn about our history, culture, and our changing climate,” Rep. Olson said. “As the parent of a small child, I know how important both facilities are for engaging young people in our community as they become curious about the world around them. They are incredible resources, and both proposals deserve funding from the Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.”
The Great Lakes Aquarium is planning a new 2,500-square-foot exhibit experience called “Lava to Lakes,” highlighting the geologic history of the region. It’s designed to offer hands-on exploration and tactile learning of concepts ranging from geology and biology to natural resources and cultural history. The exhibit is set to open in March 2025.
The Lake Superior Zoo is planning a new snapping turtle habitat, featuring an exhibit focused on animal wellbeing, teaching zoo visitors about how to make a difference for turtles in Minnesota, including through improved water quality. The Zoo is also seeking funding for caribou habitat and research – a species native to Minnesota wilderness. The project includes fieldwork and research on the reasons why caribou vanished from Minnesota and the challenges the species would face today. It would also tell the story of caribou through an Indigenous perspective and educate visitors on growing threats to Minnesota wildlife.
The committee laid both bills over for future consideration in a broader package of projects funded through the Legacy Amendment.