[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 74 (Tuesday, June 14, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: June 14, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                 RECOGNITION OF THE LEE RICHARDSON ZOO

                                 ______


                            HON. PAT ROBERTS

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 14, 1994

  Mr. ROBERTS. Mr. Speaker, I wish to call to my colleagues attention 
the Lee Richardson Zoo and its outstanding contributions to world 
wildlife conservation. During the month of June, the Lee Richardson 
Zoo, along with over 160 other institutions nationwide, will be 
celebrating ``Zoo and Aquarium Month,'' a month-long observance that 
strives to raise public awareness of the conservation practices of 
North American zoos and aquariums.
  Since the early 1970's zoos and aquariums have made monumental 
changes to dedicate themselves toward educating the public on the 
importance of habitat conservation. In some cases, these facilities 
have become the last stand for many species near extinction. These 
facilities have modeled themselves as entire ecosystems instead of a 
handful of displays of different animals. In return, the general public 
has become much more aware of the important balance between animals and 
their natural environment. Zoos and aquariums are preserving wildlife 
and their habitat for future generations. I am especially proud of the 
numerous improvement projects currently underway at the Lee Richardson 
Zoo, including Wild Asia, a major new exhibit funded by the nonprofit 
support group, Friends of Lee Richardson Zoo.
  Additionally, construction will soon begin on the Finnup Center for 
Conservation Education, a state-of-the-art facility that will enhance 
environmental education through a partnership involving the zoo, two 
local school districts, and the Garden City Community College. Last 
year the zoo's educational programs reached over 11,000 people from a 
three-State area. These numbers should increase significantly with the 
completion of the new facility.
  I urge my colleagues to join me in recognizing June as ``Zoo and 
Aquarium Month,'' and I urge my colleagues to visit their local zoo or 
aquarium with the family and friends.

                          ____________________