[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 155 (2009), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 24729]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




CONGRATULATING THE CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN ON THE OPENING OF THE DANIEL 
          F. AND ADA L. RICE PLANT CONSERVATION SCIENCE CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARK STEVEN KIRK

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 13, 2009

  Mr. KIRK. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the Chicago Botanic 
Garden for the opening of the Daniel F. and Ada L. Rice Plant 
Conservation Science Center. This new center will serve to provide 
solutions to plant conservation challenges through research and 
education.
  To accomplish their goals, 200 plant scientists along with students 
and collaborators will aid the full time scientists and research 
assistants in the 38,000-square foot building. The space will also 
house a teaching facility and the country's first doctoral plant 
biology program.
  Additionally the Center utilizes green building practices, including 
an innovative rainwater glen to collect and filter storm water runoff 
and a 16,000-square foot green roof. The visitor's gallery will also 
allow the public to witness the scientific work occurring and various 
exhibitions.
  The Chicago Botanic Garden successfully opened the Daniel F. and Ada 
L. Rice Plant Conservation Science Center on September 29, 2009. I 
commend all the students, researchers and scientists who are committing 
their time and energy to this important project and wish them the best 
of luck.

                          ____________________