Why build a center now?
In
January 2003, the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks
(KDWP) received a $2 million grant for facility construction
from the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) through
Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21)
funds. There is a need to raise an additional $4 million
for building design and construction, landscaping and trail
building, and exhibit creation; and to establish a $1 million
endowment to help fund future operations and programming.
It is critical that this additional $5 million is obtained
in order to leverage the $2 million TEA-21 funds.Since
9/11, spending time in nature, close to home, has never
been more
popular. According to Travel Industry Association of America
research, growing numbers of the public are flocking to
find outdoor serenity and to destinations that reflect
the authentic,
rural American experience. That trend is expected to continue
and increase. The timing also coincides with a need for
economic revival in central Kansas. We believe nature holds
the answer. |
Kansas
Wetlands Educational Center benefits
For the economy of central Kansas
• Develop a world-class nature tourism market.
• Create a need for additional dining and
hotel accommodations.
• Pave the way for new businesses and jobs
related to nature tourism and outdoor recreation.
For the people of central Kansas
• Gain local pride and a sense of ownership for these internationally significant
wetlands.
• Enjoy year-round nature education for youths and adults alike.
• Build cultural bridges to other communities on the migratory pathway
of shorebirds and waterfowl.
For conservation
• Foster conservation partnerships among hunters, anglers, birders,
and general nature tourists.
• Focus attention and funding on Kansas wetland habitat restoration
and conservation.
• Build a constituency that cares about nature.
• Create a greater sense of value for Kansas about natural resources. |
