Vancouver’s Science World receives $240K to support rewilding garden project

New funding from TD Bank Group will enable Science World to continue its rewilding project for the facility's surrounding gardens. (Courtesy: Science World)

Vancouver’s Science World will continue its mission to restore the facility’s land back to its natural state with the aid of $240,000 in new funding, with the next phase of the project set to kickstart in just a few weeks.

Come autumn, the centre will begin developing three, distinct new nature zones for its sprawling, 35,000-square-foot Ken Spencer Science Park.

Dubbed Pollinator Pathways, the new sections will be planted with native species to attract and support local bee populations alongside other pollinators, and wildlife.

“With this grant, we are closer to our goal of building a greener future creating improved immersive educational surroundings and empowering visitors to conserve vital natural areas, like wetlands and pollinator habitats,” said Sarah Tulga, climate education specialist and curator of the park, in a release issued Thursday.

“By restoring these spaces, we are not only creating a healthier, more vibrant ecosystem on our site but also inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards and field ecologists.”

The funds have been granted by TD Bank Group as part of their TD Ready Commitment, an annual initiative that offers grants to organizations that focus on supporting diverse communities and creating a greener, more sustainable future.

“We’re so proud to help Science World turn back the clock on Ken Spencer Science Park, bringing it back to its natural state and fostering a healthier ecosystem for the local community,” said Julie Armour, TD Bank Group’s senior vice president.

“Through the TD Ready Commitment, our corporate citizenship platform, we’re supporting organizations focused on growing and stewarding quality green spaces in urban and suburban areas for everyone to enjoy.”

The Ken Spencer Science Park reopened in March this year with a host of shiny new upgrades, including new gardening components like a green-thumbed robot and a worm composting display, a revitalized wetland environment, new interactive exhibits, and a renovated outdoor stage area.