EARTH DAY CELEBRATED AT ROYAL SASKATCHEWAN MUSEUM

The Royal Saskatchewan Museum (RSM) is today celebrating Earth Day by planting a tree dedicated to the memory of renowned naturalist Robert Kreba of Regina.

"Earth Day reflects our interest in sustainability and our commitment to inspire an appreciation and understanding of our world," Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Joanne Crofford said. "It causes us to pause for a moment to consider the importance of preserving our environment and the natural beauty of our surroundings."

Kreba was employed for 25 years at the RSM, until his passing on November 9th, 2001. He is remembered as having a special ability to open people's eyes to the beauty of nature. An avid birdwatcher, he co-authored A Bird Finding Guide to the Regina Area in 1985. Today, the Life Science Gallery at RSM reflects many of the sights and sounds of his work.

In recognition of Earth Day, the Museum will host a variety of family-related events and activities. These include an information fair, a showing of "green" videos, launching of an internal recycling program and organized fun Earth-ball games. As well, from April 22nd to 26th, the Museum's interpretive staff will conduct half-hour, guided tours of The Human Factor section of the Life Sciences Gallery. Tours are on the hour from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm and are free of charge.

Earth Day began in 1970 with its aim to raise awareness about humanity's growing ecological footprint, and to stimulate positive actions aimed at local, regional, and global issues. Earth Day is now the largest, most celebrated environmental event in the world, involving 500 million people in over 180 countries. More than six-million Canadians, including nearly every school child, take part in Earth Day.

The RSM is fully funded by the provincial government as part of its commitment to give the people of Saskatchewan an appreciation and understanding of our natural and cultural heritage.

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For More Information, Contact:

Penny Pedersen Royal Saskatchewan Museum Regina Phone: (306)787-2850 Email: ppedersen@cyr.gov.sk.ca