$25M Renovation Transforms Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre
Author(s): Scott Douglas Jacobsen
Publication (Outlet/Website): The Good Men Project
Publication Date (yyyy/mm/dd): 2025/05/23
Representatives of the Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh talk about its $25 million renovation. The upgrades include new HVAC and fire suppression systems, a pumphouse, modernized exhibits, and the transformation of office space into a multipurpose conference centre. New interactive exhibits aim to foster wetland conservation awareness through engaging, age-inclusive experiences. The theatre now supports educational programming, and the restored diorama simulates natural wetland cycles. With 50% improved energy efficiency and full accessibility, the project was funded by the Government of Canada, the Manitoba government, and private donors to support environmental education and sustainability.
Scott Douglas Jacobsen: For the renovation of the Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre, how will the $25 million be spent?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: The renovation of the building included new windows, HVAC system and fire suppression system. The fire suppression required an new pumphouse building to store the water. As well, brand new exhibits were built and renovations were made to the full 55,000 sq foot building (including theatre and cafe). The top floor offices were removed and the space transformed into a multipurpose space for conferences and events.
Jacobsen: How will the new interactive exhibits at the centre enhance environmental education for visitors?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: Our goal is to connect people with wetlands by providing engaging experiences for all ages. We have created a visitor journey so that at the end of the visit there is a call to action. Whether it be to learn more about the importance of wetlands or donate to a wetland conservation organization like Ducks Unlimited Canada
Jacobsen: How has the upgraded theatre improved the wetland conservation?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: The theatre is for educational films as well as conferences and other gatherings. Through this medium, education leads to conservation.
Jacobsen: How does the restored diorama simulate natural wetland conditions?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: Using a combination of lights and sounds, the diorama depicts a full day at the marsh from dust to dawn.
Jacobsen: What amenities does the new event and conference centre offer?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: This second floor space offers views of the marsh, a full service kitchen for onsite catering, spectacular wetland scenery from the deck, full audio visual system, and a bar/flexible food space for lounging.
Jacobsen: Are there specific provisions for events and educators?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: We specialize in providing curriculum-linked programming for students of all ages. There are lesson plans and pre/post activities for educations as well. Special provisions for events include fully accessible facilities. Our new conference centre has a special HVAC system to accommodate smudging.
Jacobsen: How significant is the expected 50% energy efficiency improvements in reaching the centre’s sustainability goals?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: Considering the building was ahead of its time when it first opened in 1993 (green roof, underground cooling system, sewage lagoon system) achieving 50% really exceeded our expectations.
Jacobsen: What role did the Government of Canada and private donors play in supporting the renovation?
Harry J. Enns Wetland Discovery Centre at Oak Hammock Marsh: The Government of Canada made a significant contribution through the Green and Inclusive Community Buildings (GICB) Program as well as Cultural Spaces. The Manitoba government also provided generous funds towards this project as well as several private donors.
Jacobsen: Thank you for the opportunity and your time.
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