Rfalconcam Forum

An exhibit featuring peregrine falcons is the first to be completed at the Myrick Hixon EcoPark.

The educational kiosk, sponsored by Dairyland Power Cooperative, features information about the raptors through interactive computer display in a setting that mimics bluffs and natural vegetation.

Dairyland's power plant nesting sites at Alma and Genoa have seen 70 peregrine falcon chicks fledge since 1997, helping to restore the once-endangered species in the Upper Mississippi River Valley.

"The contribution to the EcoPark provided the opportunity to share an innovative and ultimately very successful stewardship story with the community," said John Thiel, senior environmental biologist at Dairyland.

The exhibit will be dedicated Saturday during Raptor Day in the EcoCenter. A live peregrine falcon and other raptors will be on hand, and Coulee Region wildlife rehabilitators will talk about their work.

"This is just our first exhibit. We want to have a room full of exhibits by the end of summer," said Jim Gallagher, EcoPark executive director. Filling the EcoCenter will complete the first phase.

Rebuilding the former Myrick Park Zoo also will begin this summer, Gallagher said.

A zoo architectural firm has been hired to create a master plan for the outdoor and indoor live animal exhibits, he said.

Twelve major outdoor animal exhibits are planned, with the river otters as the signature exhibit, Gallagher said.

Gallagher estimated $2 million to $3 million will be needed to complete the project. Final numbers will be announced when the master plan is completed, he said.

To donate, go online to www.mhecopark.org.