Upgrades Educational Facilities with Government of Canada Support

January 27, 2021 – St. Andrews, N.B. 

COVID-19 has created significant challenges for the Huntsman Marine Science Centre (HMSC), which provides hands-on learning experiences in aquatic resources, ocean conservation and commercial activities in the Bay of Fundy region. With help from the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA), the Huntsman has upgraded its educational facilities to allow for safe, low-touch operations, while sustaining revenues and maintaining jobs.

The Government of Canada, through ACOA’s Innovative Communities Fund (ICF), has provided a non-repayable contribution of $53,600 for infrastructure upgrades to support a safe and educational visitor experience. 

“Our government is working hard to support businesses and organizations as we prepare to safely restart our economy,” said Wayne Long, Member of Parliament for Saint John-Rothesay. “I am proud that the Government of Canada, through ACOA is helping the Huntsman Marine Science Centre take the necessary steps to meet new requirements related to COVID-19. These changes will enable the Centre to deliver safe education and tourism activities, as well as expand its year-round program offering.”

Huntsman Marine has provided educational experiences for more than 75,000 students from elementary and high schools, including those from New Brunswick. It engages with high schools and universities across the Maritimes and eastern Ontario, and typically welcomes more than 35,000 tourists during the summer season.

“Core to the Huntsman mission is provision of educational opportunities to students of all ages related to marine biology and ocean conservation,” said Chris Bridger, Executive Director, Huntsman Marine. “This funding will enhance our capacity to again offer these important community-based school programs and welcome tourists in a safe manner during this COVID-19 era."

Numerous facility upgrades are completed, including:

• the installation of physical barriers to provide individual student work stations within three teaching laboratories and the classroom;
• the automation of lights, sink taps, soap dispensers and hand dryers to reduce the risk for transmission within common washrooms; and,
• the installation of transparent barriers used during multi-day education programs that allow safe teaching, social interaction and dining amongst peers. 

All of these enhancements will also support community events and other activities at the Huntsman.