Couple donates $2M to Winnipeg's Assiniboine Park and Zoo
Assiniboine Park Conservancy has now raised more than $133 million toward a $200 million goal
A former Manitoban and his wife have gifted $2 million to the Assiniboine Park and Zoo's redevelopment.
The donation from Doug and Louise Leatherdale was announced Monday in front of the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre (IPBCC), which has been renamed the Leatherdale International Polar Bear Conservation Centre.
"We are absolutely delighted to support the redevelopment of Assiniboine Park and Zoo and to have our name associated with the International Polar Bear Conservation Centre and the important research and conservation work being done there," said a statement from the Leatherdales.
Born in Morden, Doug Leatherdale attended United College and the University of Winnipeg before immigrating to Minnesota, where he and his wife have operated Leatherdale Farms for 35 years. The company breeds Hanoverians, high-end riding horses often used for equestrian events in the Olympic Games.
With the donation, the Assiniboine Park Conservancy's fundraising efforts have now raised more than $133 million towards the overall $200 million redevelopment goal.
Phase I of the redevelopment plan consists of the now complete Heart of the Park component, which includes the Nature Playground, the expansion of the Riley Family Duck Pond, and the building of the Qualico Family Centre.
Phase II consists of significant renovations to the zoo with new exhibits such as the Journey to Churchill, enhanced facilities for visitors, and a more visible and active contribution to environmental and wildlife education, research, and conservation in Manitoba.
The next phase will see the development of a new horticultural attraction to be situated in the south east corner of the park near the Formal Gardens.