The Cretaceous garden has drastically changed from a lush forest to a barren field. Renovations have begun with the goal of revitalizing the garden.
“One of things we’re looking to do is provide more accessibility in the garden,” said Lisa Making, Director of Exhibits and Communications. “We want to also provide more interpretation as to what plant life in Drumheller was like during the Cretaceous.”
The garden is now closed off to the public and the plants and animals have been relocated.
Students from Olds College assisted museum staff in removing plants. The plants will be relocated to Olds College, where they will be cared for until the garden is ready.
Lear Construction is handling the renovations. The plan is to have a raised boardwalk through the garden. Visitors will now walk over the plants rather than through them.
Throughout the renovations, newly appointed gardener Dawn Christian will be working closely with researchers to rebuild the story that the garden represents.
Other projects the Royal Tyrrell Museum are working on include continuing the work done earlier this year at the Hoodoos near East Coulee.
“We’ll be adding additional signage and addressing some health and safety concerns,” said Andrew Neuman, Executive Director.
Construction in the garden will continue until next March. The plants will be returning in April. However, Neuman added it will take time for the plants to reestablish themselves.
“It’s a chance for us to rebuild the space,” said Making. “It’s really exciting.”
