A watershed of wonder is open to experience at Muskoka Discovery Centre in Gravenhurst. Interactive technology, superb design and a passion for Muskoka were combined with scientific expertise to tell five stories that entertain, while educating visitors of all ages about the importance of the watershed to our past, present and future.
Since it opened on the 14th of July, Ann Curley, the Operations Manager and Curator of Muskoka Discovery Centre has heard nothing but praise. “Wow is often the first reaction when someone encounters the virtual aquarium for the first time.” She explained, “The software delivers a realistic view of life under the water surface. An otter swims by. A crayfish crawls across the rocks. Vegetation sways in response to water currents. Schools of fish swim in and out of view”
She continued with a smile, “You want to reach out and touch it. Guess what? You can!” When a visitor touches the otter, fish or vegetation, movement stops, an information box pops up, framing the subject of interest, allowing visitors to learn more about the thing that caught their eye.
Other displays throughout the exhibit deliver interactive games, tell stories about the human history of the watershed, or magnify the smallest of living creatures that inhabit the region. Three dimensional life size sculptures of frogs, birds, snakes and a beaver recreate life at the water’s edge.
John Miller, President of Muskoka Steamships & Discovery Centre, invited residents and visitors alike to, “…experience Watershed Wonders. It will change forever how you interact with your favourite lake, river, or pond. You may become a citizen scientist.”
