The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center
There is something new in Downtown Kodiak. The Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge is building a visitor center across the street from the ferry terminal.
Facts about the new visitor center from Tina Shaw, Lead for Visitor Services.
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How did the idea for the new visitor center originate?
This has been in discussion for more than five years. Back in 2001, Senator Ted Stevens visited Kodiak and announced that he would work to secure the funding to make it happen. The Refuge makes up roughly 2/3 of the island of Kodiak and, given its remoteness, many of the local people have never been there. The visitor center was conceived as a resource for both the visiting public and local residents--with repeat visitation and year-round events being a focus. We envision welcoming special guest speakers, such as authors, artists and researchers to share their Refuge-based efforts and passion for Kodiak. |
Is this going to replace the current visitor center?
No, the two facilities will be complimentary. The existing Refuge headquarters building on Buskin River Road will continue to house research and support staff and fulfill many administrative purposes - things like special permits, for example.
What was the philosophy behind the design of the building?
Kodiak is a very special place. The people of Kodiak are educated, aware and actively involved with the community. The population cares deeply about things that involve the town and the island. Our goal was to design a building worthy of not only the grandeur of the Refuge, but also worthy of the people of Kodiak. I think we have accomplished our goal. Obviously, we wanted the building to blend in with the surroundings. The visitor center will be one of the the first things people see when they get off the ferry, so it should be a good sounding board for our town, and for the Refuge.
Could you talk a little about the building?
In addition to the 750 square foot multi-purpose room and observation desk upstairs, the new facility will feature educational exhibits, a map room and smaller audio-visual room downstairs for screening films for smaller groups or families.
One of the highlights of the center will be a gray whale skeleton that will be suspended from the ceiling. This magnificent specimen was found a few years ago on the beach locally and preserved with great care. A food source for bears and big part of what defines island life, having this whale within the visitor center is a natural fit.
The building will feature natural ventilation, a radiant floor, local art and exhibits and various artistic motifs in keeping with the main theme - the bears.
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Center Street View |
Mission Street View |
90% complete design
Drawings courtesy of the Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge. |
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Will there be a real bear at the center?
No, taxidermy specimens, following a greater trend in museums and visitor centers, will not be used. There are several reasons for this trend. First, the expense involved in maintaining taxidermy specimens is prohibitive. Second, rarer species (of birds, for example) are difficult to obtain. Finally, as with all species, bears are individuals with specific coloration, expressions, etc.. To better generalize to the whole species, exhibit fabricators have turned to sculptural representations to accentuate distinguishing characteristics. A good parallel example of this concept is the use of botanical illustrations in field guides. |
What: 8,000 Square foot visitor center
Where: Mission and Center streets, Kodiak, Alaska
Groundbreaking: Spring 2006
Opening: Summer 2007
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