JOHNSON GEO CENTRE REVEALS THE UNDERLYING STORIES

Earth science plays an integral role in the lives of everyone on the planet, whether they recognize it or not. Geological forces have shaped the regions in which we live, and provided the raw materials which support the quality of life we have come to expect. Many of our most basic needs are provided, if not influenced, by the Earth and its processes.

The Johnson GEO CENTRE explores the Earth’s complex geological history as shown by the rocks of Newfoundland and Labrador. Prominently located on Signal Hill in St. John’s, the CENTRE has introduced thousands of provincial and global visitors to the wonders of Earth science since opening in June 2002. More than 85% of the 3,100 square metre (33,600 square foot) facility lies underground, incorporating the surrounding bedrock as natural rock walls.

Leading edge technology and exhibit techniques have been employed throughout the GEO CENTRE. The GEO Theatre uses special effects including a 'volcanic eruption' and cascading waterfalls to tell the 4.5 billion year history of our Earth. The 1,000 square metres (11,400 square feet) of permanent exhibits named Our Planet, Our Province, Our People and Our Future, incorporate outstanding images, specimens, audio-visual displays and interactive computer screens supported by several levels of information, from broad concepts to more in-depth facts. Hundreds of rock and mineral specimens are mounted so as to entice visitors to touch and examine them more closely.

One role of interpretative staff is to translate the often complex language of ‘geologese’ into something understandable and interesting to non-geologists. This strategy has been employed with all interpretive media throughout the CENTRE, both at the exhibit and program level, to address the needs of our public. Recognizing that most visitors are not geoscientists, one exhibit area is dedicated to providing Earth science basics. An increasing number of school groups are participating in curriculum-related class visits. The CENTRE also attracts Earth science professionals and hobbyists eager to learn more and share their interests.

The GEO CENTRE fosters a better understanding of the Earth, the use of its resources in our everyday lives and the search for these resources. What better place to tell the geological story of the Earth than in the province so often called ‘The Rock’?