Centre de la Biodiversité du Québec

Mission and background

Since opening its doors in 1997, the Centre de la Biodiversité has pursued its mission to educate both young people and adults making them aware of the existence, as well as the conservation of Québec’s biological species, while at the same time underscoring the importance of the sustainable development of our planet.

As a non-profit organization, the centre is governed by a board of trustees. A dozen people are employed by the centre annually, 3 of whom are permanent employees. The centre has a genuine commitment to and involvement in its community, its primary partners being the town of Bécancour and several local industries.

The story:

• 1991 to 1995 - Idea of a nature interpretation centre near the Mont-Bénilde school by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, the town of Bécancour and the Ministry of Environment and Wildlife.
• 1995 – Construction begins.
• 1997 – Centre inauguration.
• 2000 – The first 3 permanent employees arrive.
  The Mont-Bénilde Christian brothers transfer the orchard to the Centre de la Biodiversité.
• 2000 to 2008 - Seasonal opening of the Centre (May to October).
• 2008 – Building expansion
  The 2008 season commences by the opening only of the paths and orchard.
• 2009 – Opening of the new Centre de la Biodiversité, enlarged and completely transformed, now open all year round with new exhibitions, more animals and comfortable facilities.