Also, the mining heritage of Wisconsin will be shown in a walk-through exhibit of a mine tunnel. Here, visitors can learn where and when a number of geological events occurred in the Great Lakes region, and a companion exhibit of fossils will highlight the history of life on earth. This includes the Wisconsin portion of the internationally renowned Barlow Collection. Opening for the museum is planned for the fall of 2001, with construction beginning in late 2000 or early 2001. Architectural planning for the size, shape, and general layout of the facility has been largely completed.
Work is underway to assemble the materials for the various exhibits.
The underlying philosophy regarding all exhibits in the Weis Earth Science Museum will be education, which supports the mission statement of the Museum. As such, it will also serve as effective companion to the adjacent Barlow Planetarium. Exhibits to show a wide variety of minerals from other parts of the world. The Flambeau Mine display will also is part of this complex, illustrated by specimens and a video to show the history of a modern mine. One portion includes minerals necessary for items in our homes, another segment the minerals necessary for modern automobiles.