November 13, 2009

Engineering Zoo Habitat. Download image.

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Student members of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) chapters of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and Chi Epsilon designed and constructed a new habitat for native animals in the "Alabama Wilds" children's section of the Birmingham Zoo. The new exhibit officially will open to the public Nov. 21.

The UAB team of 10 students and its faculty adviser completed more than 130 man-hours of labor Nov. 6-8 as one of its semi-annual community-outreach projects.

"Our students have produced a visitor-friendly exhibit for children and their families that the zoo will be able to use for years to come," said Jason Kirby, Ph.D., the team faculty adviser and assistant professor of civil engineering.

Engineering Zoo Habitat. Download image.

The student-built enclosure is approximately 300 square feet and resembles a distressed or weathered barn. It includes a wall with cutouts to give visitors a better view of the animals in the enclosure.

The proposal for the new enclosure was developed by zoo staff, and project materials were purchased by the zoo. The UAB student team provided the design plans and construction labor.

"Our students have provided a very valuable community service, volunteering their time and talent to the zoo, while creating something that we think will add to the experience enjoyed by visitors to the children's section," Kirby said.

About UAB

The UAB School of Engineering offers students real-world experience while they train in one of its degree programs, which include the only undergraduate biomedical engineering program in Alabama. Students experience cutting-edge research opportunities, industry co-ops and unique internships generated by the school's commitment to interdisciplinary learning.