In 2017, the City of Bisbee, Freeport McMoRan (FMI), M. Greene Planning & Resource Development, Rural Activation and Innovation Network (RAIN), and University of Arizona South’s Education Department came together to discuss mutual interests and how each might achieve their individual goals and objectives through a collaborative economic and education development endeavor.  To that end, these five organizations determined that a feasibility study was required to examine the formation of a multi-faceted, non-profit, science exploration and research center that could (1) promote tourism, (2) provide experiential science learning activities for students; (3) facilitate the professional development of teachers; and (4) support ongoing STEAM research; thereby substantially improving the overall economic and education outlook and conditions for Bisbee.

 

With USDA funding and financial support from FMI, Arizona Public Service (APS), RAIN, as well as volunteer support from the University of Arizona South, the City of Bisbee, and M. Greene Planning & Resource Development the feasibility study was completed in August 2018.  The study suggested the project was feasible and in October 2018, a second USDA grant supported the opening of  The Bisbee Science Lab. A store-front, pop-up science center on Main Street in Bisbee, allowing stakeholders to conduct extensive data collection efforts. Interviews and surveys revealed that the community and visitors to the Bisbee Science Lab wanted expanded science opportunities for children and adults, especially hands-on science activities for children; a commitment to local environmental issues, and expanding the community's knowledge of scientific discoveries. As one visitor remarked, “Just because I live in a small town, doesn’t mean I have to have a small mind.”

 

The Bisbee Science Lab, located at 519 W Melody Lane in Sane Jose is operated as part of the Design Phase for a permanent Science Center.  The Lab hosts Science Café, a lecture series, provides exhibits in support of that series, and develops exhibit based experiences for people to be engaged in regional scientific research.  Utilizing Virtual and Augmented Reality technology, visitors can learn about a variety of scientific and technology based programs that reach beyond our region and even beyond our planet.  Data collected from visitors will inform the development of a permanent science center and the types of exhibits that are most interesting and useful in providing an informal learning experience for the visitor.