For Immediate Release Contact: Field Museum PR Department (312) 665-7100, media@fieldmuseum.org WATER Wednesday, June 17 - Sunday, September 20, 2009 Compelling Exhibition Highlights Earth's Most Precious Resource Less than three percent of all water on Earth is fresh; less than one-third of that is in liquid form Six countries contain half of the world’s fresh water supply Some species never drink: kangaroo rats get all the water they need from food they eat Water – The next time you turn on the faucet to get a drink, just imagine all the species, mammoth or microscopic, that this single resource sustains. Water is life-giving, yet finite. In parts of the world water is taken for granted; in others, it is coveted. The Field Museum’s summer 2009 exhibition, Water, is a timely, in-depth, thought-provoking experience for the whole family, focusing on how we use water and the future of this natural resource. The 7,500-square-foot exhibition illuminates many challenges various cultures encounter with water – whether living on a lake that floods annually, or walking for miles, simply to find a drink. Water explores the many ways water shapes life on Earth, making our planet livable. “This is a fantastic opportunity to learn about the critical role water plays in our lives” says Philip Willink, PhD, assistant collections manager of fishes at The Field Museum. “It is necessary to understand how humans interact with water if we are to appreciate and effectively manage this precious resource. The Museum has the opportunity to open up a public dialogue on the importance of water and aquatic systems throughout the world.” The Field Museum is one stop on the exhibition’s international tour that includes South America, Asia, and Australia. The Chicago presentation features unique elements, focusing visitors’ attention on extensive information about our area’s largest source of fresh water: Lake Michigan. Continue >>