Enchanted Forest/Water Safari & The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI) Partnership

Pictured  is 15 year old Isabukru, the silverback gorilla that was adopted by the Enchanted Forest/Water Safari in December 2008. For more information on how to sponsor a mountain gorilla or to make a difference through membership, call 800.851.0203 or visit www.gorillafund.org

The "silverback" theme of the new ride the Curse of the Silverback, refers to the dominant male gorillas who lead and protect their living groups, named after the mature male's saddle of light grey hair. Gorillas are found in several countries in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park chose the silverback gorilla theme for a number of reasons.  They’re a perfect fit for the safari theme--the image of the gorilla’s power adds more thrill to the ride, and they’re very fascinating creatures who are endangered and need to be protected.

“We are in a great position to help and that’s why we have partnered with the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International (DFGFI) to raise awareness and funds for the gorillas,” said Katie Noonan, Marketing Director for the park.  “In December of 2008 we adopted our own silverback gorilla, Isabukuru, through the organization and during the summer we’re bringing a DFGFI fundraising initiative to the park called “Coins for Congo™” that will support programs in Africa that improve the survival of these amazing primates who so closely match our own human genetic makeup. We are reaching out and asking people to help,” Noonan adds.

2009 has even been named the Year of the Gorilla by several organizations including UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) that are launching initiatives  to protect these primates. By visiting the park this summer, families can enjoy a day full of fun, experience our new water ride and learn more about the gorillas and what can be done to protect them!

The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International is dedicated to the conservation and protection of gorillas and their habitats in Africa , through research, conservation action, education and partnerships. Founded by Dian Fossey as the Digit Fund and renamed after her death, DFGFI operates the Karisoke Research Center in Rwanda, and maintains a staff of scientists, trackers and anti-poaching patrols in the Volcanoes National Park . DFGFI also operates a conservation action outreach plan, working in conjunction with innovative community-based preserves in the Democratic Republic of Congo, helping to re-establish's Maiko National Park , and participating in other critical conservation and community projects.   DFGFI headquarters are in the U.S.A., with offices in Kigali, Rwanda; Ruhengeri/Musanze, Rwanda; and Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo. www.gorillafund.org.