Carlisle SynTec, a Pennsylvania-based manufacturer of commercial roofing systems, recently donated 2,400 square feet of its Sure-Seal EPDM roofing membrane for a new 2-acre grizzly bear exhibit at Zoo Montana in Billings. One of the largest grizzly bear exhibits in the country, Zoo Montana's newest attraction features four outside holding cages, two inside holding cages and a full kitchen that stores food for the bears.
Carlisle's EPDM membrane was installed over a viewing area and the bear enclosures, providing both visitors and bears with adequate protection against the Montana weather. Bradford Roof Management, an authorized Carlisle applicator also located in Billings, installed the roofing membrane.
"Carlisle's EPDM has a proven track record for performance and durability that results in long-term protection and cost effectiveness — two key attributes for public works projects such as this one," said Tom Bradford, vice president and co-owner of Bradford Roofing. "This roofing material also features excellent flexibility, allowing it to handle the constant expansion and contraction caused by Montana's sporadic climate."
The new exhibit is currently home to one bear — Bruno, a 700-pound grizzly purchased from the Knoxville Zoo in Tennessee. According to Jackie Worstell, director of Zoo Montana, the zoo's goal is to add three bears to the exhibit, although no timetable has been set for when the other bears will be purchased.
A 70-acre zoo and botanical garden that hosts over 70,000 visitors annually, Zoo Montana is one of Montana's most popular tourist attractions.
