KGW Meteorologist Dave Salesky is one of several local celebrities who braved the cold water in the Oregon Zoo’s polar bear exhibit to raise money to help protect the species in the wild.

“The primary threat to polar bears is climate change,” said Tony Vecchio, zoo directtor. “The sea ice is arriving later and later in the season and melting sooner, which is putting greater stress on the bears.”

Vecchio and the zoo organized the plunge event to focus on what's happening to polar bears in the wild, and raise funds at the same time.

“We hope we can spark an emotional connection,” Vecchio said. “When zoo visitors encounter these amazing bears, we hope they connect with them in a way that inspires new insight into helping them. People must care about an issue before they'll be moved to act.”

As the ice over the Arctic Ocean continues to shrink, the wild polar bears that depend on the sea ice for their survival will suffer. The World Conservation Union's Species Survival Commission has recommended that the polar bear be reclassified as a vulnerable species, and has placed it on its Red List. The Red List identifies species facing a high risk of global extinction.

 Slideshow: Polar bears at the zoo

Conservation groups are also urging legislators to classify polar bears as threatened under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, to further protect the bears from the consequences of global climate change and other threats.

For donations of $500, members of the public can join the plunge too.

And what would someone get for the donation, besides goose bumps? Benefits of becoming a Polar Bear Plunger include a behind-the-scenes tour of the polar bear exhibit with the local meteorologists at 10:30 a.m., on Tuesday, January 1, a complimentary lunch, a group color photo, and bragging rights.

For more information on joining the plunge, or donating to help polar bears without getting cold, go to www.oregonzoo.org/Events/pbplunge.htm.

The event is free to view with regular zoo admission.

Year of the Polar Bear:

In 2008, the zoo is participating in the Year of the Polar Bear in conjunction with its conservation partner, Polar Bears International. The yearlong event is designed to tell the story of what is happening to polar bears in the wild, suggesting practical ways to reduce our carbon footprint. Global warming, and the resultant disappearance of Arctic ice, is the biggest threat to polar bears today.

The Oregon Zoo is participating in 2008's Year of the Polar Bear through a number of activities, including:

- Feb. 28: Polar Bear Day

Celebrate polar bears through fun activities and keeper talks all day.

- March 23: Polar Bear Romp

Watch polar bears hunt for hidden eggs and treats above and below the waterline, during the zoo's annual Rabbit Romp.

- April 20: Party for the Planet

Through fun activities and crafts, visitors learn about how to reduce our impact on the environment.

- May 10: Bear Fair

Through games and activities, visitors learn about the plight of bears, including the magnificent polar bear.

- May 10-16: Bear Awareness Week

Find out what it's like to be a polar bear, and what people can do to help them today and for the long term.

- Summer TBD: Bike for Bears

Find out how bicycling helps polar bears, while discovering more ways to make biking a part of everyday life.

- Sept. 27-Oct. 5: World Animal Festival

Learn about the world's cultures, dance to live music, listen to storytelling, make crafts and learn about the planet's amazing animals, including the charismatic bears from the Arctic.

- Nov. 29-Dec. 28: ZooLights

Celebrate the Northern Lights, or wild polar bear nightlights, at the Oregon Zoo's annual light-time festival.

- Dec. 26: Polar Bear Birthday Party

The zoo throws a party fit for bears! The birthday bears receive presents, ice treats and igloo cakes made by the zoo's executive chef.

In conjunction with Polar Bears International, the zoo is also coordinating an Arctic adventure to Canada, Oct. 29 through Nov. 3. Dr. David Shepherdson, polar bear researcher and the zoo's deputy conservation manager, leads a small group to Churchill, Manitoba, the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” Reservations are limited; please contact the zoo for details.