Something that deals with a species of animal could soon have a major economic, research and cultural impact on Louisiana.

Did you know that chimpanzees are on the verge of extinction? This particular chimpanzee is a two year old named Noah.

Experts say he and other chimps are on the verge of extinction. They claim that something must be done in the next five to ten years to avoid a genetic collapse of the species.

That's what prompted a get together in Lafayette last night.

State and local officials are hoping to create the National Chimpanzee Observatory and Great Ape Zoological Gardens in the area.

Right now, Lafayette legislative leaders are trying to make this project happen. Already an internationally renowned group of behavioral and cognitive scientists have endorsed the effort.

Should it become reality the observatory and gardens will be a national tourist attraction. It will house up to 250 great apes and be home to world class research.