The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve, also known as the Lembke Family Preserve, is a significant expansion project by the Denver Zoo that aims to provide a safe breeding space for endangered animals from around the world. This 570-acre preserve, located in Weld County, Colorado, is a crucial step in the zoo’s conservation efforts, supporting the Species Survival Plan (SSP) and contributing to the protection of threatened and endangered species.
Overview of the Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve
The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve is a 570-acre tract of land donated by the Lembke family, located in Weld County, Colorado. The primary purpose of this preserve is to expand the zoo’s conservation breeding efforts, providing more space for growing animal families and the potential to add new species to the program. Additionally, the facility will serve as a temporary relocation site for animals during habitat maintenance and renovations at the Denver campus, enhancing animal care and welfare.
Phases of Development
The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve is being developed in two phases:
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Phase One: This initial phase focuses on expanding the zoo’s breeding efforts, providing more space for growing animal families and the potential to add new species to the program. This phase also includes increasing animal shifting and holding capacity for temporary relocations during habitat maintenance and renovations at the Denver campus.
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Phase Two: The second phase plans to transform the facility into a conservation center focused on conservation breeding and wild reintroduction of species that are threatened or endangered in Colorado and beyond.
Key Features of the Preserve
The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve offers several key features that contribute to its mission:
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Conservation Breeding: The preserve will support the zoo’s SSP, ensuring genetic diversity in wildlife bred under human care. This will help maintain healthy and viable populations of endangered species.
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Animal Care: The facility will provide additional space for animal families and temporary relocations, enhancing animal care and welfare. This will allow the zoo to better accommodate the needs of its growing animal population.
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Wildlife Conservation: The preserve will contribute to the conservation of threatened and endangered species in Colorado and beyond through breeding and reintroduction programs. This will help to restore and protect these species in their natural habitats.
Timeline and Status
The development of the Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve is currently underway, with the following timeline:
- Construction: Construction on the preserve is ongoing, with the first phase expected to be operational by the end of 2024.
- Public Access: The Lembke Family Preserve will not be open to the public to protect the endangered species housed there.
Funding and Support
The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve is being funded through a combination of sources:
- Donation: The Lembke family donated the 570-acre tract, and their generosity is part of the zoo’s $75 million “Into the Great Wild Open” fundraising campaign.
- Partnerships: The zoo will collaborate with other organizations, such as the Wild Animal Sanctuary, on planning and maintaining the infrastructure of the preserve.
The Denver Zoo Weld County Preserve is a significant step forward in the zoo’s conservation efforts, providing a safe and secure breeding space for endangered species from around the world. By expanding its conservation breeding programs and contributing to the reintroduction of threatened species, the Denver Zoo is playing a crucial role in protecting the natural world and preserving biodiversity for future generations.
References
- https://coloradocommunitymedia.com/2024/02/13/denver-zoo-preserve-plans-preserve-in-weld-county/
- https://denverzoo.org/habitat/lembke-family-preserve/
- https://eu.coloradoan.com/story/news/2024/02/08/denver-zoo-to-open-the-lembke-family-preserve-in-weld-county/72523995007/
- https://bizwest.com/2024/02/08/denver-zoo-plans-570-acre-preserve-in-weld-county/
- https://www.9news.com/article/life/style/colorado-guide/denver-zoo-weld-county/73-cd583400-9a50-4650-be92-dd6b17c476ed