The Denver Zoo is a popular attraction in Colorado, drawing millions of visitors each year. But who exactly owns this iconic zoo? In this blog post, we’ll dive deep into the ownership and management of the Denver Zoo, providing you with all the essential details you need to know.
The Denver Zoological Foundation: The Owner of Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is operated by the Denver Zoological Foundation, a nonprofit organization. This foundation is responsible for the overall management, operations, and development of the zoo. The foundation was established in 1896 and has been the driving force behind the zoo’s growth and success over the decades.
Funding Sources for the Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is funded through a variety of sources, including:
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Scientific and Cultural Facilities District (SCFD): The SCFD is a special tax district that provides funding for cultural and scientific organizations in the Denver metropolitan area. The Denver Zoo receives a portion of this funding, which helps support its operations and initiatives.
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Ticket Sales: The zoo generates a significant portion of its revenue from ticket sales. Visitors to the Denver Zoo pay an admission fee, which contributes to the overall funding of the institution.
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Private Donations: The Denver Zoological Foundation also relies on private donations from individuals, corporations, and other organizations to support the zoo’s programs, conservation efforts, and capital projects.
The Denver Zoo’s Board of Trustees
The Denver Zoological Foundation is governed by a Board of Trustees, which is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the zoo and overseeing its operations. The board is composed of community leaders, business executives, and philanthropists who are passionate about the zoo’s mission and vision.
The current Board of Trustees includes:
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Tara Trujillo | Chair |
| John Elway | Vice Chair |
| Deborah Jordy | Secretary |
| Cathy Gillis | Treasurer |
| Dr. Apryl Steele | Trustee |
| Jill Tietjen | Trustee |
| And several other prominent community members |
The Denver Zoo’s History and Evolution
The Denver Zoo has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. The zoo was originally established in 1896 with a small collection of animals, including a black bear, a coyote, and a few birds. Over the years, the zoo has undergone significant expansion and transformation, growing into the world-class institution it is today.
Some key milestones in the Denver Zoo’s history include:
- 1918: The zoo’s first elephant, named Tip, arrived at the zoo.
- 1950s: The zoo began to shift its focus towards more modern, naturalistic enclosures, moving away from traditional cages.
- 1970s: The zoo’s first major expansion project, the Bear Mountain exhibit, was completed.
- 1990s: The zoo continued to grow, with the addition of the Primate Panorama and the Toyota Elephant Passage exhibits.
- 2000s: The zoo underwent a major renovation and expansion, including the construction of the award-winning Northern Shores exhibit.
Today, the Denver Zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing more than 600 species, making it one of the largest and most diverse zoos in the United States.
The Denver Zoo’s Conservation Efforts
In addition to its role as a popular tourist attraction, the Denver Zoo is also deeply committed to wildlife conservation. The zoo’s conservation efforts span a wide range of initiatives, both locally and globally.
Some of the Denver Zoo’s key conservation initiatives include:
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Endangered Species Breeding Programs: The zoo participates in various endangered species breeding programs, working to maintain healthy populations of threatened and endangered animals.
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Field Conservation Projects: The Denver Zoo supports numerous field conservation projects around the world, focusing on the protection of habitats and the restoration of wildlife populations.
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Environmental Education: The zoo’s education programs aim to inspire visitors to take action and become stewards of the natural world.
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Sustainability Initiatives: The Denver Zoo has implemented various sustainability practices, such as water conservation, energy efficiency, and waste reduction, to minimize its environmental impact.
Visiting the Denver Zoo
The Denver Zoo is open year-round, with the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Visitors can explore the zoo’s diverse exhibits, attend educational programs, and participate in various special events and activities.
To plan your visit, you can check the Denver Zoo’s website for information on hours, admission prices, and upcoming events. The zoo also offers a variety of membership options, which provide discounted admission and other benefits.
Conclusion
The Denver Zoo is a beloved institution that is owned and operated by the Denver Zoological Foundation, a nonprofit organization. Through a combination of public funding, ticket sales, and private donations, the Denver Zoo continues to thrive and fulfill its mission of inspiring visitors to care about the natural world and take action to protect it.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to the Denver area, the Denver Zoo is a must-visit destination that offers a unique and engaging experience for all ages.