Zoo Boise’s new and improved education campus is open, leveling up the experience for staff, zoo guests, and the animals that zookeepers care for. This state-of-the-art space brings more opportunities for guests of all ages to connect with wildlife and support conservation through programs, camps, and classes. The Bews Foundation Conservation and Education Center includes approximately 9,000 feet of indoor and outdoor learning spaces and offices, a dedicated entrance for zoo programming, and new habitats for the zoo’s ambassador animals.
The two-story building allows for more collaboration and provides additional event space for the zoo and growing Treasure Valley. Plus, zoo favorite, southern ground hornbill Toogle, is getting a brand-new habitat. The building also includes new homes for Alexandrine parakeets and Zoo Boise’s ambassador animal collection. Although the education center is not open to the public, Toogle’s home is visible to guests from inside Zoo Boise.
“We are grateful for the partnership between the City of Boise and the Friends of Zoo Boise that continues to take our zoo to the next level,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “When you visit the animals and interact with staff, it is clear the impact these experiences have on our guests, and I couldn’t be happier to see this education campus open and serving our residents and visitors.”
This overarching $11.1 million project – which also included the Virginia R. Bartak Red Panda Passage, a new gift shop, giraffe feeding platform, TLC Foundation Small Cat Hideaway, and Small Animal Kingdom renovations – is made possible thanks to the Friends of Zoo Boise, a nonprofit organization supporting the zoo, and incredible donors. Giving community partners that helped make the new campus possible include Virginia R. Bartak, the Bews Foundation, M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust, and Simplot Company Foundation, among others.
“We are incredibly grateful for our close relationship with the Friends of Zoo Boise and all the community organizations, donors, and zoo supporters who have made this transformational space a reality,” added Boise Parks and Recreation Director Sara Arkle. “We look forward to teaching the next generation about the importance of animal care and conservation in this state-of-the-art environment.”
Registration is open now for Zoo Boise summer camps and programs, which will be held in the new education building. Details can be found HERE.
About Zoo Boise
Zoo Boise is a division of the City of Boise’s Parks and Recreation Department and is supported by the Friends of Zoo Boise, a 501(c)(3) membership organization that supports Zoo Boise in the area of animal acquisition, capital improvement projects, education programs, volunteer opportunities, and special events. The goal of each of these components is to increase public awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the zoo, wild animals, animal habitats, species conservation, and the environment.
Zoo Boise is open daily from 10AM to 5PM with last admission at 4PM.
