Clovis Zoo wins $100,000 Destination Forward grant; zoo staff announce new animals and events

The City of Clovis has received a $100,000 Destination Forward grant from the state Department of Tourism to fund a 20-year master plan for the Clovis Zoo, city staff told the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board.

"The city of Clovis has received a $100,000 to do a master plan for the zoo through the Department of Tourism Destination Forward program," Claire told the board. Staff said they will issue a request for proposals to hire a consultant and will ask the parks board for input during the planning process. The master plan is intended to create a roadmap for the zoo’s development over the next two decades.

Stephanie, the zoo supervisor (first name only in the transcript), provided an update on recent animal arrivals and events. She said staff recently brought two porcupines from Tucson: a mother, Rosita, and her approximately 4-week-old offspring, Quilliam (juvenile). Two donated birds also joined the collection: Popeye, a roughly 40-year-old Amazon parrot with one eye, and Nikki, a 35-year-old African gray.

Stephanie said the zoo will hold a four-night "Christmas in July" event starting Thursday through Sunday from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., with a special program Saturday night. She thanked Cannon Air Force Base for assisting with installation of lights and inflatables for the event and noted the zoo was observing National Zookeeper Week with a mayoral proclamation.

Staff said Snail's exhibit is nearly ready and that staff completed climate-control adjustments and perching work in advance of the animal’s debut. The grant-supported master plan will begin with a request for proposals and board input before staff returns with a consultant recommendation and formal plans.

No formal board vote was required or taken on the grant award; staff reported the grant and sought board input on planning.