Hillcrest Park Zoo reports animal welfare work, events and a $100,000 master plan grant application

The Hillcrest Park Zoo provided program and capital updates to the Parks and Recreation Beautification Committee, including animal-care training, outreach events, signage installations and a state grant application for a master plan.

Stephanie (zoo staff) presented updates: she introduced Kai, a marmoset currently in temporary care, and described completing a three-day large-animal emergency rescue class that certified her as an ag-1 first responder. She said the zoo is purchasing equipment to safely move large animals and improving daily enrichment and training routines to reduce stress and assist veterinary care.

The zoo announced a child-abuse awareness event at Hillcrest Park Zoo this coming Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; admission is free and the event is hosted by RGH Children's Alliance. Stephanie said she will appear at an Earth Day event at the library to bring reptiles and other animals for a 10 a.m. program.

On signage and planning, staff said they received large, color signs ordered under a prior grant; wind considerations required design adjustments and additional mounting work. Mayor Morris and staff reported the city applied for a Destination Forward grant for $100,000 to develop a master plan for the zoo; staff said the master plan would support future funding and American Zoo and Aquarium (AZA) accreditation efforts. The committee scheduled its next meeting at the zoo, which will allow members to view new signage and other improvements.

Stephanie said the zoo has submitted a past destination grant that funded signage and that the signs are being installed on structures that do not require poles while other larger signs need reinforced mounting due to local wind conditions.