Salisbury, Md. - The Salisbury Zoo's 70^th Anniversary Gala, held Saturday at the Zoo, was an opportunity for the community to celebrate the Zoo's past 70 years and learn about exciting new projects planned for the facility.

During the gala, the ribbon was officially cut on the George J. Mengason Eagle Exhibit, which has been many years in the making. The Zoo's bald eagles, Cheveyo and Sam, cannot fly, but they now have access to a much larger exhibit that will allow more space for flighted birds in the future. Mengason's widow, Jane Ellen Mengason, cut the ribbon.

The largest planned project is a new Andean bear exhibit, expected to break ground this fall. This project, at an estimated $6 million cost, will completely reshape the Salisbury Zoo and provide a much larger habitat for Andean bears. This exhibit will be ideal for Andean bear breeding. Visitors will also be able to see the bears at eye level as they climb in the trees from a second-floor observation area.

A new coati exhibit is expected to break ground in July. The previous exhibit, which had been demolished, needed to be updated and meet the requirements for a breeding colony. The new exhibit will be able to host a troop of four to six coatis. Additionally, improvements have been made to the Zoo's infrastructure, and a pavilion by the Education Center is planned.

"There are so many important projects in the works at the Salisbury Zoo," said Zoo Director Chuck Eicholz. "I enjoyed sharing more about what's to come with guests at the Salisbury Zoo's 70^th Anniversary Gala, and I'm thankful for the support of all who attended and contributed. As we embark on these projects, community support will continue to be vital."

The Zoo's Education Department is also being overhauled with new partnerships, programs, and events. The Guest Services Department will launch a new membership program with additional member events this summer.

During the gala, elected officials at the federal, state, and local levels recognized the Salisbury Zoo for reaching its 70^th anniversary.

The Salisbury Zoo is working toward regaining its accreditation with the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is currently part of the Pathway Toward Membership program. The Zoo plans to reapply for this accreditation in 2026.

The Salisbury University Foundation, Inc., and Sea Gull Century served as the gala's platinum sponsors, and their support, along with that of numerous other sponsors, was integral to its success. To donate to the Salisbury Zoo, visit salisburyzoo.org/donate.