SALISBURY ZOO STAFF ATTENDS THE NATIONAL AZA CONFERENCE

Wicomico County, MD: Late September 2024 was a momentous period for Salisbury Zoological Park as its leadership team participated in the prestigious Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Conference in Calgary, Canada. Among the participants from Salisbury Zoo were the esteemed Director, Chuck Eicholz, and committed Animal Care Technician III, Hannah Buchek.

The conference, however, was not just an opportunity for the Salisbury Zoo team to participate but also to showcase. The extraordinary team was honored to join forces with the renowned design firm Espsten Group. Together, they exhibited the progressive plans for the forthcoming Andean Bear Exhibit-an innovative endeavor by Salisbury Zoo.

This showcase wouldn't have come to fruition without the overwhelming support of the Purdue Foundation, whose funding was indispensable in developing the exhibit's design. This international stage allowed Salisbury Zoo to narrate the thrilling journey of this project while simultaneously outlining the future prospects of its wildlife conservation efforts.

The Salisbury Zoo team's engagement in the conference exceeded the exhibit's presentation alone. They also actively participated in important meetings, such as those concerning the Andean Bear SAFE (Saving Animals From Extinction) program and the Bear Taxon Advisory Group (TAG). These joint efforts underscore the zoo's unwavering dedication to safeguarding Andean bears and propagating worldwide conservation strategies.

In addition to their diligent participation, the Salisbury Zoo staff attended all AZA Pathways Program seminars, thereby emphasizing the zoo's commitment to achieving AZA accreditation in the upcoming years.

Their participation signifies the zoo's progressive stance on meeting the highest industry standards concerning animal care, education, and conservation.

Chuck Eicholz reflected upon the whole experience, stating, "The conference equipped us with invaluable insights, many of which will be integrated into our forthcoming Five-Year Strategic Plan. Our involvement is a testament to Salisbury Zoo's relentless pursuit of improvement and leadership in conservation."

Salisbury Zoological Park eagerly awaits the future and anticipates unveiling the new Andean Bear exhibit to the community. Expressing gratitude to everyone who supports their mission, they continue to inspire admiration for wildlife and strive to protect endangered species.