Conservation
Dickerson Park Zoo’s Conservation Programs & Partners
Dickerson Park Zoo connects people with animals to create adventures that encourage discovery and inspire conservation action.
Conservation and protection of animals worldwide is the primary focus of accredited zoos and aquariums. Since 1986, Dickerson Park Zoo has been accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is part of AZA SAFE: Saving Animals From Extinction and the Species Survival Plan (SSP).
Support of field conservation efforts is a required element of AZA accreditation. Daily visitors to Dickerson Park Zoo, as well as Friends of the Zoo members, are vital partners in DPZ’s worldwide conservation efforts.
Dickerson Park Zoo and Friends of the Zoo are proud to support scientific research and conservation by partnering with the following organizations/research programs:
- El Valle Amphibian Conservation Center
- Mountain Bongo Project
- Tiger Conservation Campaign
- Dong Phayayen-Khao Yai Carnivore Conservation Project
- Grizzly Bear Program
- Niassa Lion Project
- International Crane Foundation
- Conservation Breeding Specialist Group (CBSG)
- Turtle Survival Alliance (TSA)
- Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund
- Andean Bear Program
- Proyecto Tití (Cotton-Top Tamarin)
- Giraffe Conservation Foundation
- Chacoan Peccary Project
Scientific Research
Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri: Dickerson Park Zoo has had a long relationship with Missouri State University. Research on bald eagle reproduction, embryo transfer in antelopes and artificial insemination in elephants are some of the research projects that occurred as far back as the late 70s/early 80s by university professors with assistance from zoo staff. A biology department professor currently serves as research coordinator for the zoo to review occasional research proposals for scientific merit. Most of these come from university graduate students, but they may also come from other sources. The zoo cooperates in such scientific studies as much as possible.
Dickerson Park Zoo also participates in a variety of scientific research projects involving: kangaroos, lionesses, North American river otters, maned wolves, and elephant health & welfare.