(PUEBLO, Colo.)— The Pueblo Zoo is facing a critical budget shortfall of around $90,000 that could force it to close within the next three years if not addressed.
As one of only three zoos in Colorado accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, the Pueblo Zoo plays a significant role in the community, contributing $20 million in economic impact to the Steel City through employment, tourism, and more.
“No matter what we do, we have to save ourselves. It is such a big amenity for the community,” said Mark Aliff, President of the Pueblo City Council.
The zoo, which dates back to the 1930s, requires constant maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of its infrastructure.
“You have to keep up that maintenance to make sure that things are safe and they’re not going to become an emergency,” said Abbie Krause, Executive Director of the Pueblo Zoo.
Despite being the smallest accredited zoo in Colorado, the Pueblo Zoo supports other exhibits across the state. “It’s important that we retain our accreditation because, not only do we keep the animals healthy as far as the gene pool goes, but it gives us access to the expertise and to those animals,” Krause explained.
The zoo also serves an educational mission, reaching more than 10,000 students annually through contracts with public schools and programs for homeschoolers. “The conservation is our ultimate mission. And how do we achieve that? That’s through education,” Krause noted.
A significant portion of the zoo’s budget, 63%, is allocated to wages for staff who care for the animals, highlighting the importance of local support to address the financial shortfall. To help close the deficit, the zoo is encouraging more visitors to enjoy its attractions, including events like parties and behind-the-scenes tours.
“People can have their parties here or engagement parties. And also, we have behind-the-scenes offerings, which are a lot of fun,” Krause said.
The zoo said its survival depends on increased local support and visitor engagement to overcome its financial challenges. “Everybody loves a zoo, every city needs a zoo,” said Xavier Johnson, a visitor at the Pueblo Zoo.
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