Conservation Committee

The AAZK Conservation Committee connects members to wildlife conservation and environmentally responsible practices by facilitating communication with Conservation Partners worldwide, sharing conservation news and information through AAZK social media and the Conservation Station column of the Animal Keepers’ Forum, providing green guidelines for the annual national conference, and
supporting members’ conservation efforts.

Mission

The AAZK Conservation Committee connects members with conservation initiatives, professional opportunities and educational resources.

Vision 

The AAZK Conservation Committee will inspire a world where wildlife thrives through support of global conservation efforts.

Purpose

The AAZK Conservation Committee connects members to wildlife conservation and environmentally responsible practices by facilitating communication with Conservation Partners worldwide, sharing conservation news and information through AAZK social media and the Conservation Station column of the Animal Keepers’ Forum, providing green guidelines for the annual national conference, and supporting members’ conservation efforts.

“Are you curious about AAZK’s Conservation Partners and what they have been doing? Are you, or your chapter, interested in getting more involved with conservation efforts?

July Conservation Conversation

Topic: Conservation Conversation
Time: Jul 11, 2023 07:00 PM Central Time (US and Canada)

The Conservation Committee maintains a database of volunteer and compensated research/work opportunities within the United States and and internationally. Contact information is provided for keepers and students to coordinate educational and development opportunities with these conservation organizations.

Provide contact information to coordinate educational and development opportunities with conservationists.

Nico Van Strien Leadership in Conservation Award

The Nico van Strien Leadership in Conservation Award recognizes outstanding AAZK member-initiated contributions to the conservation of wildlife and their habitats. It will be presented to an individual AAZK member or a team of AAZK members in good standing who have showed a dedication to the stewardship of the natural world through the creation, continuation, and/or promotion of a conservation project that is not the primary part of their job. AAZK members must often find pockets of their own personal time to nurture personal conservation efforts. These selfless efforts make a positive difference to local ecosystems and inspire communities to action, are a fundamental part of a zoo professional’s philosophy.

Check out the Nico Van Strien Leadership in Conservation Award Page for more information.

Board Oversight – Conservation Team

Sara Bjerklie
Sara.Bjerklie@aazk.org

Conservation Committee Chair

An Nguyen
Memphis Zoo
Conservation@aazk.org

Conservation Committee Vice Chair

Jennifer Merkle
Conservation@aazk.org