The Valley Zoo was one of those attractions that had been on my list to re-visit for some time – I had trouble even remembering when I last ventured out there. So I was delighted when I found out one of our board meetings was scheduled to take place at the Zoo, with a behind the scenes tour to precede the more formal portion of our monthly gathering.
A sunbathing alpaca (it had just received a haircut)
The Valley Zoo just celebrated its 50th anniversary last year. When it was originally built, it was conceived as the Storyland Valley Zoo, in line with most of the other zoos built in North America during that time period. Remnants of the original design can still be found around the site, but will soon be retired in favour of a more modern facility.
Storyland aspects
Humpty Dumpty won’t be put together again
Dean Treichel, the Operations Supervisor of the Zoo, was a fantastic guide, and was obviously passionate about his job and the facility. He was just bursting with pride, and keen to share his knowledge about the zoo with us.
Wallabies and rabbits – too cute!
Tigers, oh my! (we were led into the building where the animals are fed…I have never been that close to a tiger in my life)
Adorable red panda
The piece de resistance of our visit, and what I was most looking forward to, however, was Lucy. There has been much controversy in the past year over the zoo’s lone elephant, but above all the rhetoric, what shouldn’t be lost is how much her keepers care about her. Maureen, for instance, has been with Lucy for 21 years, and cheekily said, “I will be crazy glued naked to her body” if they ever take her away. I’m sure a sense of humour would be imperative to remaining sane under all the scrutiny.
Lucy on one of the seven walks she takes every day
After the tour, Dean presented the Master Plan for the Zoo, which was passed by City Council in 2005. So far, $43 million dollars have been earmarked for capital development over the next two years. What most impressed me about the plan was how the designs will not only provide more learning opportunities for visitors (a key, said Dean, for small zoos), but how they chose to really embrace animals of our northern climate. Moreover, they have incorporated several sustainability features, including a green roof on the sea lion retreat building and an Arctic marshland that will help filter and reuse water, with an end goal of net zero water usage (except for loss due to evaporation).
Master Plan
Many of the habitats he showed us were still in their conceptual stages, such as “forest homes”, which would be built on tree canopy platforms to allow patrons to watch animals in their natural, tree-bound environment. Or, eye-to-eye viewing of prairie dogs and their underground tunnels.
That said, construction has already begun on one of the most impressive planned upgrades – a new habitat for pinnipeds. Dean was confident that the design would lead to award-recognition for the zoo, and based on the slides, I’d have to agree. The 750L seal and sea lion saltwater pool will be stunning, with details that elevate the design from straightforward to remarkable – including theatrical northern lights on the buildings and an acrylic panel that will mean the animals can swim beneath the feet of visitors.
Arctic Shores model
Another project is The Wander, a central trail system through the zoo mimicking the North Saskatchewan River in design that will be lined with play and demonstration areas, and will help visitors navigate the facility.
Though some funding has been secured, the Valley Zoo Development Society is committed to raising $12 million towards the renovations.
Bravo to the Valley Zoo staff for re-imagining what Edmonton’s zoo can be. Best of luck with the fundraising campaign!
Only Here for the Food 
We took my daughter to the Edmonton Valley Zoo about two years ago. Then when we heard from so many people that Calgary had a much better zoo I wanted to see for myself. So just this past Canada Day we were able to visit the Calgary zoo. In my honest opinion, I think the Calgary zoo is overrated. I didn’t think it was way better than the Edmonton one at all. It may be bigger but I actually enjoyed the Edmonton Valley zoo much more. I can’t wait for the new additions so we can take the kiddies again. Thanks for sharing this Sharon.
I absolutely love the zoo. I wish I worked where you worked and got a behind the scenes tour!
LeQuan – I have to say I have a soft spot for the Calgary Zoo – it seemed like my family ended up there almost every summer, especially when my sisters were young. I love the dinosaur park! Can’t wait for the renovations to be completed for the Valley Zoo though.
Bianca – the tour had nothing to do with my job, actually! I volunteer on one of the City’s boards. It was a fun meeting though!
We’re relocating to Edmonton soon – the zoo will be one of the first places we check out. Thanks for the pics – the kids and I enjoyed browsing them and anticipating our first visit!
Jenn – thanks for the comment! Good luck with the move – hope you enjoy the zoo when you go!