Ruan Foundation Wild Iowa is the first component of the ‘Expand the Impact’ Capital Campaign. Wild Iowa will present three key species, including the Nationwide Foundation Bald Eagles, that are highly engaging to guests and iconic in the Iowa landscape. Each space will highlight the animal in its natural habitat and demonstrate their connection to the environment. During this time, Blank Park Zoo will also be making improvements to Hub Harbor. This includes an expanded seal and sea lion building, a saltwater life support system and additional shade.

In addition, the campaign introduces the Marjorie A. Foster Lion Conservation Center and a remodeled tiger facility.

The Marjorie A. Foster Lion Conservation Center triples the space dedicated to lion conservation. It will allow guests to connect with a pride of lions from three different viewing experiences, each designed with an inclusive lens and featuring glass from floor to ceiling. Remodeling the current tiger facility will allow Blank Park Zoo to be a significant contributor to the sustainability of the population, will provide updates to the spaces to improve welfare and will re-imagine the viewing experiences.

The campaign focuses on accessibility and inclusion, conservation, education and guest experience. Other improvements include the new Joseph Stage in the center of the Zoo, which opens this spring and provides space for events and education programming, as well as new pathways throughout most of the Zoo and new signage.