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Miami-Dade County District 9 Commissioner Kionne L. McGhee has announced the launch of the My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts.
This transformative initiative aims to recruit more than 500 volunteers and raise more than $100,000 to support critical conservation efforts. Commissioner McGhee seeks to engage over 20 local schools and community leaders, offering participants a unique opportunity to contribute to wildlife conservation, earn community service hours, receive job recommendation letters, and gain certification from Zoo Miami and the Office of Commissioner McGhee.
Commissioner McGhee expressed his excitement, stating, “My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts is about empowering our community, especially our youth, to take an active role in protecting the world around us. By participating, these students will not only learn the value of conservation but will gain skills that will serve them throughout their lives.”
Zoo Miami’s commitment to conservation is at the heart of this new program. As home to more than 2,500 animals and 1,000 plant species, the zoo plays a critical role in protecting endangered species and restoring natural habitats. Among its many initiatives, Zoo Miami has taken the lead on saving species like the Florida Bonneted Bat and restoring the unique Pine Rocklands — one of the most critically imperiled habitats in the world.
Zoo Miami’s Conservation and Research Department has conducted extensive acoustic studies to monitor the Florida Bonneted Bat, a species that utilizes large open spaces on county-owned properties. This research helps to further scientific understanding and supports ongoing conservation efforts.
Zoo Miami played a crucial role in the rescue and rehabilitation of an American Flamingo affectionately named “Conchy,” who was saved twice by the zoo’s dedicated staff and partners. Through this experience, the zoo continues to protect Florida’s flamingo populations.
With the establishment of the Butterfly Bunker, Zoo Miami is advancing its efforts in Lepidoptera research and recovery. The facility aids in rearing endangered butterflies, contributing to their potential reintroduction into the wild.
One of the most exciting aspects of the My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts is the involvement of over 20 local schools. Students participating in the program will engage in hands-on conservation work, from restoring habitats to caring for animals, all while gaining valuable experience that can shape their future careers. In recognition of their contributions, students will receive community service hours, job recommendation letters, and certifications from Zoo Miami and Commissioner McGhee’s office.
“This program is not only about wildlife — it’s about people,” McGhee emphasized. “We are investing in our youth, giving them the tools and experiences they need to succeed while fostering a deep sense of responsibility for our environment.”
In addition to the My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts, Zoo Miami continues to expand its conservation efforts. The zoo is deeply involved in saving species like the Gopher Tortoise, Miami Tiger Beetle, and critically endangered Pine Rocklands, which host numerous species found nowhere else in the world. Moreover, the zoo’s Sea Turtle Conservation Program has rescued and released more than 75 sea turtles, showcasing Zoo Miami’s dedication to local wildlife protection.
Zoo Miami’s botanical gardens also play a vital role in its conservation mission, supporting the biodiversity of the region and offering a unique educational experience for visitors and volunteers alike.
Commissioner McGhee’s My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts is the first step in a broader master plan for Zoo Miami, aimed at enhancing conservation efforts, expanding educational opportunities, and creating a deeper connection between the community and the environment.
“With the support of our volunteers, schools, and community partners, we are building a lasting legacy for future generations,” McGhee concluded. “Together, we will continue to protect, preserve, and inspire.”
For more information on the My Zoo Keepers Program and Enhanced Conservation Efforts and to learn how you can get involved, visit www.zoomiami.org.
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