Zoo Midland is gaining momentum. The project has hired a Project Coordinator and a Zoologist to bring expertise in zoo functionality and planning.
According to Zoo Midland board president Jeff Beard, the idea for the zoo began in 2017 by a group that is working to create more family-friendly activities for the Midland community.
The new attraction will be located on the former Nueva Vista Golf Club property, a 52-acre site chosen for its easy access and park-like setting. The group also purchased the old Green Acres mini-golf course, which reopened in 2021.
According to Beard, finding an expert with high-quality animal care expertise was an important first step. “Animal care is our top priority,” said Beard, “so not having that knowledge of excellent animal care on day one was overwhelming, given the huge responsibility we are accepting.”
The board engaged experts and consultants to develop a business model that will sustain the zoo. The group conducted research and toured zoos across the country to identify best practices in zoo development and management.
Zoologist Jason Green and Project Coordinator Chuck Harrington joined the team soon after, to bring new expertise in zoo planning and operations. WDM Architects was also added to the team to begin designing.
The assembled team says it wants to guarantee the highest quality of care for the animals. “With the major concepts planned out, we’re focusing on filling in the details to ensure proper care for the animals and an enriching experience for visitors,” said Beard.
The group has also partnered with The Preserve, which brings the total acreage for the area up to 220 acres.
“Teaming up with The Preserve aligned with our vision for a family-based experience, making the creation of a family-friendly learning environment more attainable,” said Beard.
Zoo Midland will operate as a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, which means it can accept donations, and donors to the project can claim their contributions as a tax deduction. With a $125 million price tag, the zoo has already secured commitments of $72 million thanks to the generosity of early donors.
Beard told Midland Times his team is grateful for early community support. “The level of excitement from residents has been incredibly positive and keeps us motivated,” Beard said. "We want Midland to take pride in the zoo and feel like they’re a part of it.”
Zoo Midland’s approach will be to give Midlanders experiences that are engaging and educational. The zoo will place emphasis on allowing visitors to interact with the animals. According to Beard, "we believe creating these interactions makes the experience more memorable.”
Exhibits at the zoo will be designed to make the interactions safe for visitors and the animals. According to Beard, the plan will "ensure the animals feel comfortable and at home."
The zoo has set up a website at zoomidland.org. Midlanders can also follow progress at the Zoo Midland Facebook and Instagram accounts.