Oakland Zoo Launches Conservation Strategic Plan

OAKLAND, CA — The Oakland Zoo has unveiled its first-ever Conservation Strategic Plan, outlining a three-year roadmap to enhance its impact on wildlife and habitat conservation both locally and globally. The plan focuses on three key pillars: species and habitat protection, wildlife trade mitigation, and human-wildlife coexistence.

In its first year, the zoo will prioritize human-wildlife coexistence by engaging in habitat connectivity projects, expanding species recovery programs, and advocating for legislative initiatives. The campaign’s official focus will be announced in April 2025, coinciding with two Earth Day events—a festival on April 19 and a volunteer cleanup of Arroyo Viejo Creek on April 22.

"Now is the time for bold, transformative action in conservation," said Nik Dehejia, CEO of Oakland Zoo. "As climate change accelerates and environmental crises escalate, hesitation is no longer an option."

The plan builds on the zoo’s longstanding conservation efforts, including its work rescuing mountain lions in the Bay Area, reintroducing over 900 native frogs into the wild, and partnering with the Blackfeet Nation to restore American bison populations. On a global scale, the zoo supports anti-poaching initiatives for chimpanzees in Uganda and has expanded efforts to combat wildlife trafficking.

With decades of experience in conservation, the Oakland Zoo is focusing its resources on ten key species, including African lions, California condors, and gray wolves. “We have built a strong foundation to launch this strategic plan,” said Amy Gotliffe, VP of Conservation. “Now, we are ready to take focused action on long-term goals.”

The zoo invites the public to participate in conservation efforts through engagement opportunities and educational campaigns over the next three years. More information is available More information is available online.