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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

[Erie-PA]— The Erie Zoo is delighted to announce that its local conservation efforts have reached a national audience. On Wednesday, May 8^th, Christopher Booker from PBS NewsHour visited the Zoo to learn more about its Last Chance Lagoon. The footage they captured aired last night during the PBS NewsHour program.

Erie Zoo’s Last Chance Lagoon Program
was established in September 2023 to help mitigate ecological damage caused by releasing goldfish and koi into the Great Lakes Watershed. The initiative offers a permanent sanctuary for relinquished goldfish and koi, providing owners with a responsible alternative to releasing them into the wild. Upon surrendering a fish, owners complete an intake form and schedule a drop-off date for a mandatory 30-day quarantine period. During this time, all fish undergo thorough vet checks, necessary treatments, and exit exams to ensure their health before being introduced to the lagoon.

"The Last Chance Lagoon Program aims to prevent or diminish the influx of unwanted pet goldfish and koi into the Great Lakes Watershed," says Heather Gula, Education Director and Conservation Committee Chair. "Through education, awareness, and responsible rehoming, we can protect our watershed and preserve the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems."

Despite being in operation for less than a year, the Last Chance Lagoon program has successfully rehomed 52 goldfish. Community assistance is vital in protecting local watersheds and preserving the natural beauty of Lake Erie for future generations.

The PBS NewsHour segment is available to stream at https://youtu.be/-lhjJODJ77M?si=H1WiUBVJsC1cAN72. For more information about the Last Chance Lagoon program, ways to help, or to schedule an appointment to surrender goldfish or koi, please visit https://www.eriezoo.org/conservationprojects.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Erie Zoo Appoints Roo Kojancie, Chief Executive Officer

Fmr. Zookeeper, COO will lead the zoo’s centennial anniversary, strategic plan, reaccredidation efforts

ERIE, PA (December 5, 2023) - The Erie Zoo announced Melissa “Roo” Kojancie as its new chief executive officer today, after a robust months-long search to replace Scott Mitchell, who continues to serve as the zoo’s director of development. Kojancie has more than twenty years of industry experience, serving as an animal keeper, educator, and the chief operating officer of the Erie Zoo.

Your Erie Zoo will be closing early on Friday, August 11th at 3pm to prepare for the Felines & Wines Fundraiser. 
To get more details or purchase tickets visit the Event Page.