An analysis of the role of horticulture at zoos: more than a place for animals

Date
2011
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University of Delaware
Abstract
Public horticulture encompasses a range of diverse organizations with a rich variety of visions. Among them, zoos have unique attractions and a strong commitment to all living beings. Today, many zoos aim for a display garden quality while educating visitors about plants as well as animals. This research investigated the depth, emphasis, and impact of horticulture at zoos. Surveys and interviews were conducted to gather both qualitative and quantitative data about the role of horticulture in zoo practices and philosophy. Zoo professionals and visitors were surveyed to determine their perceptions about zoo horticulture. Four U.S. zoos served as case study sites revealing six common themes among zoo professionals, including the motivations to implement and purposes of zoo horticulture. The data identified the current state of horticulture at zoos, benefits of implementing horticulture practices, possible challenges to integrating horticulture into the zoo, and the data indicated strategies to effectively promote horticulture to visitors. Recommendations were developed to help guide, integrate, and promote horticultural practices at zoos, particularly those seeking to improve their emphasis on horticulture. To promote horticulture, more than a well-trained and passionate horticulture department is required. The staff of the zoo must collectively support and advocate the importance of zoo horticulture. Zoos attract large numbers of annual visitors, many of whom may not frequent other public horticulture institutions. Zoos have an opportunity to broaden the reach of horticulture exposure and create new relationships in the process. Although plants will likely continue to take a secondary position to the zoo's main message of animal conservation, many zoos are promoting a strong role for horticulture. Animal habitat can rarely be interpreted completely without reference to plants, which consequently highlights the undeniable and strategic role of horticulture at zoos.
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