Mid City Times

A state grant will allow the Fort Worth Zoo to renovate its Hall of Wonders, enhancing conservation education. The $2 million funding from the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department (TPWD) will support updates to this central feature of the Zoo's Texas Wild! renovation project.

The Hall of Wonders has been a focal point for conservation education at the Zoo since it opened 25 years ago, attracting nearly 25 million visitors. While the core conservation messages remain unchanged, there is a growing need to adapt educational methods to align with digital-age learning behaviors. Zoo officials emphasize the importance of providing factual, science-based education amid increasing environmental concerns.

Ramona Bass, chairman of the Fort Worth Zoo board of directors, highlighted the significance of instilling conservation values in future generations. "What is Texas without the land, the wildlife and the natural resources that have informed and shaped our culture and history?" she said. She stressed the necessity for children to understand and appreciate their environmental heritage.

The TPWD Urban Indoor Local Parks grant awarded to the Fort Worth Zoo reflects ongoing collaboration between TPWD and the Zoo in promoting vital conservation messages.