Conservation

Our Mission Statement

The Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo’s conservation program advances wildlife and habitat conservation by engaging children, families, and the community in age-appropriate education, local stewardship, and meaningful action. Through partnerships, citizen science, sustainability practices, and support for species and ecosystems, the program fosters a shared responsibility to protect biodiversity in the Bay Area and beyond.

Conservation at the JMZ

The Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo has a long history of conservation efforts. In our science outreach programs, summer camps, and in three interpretive centers in Palo Alto's open space preserves. We have established conservation materials in our lessons to schools, summer camps, three interpretive centers in Palo Alto’s open space preserves, and in our family programs. 

As we continue to grow as an institution, we recognize the important role we play as a zoo in the broader global conservation effort. Whether large or small, zoos often provide one of the public’s closest connections to wildlife, habitats, and the information needed to better understand and protect the natural world.

Conservation efforts matter at every level. They help preserve habitats, protect endangered species, support research and scientific advancement, and inspire education and awareness. Just as importantly, they help foster a sense of responsibility for the living world around us.

We share the Earth with remarkable animals of every kind—animals that inspire wonder, shape the environment around us, and help keep ecosystems healthy and balanced. At the JMZ, we are proud to continue our conservation journey and to invite our community to be part of it. 

City of Palo Alto's Conservation Initiatives

The City of Palo Alto's 2030 Comprehensive Plan is the primary tool for guiding preservation and development in Palo Alto.

The Natural Environment Element addresses the management of open land and natural resources in Palo Alto, as well as responding to environmental risks such as air pollution and climate change. Goals, policies, and programs have been established to support and protect Palo Alto's open space, urban forest and understory, creeks and riparian areas, water resources, air quality, energy, and climate. 

Sign up for our monthly newsletter to receive updates on our ongoing conservation efforts or check back here for future news and opportunities to get involved. 

We encourage the community to fill out the form below for any ideas on how the JMZ can continue to grow our conservation program. 

Click here to view form.