Wildlife park friends Schweinfurt shine at the big zoo conference in Chemnitz!

Wildlife park friends Schweinfurt shine at the big zoo conference in Chemnitz!

The conference of the Community of Zoo Supporters (GdZ) recently took place in Chemnitz, in which around 80 delegates from 40 different associations took part. Among them were the wildlife park friends from Schweinfurt, who actively participated in the exchange on important topics relating to zoological facilities. Loud Mainpost The program included a series of specialist lectures and lively discussions dealing with species protection and social acceptance of zoological institutions.

The focus was particularly on the lecture by Dr. Dag Encke, director of the Nuremberg Zoo and president of the Association of Zoological Gardens (VdZ). His input on the ethical responsibility of zoo and wildlife park organizations sparked stimulating debates. The conference underlined the immense importance of voluntary work in species protection, which is considered the key to promoting biodiversity and preserving endangered species.

Honors and awards

A highlight of the conference was the awarding of the “Action of the Year” award for the first time. The Wildpark Johannismühle e.V. association was honored for its outstanding tree planting campaign, in which more than 3,000 native trees were planted. This award, like Mainpost reported, recognized the commitment to sustainability and active volunteer participation.

GdZ board member Florian Dittert praised the initiative as an exemplary example of nature conservation and emphasized the community commitment behind such projects. Such a positive example shows how a small group of enthusiasts can achieve a lot for nature.

A look at species protection

Species protection measures are more important today than ever. The Endowment for Species Protection, which works intensively on the subject area, is committed to improving the status of biological diversity. Their approach, known as the “One Plan Approach,” recognizes the management of both ex situ and in situ populations as equal tasks. This ensures that animals in zoos as well as in their natural habitat are optimally cared for.

The foundation follows strict scientific principles and attaches great importance to monitoring and evaluation. Part of their projects also includes the involvement of the local population, which primarily serves to create perspectives and income opportunities and strengthen civil society.

Graduation with community spirit

The conference ended with a shared dinner in the Pelzmühle and a visit to the zoo and wildlife gate. The wildlife park friends from Schweinfurt were enthusiastic about the organization by the Chemnitz Zoo Friends and the warm hospitality they experienced during their stay. Such events are a valuable opportunity to network and exchange experiences - because everyone active in species conservation works hand in hand for common ground.