ISU Phi Kappa Phi to host Pocatello Zoo lecture

Idaho State University honor society Phi Kappa Phi will host a fall lecture titled “Honoring our Wildlife Heritage” on Nov. 15 from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Salmon River Suite of the ISU Pond Student Union Building.

Scott Ransom, director of the Pocatello Zoo, and Sarah Ifft, chair of the zoo’s capital campaign, will give a presentation on the zoo’s history, educational programs, upcoming events and plans for expansion and development.

Ransom and Ifft will discuss recent donations raised by the capital campaign. These donations will go toward major zoo renovations to take place in three phases. The first phase will be comprised of a $2.5 million extension that will include a new grizzly bear exhibit, ADA access to the upper level of the zoo and renovations to the zoo entrance, snack bar, gift shop and restrooms.

Further changes to the zoo will take place over the next 12 years. Funds of $12 million will go toward constructing a grassland habitat, prairie exhibit, wetland area and waterfall. The money will help fund the arrival of many new animals including wolves, wolverines, moose and river otter.

Ransom states that he is planning to bring a surprise “animal ambassador” to the presentation. Kate O’Connor, zoo curator of education, will be on hand to answer questions about the zoo and its animal friends.

The presentation is open to the public and free of charge. Refreshments will be served. For more information, contact Phi Kappa Phi at (208) 282-4608.