Palm Beach Zoo

A popular coastal zoo with an extensive lake system establishes a holistic vision for sustainable water management that protects vulnerable water resources, improves water quality, and enhances its exhibits and visitor experience.

Animal-water interactions are a key component of the visitor experience at the Palm Beach Zoo and Conservation Society. The five-acre, watery landscape features exhibits throughout its seven interconnected lakes, ponds, and water features. To maintain proper water levels and quality, the Zoo relied upon groundwater withdrawal and a complex infrastructure system. Stormwater discharge from this system ultimately flowed into Lake Worth Lagoon, an estuary that provides habitat for sea turtles, wading birds, and hundreds of other species. Seeking to improve water quality, reduce water use, improve stormwater management, and establish itself as a leader in the stewardship of regional water resources, the Zoo turned to Biohabitats.

After reviewing available data, determining regional regulatory implications, and analyzing the lake, Biohabitats facilitated a two-day workshop with Zoo staff to establish a vision for the sustainable use and stewardship of water and begin charting a new course for water management. The resulting vision, “to immerse and inspire people through a healthy zoo aquatic ecosystem,” was coupled with a mission to create restorative, sustainable water solutions to enhance animal wellness and the guest experience.

Biohabitats developed a Water Management Master Plan which included strategies to reduce overall water withdrawals from groundwater and municipal potable sources; improve water quality and aquatic habitat; better manage stormwater on and off site; and enhance water-related visitor experiences and educational opportunities. Strategies emphasized ecological and green infrastructure solutions, and included specific recirculating life-support systems, re-lining portions of water features, biofiltration wetlands for water quality improvement, expanded bottom aeration, and stormwater green infrastructure.