Minister salutes Zoological Society on turning 70

Commenting on the significance of the occasion, Minister Rambharat stated: “Every visit to the Emperor Valley Zoo is a reminder of the outstanding work of the ZSTT.

As the Society celebrates its 70th Anniversary today, the Zoo is leading the way in animal conservation and welfare; public education; care for the environment; and most recently recycling and waste management.” He added, “Today is a reflection on the foresight of those men and women who created the Society 70 years ago. We have much to be proud of and thankful for.” At that time in 1947, a group of conservation-minded individuals had a vision to advance the field of zoology and felt that the best way would be the establishment of a zoological garden. Some five years after, on 8th November 1952, the Emperor Valley Zoo opened its gates to the public.

Seventy years later, the Emperor Valley Zoo is vastly different to those early times where a small collection of animals was exhibited in cages.

Today, the Zoo is in an active upgrade programme transforming its exhibits into those befitting a world-class facility.

The enclosure housing the giant otter has been described by international zookeepers as among the best in the world and the animal collection is diverse with neotropical and international representation. Complementary educational and recreational activities which are a daily staple contribute to the Zoo’s reputation as a premier destination for families.

Credit for the enviable status which the ZSTT has earned comes from the leadership of a multi-sectoral board which has at its helm well-known environmentalist Gupte Lutchmedial.

With a vision for the ZSTT’s role that goes far beyond the zoo, this organisation is involved in several conservation activities, including leatherback turtle conservation at Manzanilla, manatee conservation and research in the Nariva Swamp and environmental advocacy on a number of issues of national and international importance.

“I am proud of the role that the ZSTT plays in saving species and protecting the environment,” said Lutchmedial. In expressing appreciation for having come this far, Lutchmedial asserted: “It’s been an evolving journey and the ZSTT would have certainly benefitted from the contributions of its members over the years to reach this milestone.”