CONSERVATION and SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2020 CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY REPORT 2020

CONTENTS

03 A message from Dr. Kreger

04 Executive Summary

07 Saving Species: National Wildlife

13 Saving Spcies: International Wildlife

21 Wildlife Trade

22 Conservation Fundraising

23 Sustainability

25 Publications List A MESSAGE FROM DR. MICHAEL KREGER

I write this in June 2021. It is a hopeful Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership. time as people are getting vaccinated, We provided emergency support to businesses are reopening, and Zoos Victoria for rescuing animals guests are enthusiastically returning affected by the bushfires in Australia. to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium We continued reintroduction projects along with The Wilds, Zoombezi Bay, for the American burying beetle and Safari Golf Club. Last year at this and Eastern hellbenders. Due to time, we did not know what the future our over 30-year old partnerships in held. On the most beautiful sunny Central and Eastern Africa, Partners In days, our parking lots were empty. Conservation (PIC) was able to work People in Ohio and worldwide were virtually with cooperatives and gorilla suffering from the pandemic, many conservation organizations without not surviving. an in-person annual visit. In fact, both of the conservation fundraisers, the And what about wildlife conservation? Rwandan Fête and Wine For Wildlife, Over the years, we supported tested out a virtual format. We would projects that help people living with have rather held in-person events, but wildlife to monitor those animals, our supporters still tuned in and gave MICHAEL KREGER, PH.D. fight poaching, educate and build generously so we could continue our Vice President of awareness, encourage human-wildlife conservation efforts. Finally, a new Conservation and Sustainability coexistence, develop alternative conservation fundraising strategy livelihoods, and restore and protect – a more progressive and nimble habitat. During the pandemic, approach – was developed and however, many projects came to a approved by the Zoo Board. That standstill due to precautions. National should put us on steady ground into parks closed, ecotourism stopped, the future. and in some areas poaching made its ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS resurgence. In the world of sustainability, AEP (American Electric Power) Ohio built This report would not have been The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a demonstration microgrid that uses possible without the contributions of like zoos everywhere, pooled its solar power to provide energy to the staff throughout the Columbus Zoo and resources to continue to provide salt water life support system that the Aquarium, The Wilds, and Safari Golf Club the best animal care possible and polar bears rely on. The new Suzie from many different departments. Thanks support its staff while holding true Edwards Conservation Education especially to Alison Edwards, Conservation to its conservation mission. As you Classrooms were built with 165 solar Specialist, for coordinating this effort and browse through this report, you panels on the roof. And we continued drafting this report. will see that our conservation and composting and recycling. sustainability programs adapted to the unpredictable circumstances. There is a conservation culture here While we put a temporary hold on at the Zoo and all of its facilities. The the conservation grants program, we good news is that not even a global were able to fund 49 projects and pandemic can take that away. Please organizations, including the Ohio enjoy this report. Wildlife Center and the Manatee

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 3 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife

Columbus Zoo Conservation Great Backyard Bird Count Manatees at the Columbus Zoo and Sustainability Program • From February 14-17, participants and Aquarium • New funding strategy was created. observed 30 species of wintering • Two rescued manatees finished • The conservation program is now birds throughout Zoo grounds. their rehabilitation at the Zoo and coupled with sustainability program. Observations and data collected were transported back to Florida through this citizen science initiative for their release. Two more rescued Hellbenders help scientists better understand orphaned manatees were brought • The Zoo released 267 hellbenders global bird populations before one to the Zoo to begin the second and The Wilds released 20 of their annual migrations. stage of their rehabilitation. hellbenders into Ohio and West Virginia streams. These animals Mussels at the Columbus Zoo Manatee Rescue and hatched and spent three years in Freshwater Mussel Conservation Rehabilitation Partnership human care before release. and Research Center • 116 manatee rescues were • Staff successfully transformed conducted, of which 38 manatees were rescued and released on site Motus three species in vitro, two of these and 78 required rehabilitation. • The Motus towers at the Zoo species continued to grow past the and The Wilds detected several juvenile stage. This will eventually migratory bird species, including allow us to increase the number American Burying Beetle Swainson’s thrush, wood thrush, of freshwater mussels that are • 325 American burying beetles American woodcock, common reintroduced each year. were released at The Wilds. The nighthawk, black tern, red-eyed • Two species of host fish were Wilds trapped 65 beetles a total of vireo, and eastern whip-poor-will. confirmed for two mussel species. 108 times over the course of the year, indicating high post-release survival. Lights Out Columbus Florida Reef Tract • During fall migration, volunteers Recovery Program monitored bird collisions with • The Zoo received 18 explanted Prairies Restoration buildings in downtown Columbus. coral colonies to maintain until they • The Wilds burned 54 acres to 112 birds from 37 species and two can be returned to Florida when promote natural regrowth of native bats were collected. Survivors Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease plants in the area. were rehabilitated at Ohio Wildlife is no longer a threat. Center and released. Healthy Forest, Healthy Wildlife Ohio Wildlife Center • 10 acres were planted with native Bird projects at The Wilds • The Center’s wildlife hospital species and invasive plant species • Nine American kestrel nest boxes on treated 8,105 patients from were removed from 40 acres. telescoping poles were installed. 166 species. • Seven barn owl nests produced a total of 26 chicks.

4 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 International Wildlife

Partners In Conservation (PIC) International Elephant Zoos Victoria • PIC awarded $253,300 to seven Foundation (IEF) • $10,000 from the Columbus partners through grants. • IEF supported 27 projects that Zoo’s emergency grants fund and • PIC hosted its first virtual Rwandan protected elephants in 12 countries. donations made by Zoo staff and Fête. supporters was donated to the Zoos Okapi Conservation Project Victoria Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Project Monitoring • The Okapi Conservation Project Fund. • We visited three projects in the created infrastructure to help the Democratic Republic of Congo and local people reduce their need for Painted Dog Research Trust (PDRT) Republic of Congo that are supported forest resources. • Columbus Zoo’s Project Designer Ed by the Zoo. Buns designed and produced bumper Save the Tasmanian Devil Project Association of Zoos and Aquariums stickers that remind drivers to slow • 26 young were born in Save the (AZA) Saving Animals From down in wildlife areas in Zimbabwe. Extinction (SAFE) Programs Tasmanian Devil Program facilities. • PDRT staff conducted 15 school visits • The Columbus Zoo and The reaching 465 students. Wilds participated in 9 AZA SAFE AZA Elephant Endotheliotropic conservation programs. Herpesvirus (EEHV) Working Group • EEHV monitoring guidelines were SAFE Asian Elephant updated. • During the social media campaign for Asian Elephant Awareness Month, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund participants shared 233 posts and International (DFGFI) reached 18.4 million people with • 80 gorilla trackers monitored and conservation messages! protected 110 human-habituated mountain gorillas in Volcanoes Polar Bears International (PBI) National Park, Rwanda. • PBI developed new ways to attach transmitters to bears to collect data Lola Ya Bonobo on their movements. • 51 bonobos, including nine • PBI is utilizing remote cameras to give newly-orphaned infants, received MANATEE RESCUE advanced warning to towns when rehabilitative care. & REHABILITATION bears are in the area. PARTNERSHIP Pan African Sanctuary Alliance 116 manatee rescues were (PASA) conducted, of which 38 Wild Nature Institute • PASA members rescued 239 primates manatees were rescued • Doug Cavener photographed Zoo from the illegal wildlife trade. and released on site and 78 giraffes for a study on the heritability required rehabilitation. of spots.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 5 WILDLIFE TRADE

Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA) • WTA endorsed three global initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of future pandemics by combatting wildlife trafficking, closing high-risk wildlife markets, and other efforts. It also provided language for the Preventing Future Pandemics Act of 2020.

FUND RAISING AND STAFF SUPPORT • Wine for Wildlife raised over $208,000 to support the Columbus Zoo Fund For Conservation grant program. • Zoo employees raised $12,776 for conservation projects. • Zoo guests donated $8,568.62 through the coin walls to support WINE FOR WILDLIFE conservation projects. Raised over $208,000 to support the • The Animal Programs team donated over $20,000 to cheetah Columbus Zoo Fund For Conservation conservation. grant program. SUSTAINABILITY

Plastic Free Ecochallenge • In July, the Zoo led 5,132 participants from 381 teams to reduce single-use plastic. The Zoo’s team consisted of 116 participants who completed 2,585 actions.

Gorillas on the Line • 6,194 electronic devices were collected and recycled, which generated $2,000 for gorilla conservation and reduced the need for coltan mining in gorilla habitat.

Microgrid • In partnership with AEP Ohio, a microgrid was built to provide solar energy to the Polar Frontier saltwater life support system.

Suzie Edwards Conservation Education Classrooms • This new classroom building includes 165 solar panels.

Recycling and Composting • The Zoo recycled over 100 tons of material and composted more than 1,300 tons of animal waste and food scraps. The Wilds recycled 3.31 tons of inoperative appliances, electronics and equipment.

6 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES Columbus Zoo Conservation and Sustainability Program

One thing that the pandemic taught 1. contributions to an organization requests for assistance (i.e, us is that conservation programing as part of an agreement, such as Association of Zoos & Aquarium (AZA) must be nimble, adaptable, to house endangered species (i.e., request). and progressive to meet future Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation conservation needs. One way Partnership) The third bucket focuses on projects the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium tied to Zoo regions and The Wilds. 2. organizations where we sit on (Zoo) addressed this is through Each region will be represented the board or have a high level of hosting virtual conservation fund by up to six conservation projects participation raising events. This year’s unique or organizations. These will be circumstances also led to the 3. conservation-related facilities that true partnerships that may include development of a new conservation we maintain and operate (i.e., the sustained multi-year funding and staff funding strategy that was approved Columbus Zoo Freshwater Mussel expertise. by the Board in December. The Conservation and Research Center). new strategy has four “buckets” for The funds in the last bucket will be funding conservation projects that fall The second bucket holds funds to awarded through a small, competitive in to different categories. be used in emergency conservation grants program similar to the current situations. These funds are for Columbus Zoo Fund For Conservation The first bucket’s purpose is to addressing immediate conservation grant program. This will provide provide annual support to core needs such as field equipment support to start-up projects worldwide organizations. These include: replacement, travel to monitor or in conservation, science, and assist with projects, and unforeseen sustainability.

PROVIDE ANNUAL HOLD FUNDS FOCUS ON AWARD FUNDS SUPPORT TO CORE TO BE USED IN PROJECTS TIED TO THROUGH A SMALL, ORGANIZATIONS EMERGENCY ZOO REGIONS AND COMPETITIVE CONSERVATION THE WILDS GRANTS PROGRAM SITUATIONS

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CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 7 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife Motus Hellbender Two Motus tracking stations, one Listed as Near Threatened on the at the Zoo and one at The Wilds, IUCN Red List of Threatened Species™, continue to track birds that are fitted eastern hellbender abundance in with small radio transmitters as part of Ohio and West Virginia has declined an international monitoring network dramatically over the last three coordinated by Birds Canada. In decades. A statewide effort to reverse 2020, species detected included: this trend is being led by the Ohio Swainson’s thrush, wood thrush, Hellbender Partnership (OHP), which American woodcock, common includes the Zoo, The Wilds, other nighthawk, black tern, red-eyed vireo, zoos, academic, and government and eastern whip-poor-will. These organizations. birds are part of research projects for which our data is very useful. As more Shores Head Zookeeper Pete zoos and other organizations join the Johantgen is the Hellbender Project international network, we will have Coordinator at the Zoo. The Zoo a better understanding of migratory rears young hellbenders from eggs bird behavior. This information is also collected in their native range, waits used for basic biological research, for them to hatch, and then cares identifying and protecting important for them until they are of age to be bird areas, and urban planning. released. When they are about 3 years old, they are translocated to release sites of high quality habitat in eastern Ohio. In 2020, the Zoo released 267 hellbenders, who had hatched in 2017, at three sites in two creeks. Prior to release, all animals received a small tag for monitoring. The Wilds follows similar rearing protocol and released 20 hellbenders in a West Virginia stream this year. Additionally, The Wilds’ resident adult female hellbender, Mittens, produced eggs for the first time, which is the first step ZOO-REARED HELLBENDERS in developing a captive breeding Shores headkeeper Pete Johantgen program. releases Zoo-reared hellbenders.

DID YOU KNOW? Hellbenders grow up to 29” in length and are also known as waterdogs or snot otters due to the thick layer of mucous covering their skin.

8 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife Lights Out Columbus Lights Out Columbus is an initiative focused on spreading awareness about the impact that lights have on migratory birds who travel at night. Every spring and fall, millions of birds migrate through Ohio on their way to or from their breeding grounds. Many birds migrate at night, and lights on tall buildings or aimed at the sky can disorient them and draw them in to buildings. This causes many birds to strike windows or circle buildings until they fall from exhaustion. Lights Out Columbus is working to change that. The program spreads awareness throughout the community. It relies on volunteers to walk the community and collect injured birds that have collided with a building. From August 15 - November 2, 40 Lights Out volunteers, including Zoo staff, donated 612 hours and walked 778 miles. 112 birds from 37 species and two bats were collected, rehabilitated, and released.

VOLUNTEERS AND ZOO STAFF: 40 612 778 112 2 VOLUNTEERS HOURS DONATED MILES WALKED BIRDS BATS COLLECTED REHABILITATED

Great Backyard Bird Count The Great Backyard Bird Count is an annual citizen science initiative where people observe birds and contribute data that helps us to better understand bird population trends around the world. From February 14th - 17th, participants observed birds from the Zoo’s Business Office and Habitat Hollow in addition to taking daily ‘bird walks’ on grounds. 30 species were observed, an increase from nine species in 2018.

Bird Projects at The Wilds Staff and volunteer Darlene Sellick installed nine American kestrel nest boxes on telescoping poles. This allows the boxes to be monitored easily and safely. Staff also monitored barn owls. In 2020, there were seven active owl nests, which BIRD PROJECTS produced a total of 26 chicks. This is the highest number that has been recorded AT THE WILDS in any year since record keeping began. Staff banded the chicks for future Jack and Tom Henry monitor owl identification. populations at The Wilds as part of a long-term study.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 9 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife Mussels at The Columbus Zoo Freshwater Mussel Conservation and Research Center Freshwater mussels play a critical role in healthy river ecology, but several species IN 2020, THE MUSSEL CONSERVATION AND are considered endangered at local, state, RESEARCH CENTER’S ACTIVITIES INCLUDED: and national levels. In their native range, • Three mussel species were transformed in vitro, two of three species mussels require a host fish in their life cycle continued to grow past the juvenile stage. to fully transform from larvae into juveniles. This stage can be bypassed by growing • Two species of host fish were confirmed for two mussel species. larvae in a petri dish and supplying them • Mussel facility staff redesigned and reconfigured mussel tanks at the with all the protein and nutrients at the Research Center to provide better water flow from the river, eliminate anoxic sediment, and make them easier to clean. appropriate temperature and pH that they would receive from the host fish. This in • Dr. Ieva Roznere became the Science Director and Kaitlin Ulin became vitro (in a petri dish) propagation method the In Vitro Research Associate. has the potential to produce thousands • The Center was awarded $20,000 for a grant request called “Otter of juveniles instead of a couple hundred Creek restoration: freshwater mussel propagation and release,” to propagate the giant floater and the threeridge mussel. produced from several fish. The Center is the first in the state and is among only a • A mobile mussel cart was designed and built which will allow staff to few in the nation to use in vitro propagation. share mussel information in a unique way at educational venues.

Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project (FRTRP) The Florida Reef Tract stretches over 360 miles and is one of the largest reefs in the world. More than 1,000 fish species live in and around the reef. It is estimated that Florida’s reef-related businesses bring in over $8.5 billion every year. However, the reef is threatened by Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease (SCTLD). Because the disease is spreading throughout the Caribbean and killing many corals, the Federal and State agencies that manage the reef asked facilities accredited by the AZA for help as part of the FRTRP. In March, the Zoo received 18 coral colonies that were removed from the reef FLORIDA REEF TRACT FLORIDA REEF TRACT ahead of the disease. We will keep these RESCUE PROJECT RESCUE PROJECT corals until it is safe to return them to Florida. Shores keeper Ramon Villaverde Large Flower Coral housed at The Zoo also participates in AZA’s Saving tends to coral. the Zoo. Animals From Extinction (SAFE) Atlantic Corals program, which is a partner of the FRTRP.

10 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife Manatees at Columbus Zoo and Aquarium The Columbus Zoo is one of only a few facilities in the United States with the space and experience needed to rehabilitate rescued manatees who require long- term care before they can be returned to Florida waters. In October, manatees, Bananatee and Tostone, completed their rehabilitation at the Zoo and were transported back to Florida for eventual release. Later in October, two females, Scampi and Squirrel, traveled from the Miami Seaquarium to Columbus with the Zoo’s Animal Care staff and a Zoo veterinarian to begin their rehabilitation. Squirrel and Scampi are the 32nd and 33rd manatees to receive care at the Zoo as part of the Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRRP). Facilities like the Zoo play an important role in the protection of this species by helping them survive natural and man-made threats, including exposure to red tide, cold stress, disease, boat strikes, crushing by flood gates or locks and entanglement or ingesting of MANATEES AT THE ZOO fishing gear. Orphaned manatee Scampi familiarizes herself with new Manatee Rescue & Rehabilitation Partnership (MRRP) surroundings and the Zoo’s As a partner, the Zoo supports MRRP through annual donations and by helping surrogate manatee mom Stubby. with the second stage of rehabilitation for rescued manatees. In 2020, MRRP conducted 116 manatee rescues of which 38 rescues were assist and release situations and 78 manatees were brought into rehabilitation facilities. Manatees needing continued care went to four stage one rehabilitation or critical care facilities. Four additional centers, including the Columbus Zoo, provide second stage or long-term rehabilitation.

Ohio Wildlife Center (OWC) OWC’s mission is to foster awareness and appreciation of Ohio’s native wildlife through education, rehabilitation, and wildlife health studies. OWC’s free wildlife hospital cares for thousands of injured, sick, or orphaned wild animals each year with the goal of returning them to the wild. In 2020, the OWC wildlife hospital treated 8,105 patients from 166 species, including 3,112 birds from 114 species. OWC also coordinates Lights Out Columbus, an initiative focused on making Columbus a safer city for birds to migrate through at night. The Zoo financially supports OWC, and staff members participate in Lights Out Columbus. OHIO WILDLIFE CENTER OWC staff releases rehabilitated a juvenile bald eagle. AmeriCorps The Wilds continued its AmeriCorps VISTA program, which adapted to the pandemic’s limitations by offering virtual ecology service-learning activities for teens. VISTA also developed, coordinated, and led an additional virtual program for youth across the U.S. and overseas. The Wilds hosted an AmeriCorps position, which focused on water quality, pollinators, and planting native shrub species.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 11 SAVING SPECIES National Wildlife Prairies Restoration The Wilds is located on nearly 10,000 acres of reclaimed surface mine land. Unrestored sections of the property have poor soils, non-native species which were planted during reclamation, and low plant and animal diversity. Since 2004, 672 acres of native prairie have been established onsite, which support native pollinators and grassland birds. 2020 was the fourth year that The Wilds monitored soil health to better understand how restored prairies change with time. Maintenance of restored prairies continued with a prescribed burn of a 54-acre prairie along Zion Ridge in January.

Healthy Forest, Healthy Wildlife Many of the reclaimed forests at The Wilds are low quality habitat for wildlife. Through the Healthy Forest, Healthy Wildlife (HFHW) initiative, staff is removing PRAIRIES RESTORATION invasive species, planting native species, and constructing wildlife habitat Restoring prairies at The Wilds structures. In 2020, staff planted 10 acres of natives and removed invasive species creates habitat for pollinators and from a 40-acre plot, increasing the total acreage of the project to 74. In January grasslands birds. 2019, The Wilds staff constructed a vernal pool in the restored forest to provide amphibian and macroinvertebrate habitat, and to provide water sources for birds, bats, and mammals. In 2020, staff continued monitoring these species through acoustic monitors and nest boxes for small mammals.

American Burying Beetle The Wilds is one of the few institutions to work on the recovery of this critically endangered species. It is the only site in the United States where the beetles are both bred and released. In 2020, 325 American burying beetles were released. 65 beetles were trapped 108 times, indicating their survival after release. Before The Wilds began the reintroduction project, American burying beetles hadn’t been seen in Ohio since 1974!

AMERICAN BURYING BEETLE American burying beetles are bred and released at The Wild

12 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife Partners In Conservation (PIC) could be susceptible to COVID-19, build conservation awareness and PIC was founded at the Columbus DFGFI had to implement a new health park support in communities in the Zoo and Aquarium in 1991 with the and safety protocol for trackers. This surrounding area. This is accomplished goal of working with local people to included daily health checks and work by helping local people economically. benefit conservation and humanitarian rotations during which trackers lived PIC provided $15,000 to the Akagera programs throughout Rwanda and isolated from their families and the Management Company to continue the bordering countries in Africa. Through larger community for extended periods multi-phase Community Center Project funds raised at the annual Rwandan to limit possible transmission of the at Nyankora. Fête benefit, sales of Rwandan virus. merchandise, speaking honorariums, Gorilla Doctors (Mountain Gorilla donations, and fundraising by students International Gorilla Conservation Veterinary Project), supported participating in The Zoo Connection Programme (IGCP), supported since since 1992. program, PIC provided grants totaling 2010. $40,000 was awarded to Gorilla Doctors to pay for the salaries and $252,300 in 2020. IGCP received $40,000 for the development and implementation of health benefits for field veterinarians to care for gorillas in Rwanda, Uganda, Due to the pandemic, 2020 was the SARS CoV-2 and Ebola contingency and DRC. These veterinarians conduct first year that a PIC manager was plans and response protocols for health monitoring, interventions, post- unable to meet with project grantees Rwanda, Uganda, and Democratic mortems of gorillas, and help train and in person. However, through working Republic of Congo (DRC). mentor veterinary students, trackers, virtually with long-term partners, Ubumwe Community Center and guides who monitor and protect we were able to send and receive gorillas. In 2020, Gorilla Doctors (UCC), supported since 2006. merchandise. conducted 38 clinical interventions Thanks to PIC support and to free gorillas from snares, provided engagement, the UCC is a major Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International life-saving antibiotics to treat severe education and job training facility for (DFGFI), supported since 1991. respiratory illness, and assisted people with disabilities near Volcanoes PIC awarded $35,000 to DFGFI to gorillas in various other serious clinical National Park. Through PIC’s donation support mountain gorilla protection situations. Gorilla Doctors had staff and monitoring activities, scholarships of $60,000 and working closely with in the forest almost every day to for five Karisoke Research Center UCC leadership, the UCC provided conduct 287 health checks and visual staff members pursuing a university training for job skills, computer skills, check-ups. There was great concern degree, and provided school supplies general education, and music, athletic, that habituated gorilla troops would for students at Bisate Primary School. and other education programs for 898 be susceptible to COVID-19 due to Thanks to PIC’s contribution, DFGFI’s physically or mentally challenged youth their proximity to park staff or when rangers provided daily protection and adults. gorillas venture into the surrounding and monitoring of the habituated farms. However, there is no laboratory gorillas who live in 10 family groups in Akagera National Park, evidence that SARS CoV-2 infections supported since 2015. Volcanoes National Park. The rangers have occurred in human-habituated Akagera National Park is the found and destroyed 327 snares. Nine mountain gorillas nor other great apes largest and only savanna park in babies were born in monitored gorilla in the region. Rwanda. PIC works with the park’s families. Due to concern that primates community engagement manager to

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 13 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife Nyungwe Forest Conservation Strong Roots, supported since 2011. Project (PCFN), supported since 1999. Strong Roots is based near Kahuzi- Nyungwe National Park is the second Biega National Park, home to the largest national park in Rwanda. This critically endangered Grauer’s gorillas biodiverse park is home to 310 bird in the DRC. Strong Roots grows tree species, 75 mammal species (including saplings and then provides them to 13 primates), and more plant species local communities who use these trees than anywhere else in the country. for fuel and carving as an alternative In 2020, PIC supported beekeeping to harvesting wood in and around the projects at PCFN, which offer benefits park. In 2020, PIC provided $35,000 to to beekeepers and eliminates assist with this project, which allowed accidental beekeeping-related forest 139,951 trees to be planted near the fires in the park. PIC awarded $41,200 park. In the future, the trees planted NYUNGWE FOREST to PCFN to assist with capacity through this initiative could also be CONSERVATION PROJECT building. This included funds for the used as a wildlife corridor to link the Since PIC assisted with providing beekeepers’ union to hold meetings, national park to the Itombwe Nature better equipment and moving explore new product streams, improve Reserve, reconnecting isolated animal bee hives out of the rainforest, no marketing of all bee products, offer populations. This partnership has made forest fires have been started by follow-up and refresher training for it possible to plant 1,703,786 trees in beekeepers. cooperative members, and support this region since 2010. Strong Roots to attend a local trade fair. Funds also promotes peaceful coexistence also went to supporting a revolving between people and wildlife. 69 fund for former poachers. The fund is households that had their crops essentially a credit union for some of destroyed by wildlife from the national the most marginalized people in the park received a goat after sensitization community. Low interest loans have training and agreeing to forfeit the been used to purchase pigs and goats goat if they return to relying on forest for small-scale livestock production and resources. PIC also helped Strong to construct beehives for sale. Because Roots to provide three scholarships to of this alternative income, people who students pursing higher education. PIC previously relied on forest resources has supported 31 scholarships since no longer need them and now assist 2010. STRONG ROOTS park staff in finding and removing Strong Roots’ unique conservation snares and other patrolling activities. model helps local and indigenous communities work together with researchers and students to conserve the biodiversity of the local lands.

14 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife Project Monitoring In the Republic of Congo, most of around the bai. We also supported the One of the ways that we monitor the wildlife has been hunted to near construction and amenities (such as Columbus Zoo-supported projects is extinction or has disappeared due internet access) in the research camp. through site visits. In 2020, we had to habitat loss from agriculture and the opportunity to visit three projects logging. However, wildlife continues The research camp at Goualougo before the pandemic struck. Dr. Kreger to thrive where it is protected in the Triangle is a 19 km (11.8 miles) hike visited Lola Ya Bonobo in the DRC, and Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, which through the forest from Mbeli Bai. We Mbeli Bai and Goualougo Triangle in is where Mbeli Bai and Goualougo were hosted by project coordinator the Republic of Congo. These projects Triangle are located. Both areas have Dr. David Morgan, of the Lincoln have been supported since 2000, research stations. The long-term Park Zoo and Wildlife Conservation 2001, and 1995 respectively. occupation of the research stations, Society. The project focuses on the employment and training of local ecology and behavior of gorillas and Lola Ya Bonobo is a center for bonobo people in all aspects of research and chimpanzees that share the same rescue, rehabilitation, and release as running the camps, and involvement habitat. Every day, the research team well as an educational facility serving with local communities, have provided tracks habituated gorilla groups and primarily school children from nearby a strong buffer against poaching that collects data on how they behave, Kinshasa. Hosted by founder Claudine would otherwise occur. their movements, what they eat, Andre and general director Fanny and with whom they interact. These Manesi, we were able to observe At Mbeli Bai we were able to see the observations not only show tool use, veterinary care of orphaned bonobos, observation tower, financed in part but also gorillas learning from and bonobo socialization programs, by the Zoo, that looks over the bai playing with chimpanzees! This is the and outdoor classes taught by Bles (wetland carved by elephants). There, only site where this kind of interaction Stadium. Columbus Zoo supports Bles’ under the leadership of Dr. Claudia between two great apes is known to salary and the education program. Stephan of the Wildlife Conservation occur. These scientific observations Together, with the release project Society, Congolese and international contribute to the management of at Ekolo Ya Bonobo Reserve, this researchers study eastern lowland protected areas. We also visited an project is making a significant impact gorillas, forest elephants, and forest area outside the park, called Mondika, on the conservation of the critically buffalo. These long-term studies have which may eventually be protected endangered bonobo in the only continued for as long as 30 years. because of its potential for gorilla country where it occurs. The studies focus on behavior of tourism. Mondika has three habituated the animals over generations in and gorilla groups.

Bles Stadium teaches a conservation education lesson to students Lola Ya Bonobo staff. visiting Lola Ya Bonobo. CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 15 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife AZA Saving Animals From Heart of Africa and Asia Quest Curator to recognize polar bears, caribou, Extinction (SAFE) Programs Adam Felts acts as the SAFE Asian Tundra Buggies, snow machines, The Columbus Zoo and The Wilds Elephant chair. Danielle Ross, VP and humans. PBI is working with leads or participates in 9 AZA SAFE of the Conservation Education and a network of cameras that are conservation programs. Each program Engagement Department, led the strategically placed on rooftops includes staff from a coalition of zoos social media campaign for Asian where they can see polar bears and/or aquariums that work together Elephant Awareness Month. While in the distance. When bears with partners in the field to address the 2020 campaign was smaller approach towns, the cameras send species-specific conservation issues. than initially planned, participating alerts to officials who can warn We are participating in Asian elephant, organizations shared 233 posts with people about the incoming bear. giraffe, lion, black rhino, shark and a total reach of 18.4 million views and • PBI partnered with 3M to create, ray, Atlantic coral, North American interactions. test, and refine various mechanical songbirds, tree kangaroo, and gorilla and combination adhesive/ programs. Wild Nature Institute mechanical solutions for attaching Biology Professor Dr. Doug Cavener transmitters to polar bear fur. SAFE Asian Elephant from Penn State University visited the • Using remote access camera In spite of the challenges presented Zoo on behalf of Wild Nature Institute. systems placed at four dens in by the pandemic, the SAFE Asian He took photos of the giraffes as part Svalrbard, PBI recorded 290,000 Elephant team continued to work of a study on the heritability of spots. video files and images of den on goals set in their three-year This information will be combined with activities. action plan. These goals include the data from other zoos and giraffes in • In April and May, PBI’s online development of a registry for Asian Tanzania to determine if spot patterns education programs had 113,513 elephants in human care throughout in Masai giraffes are inherited and viewers. their range, supporting research and contribute to first-year calf survival. the care of animals in range states on EEHV (Elephant Endotheliotropic Polar Bears International (PBI) Herpesvirus), and public outreach PBI’s mission is to conserve polar about Asian elephants and their bears and the sea ice they depend conservation issues. SAFE partners on. Through media, science, and raised funds for the development of advocacy, PBI inspires people to care a qPCR laboratory and staff training about the Arctic, the threats to its at the National Trust for Nature future, and the connection between Conservation in Chitwan, Nepal, which this remote region and our global climate. In addition to providing is important for EEHV Treatment. Polar bear Progress was made on all goals. funding, some Zoo staff are PBI “Arctic Sumatra, Indonesia, is the focus for the Ambassadors.” registry work and will serve as a model for other range countries. In 2020, PBI’s activities included: • Testing the ability for cameras with artificial intelligence technology

16 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife International Elephant Foundation (IEF) IEF supports and operates elephant conservation and education programs in managed facilities and in their native range. Their programs focus on elephant management, protection, and scientific research. In 2020, IEF was involved in 27 projects that protected elephants across 12 countries. In addition to providing funds, the Zoo was represented on the IEF Board, and our staff also served on grant review teams.

In 2020, IEF’s activities included: • Constructing two ranger stations in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda. • Continuing conservation education for students in communities surrounding Kibale National Park, Uganda, by facilitating home-learning through the Crayons for Kibale Program. • Conducting over 700 hours of aerial patrol, covering 78,403 kilometers, over Tsavo Conservation Area in Kenya. • Surveying 206 individuals in six Kenyan villages about their experiences in human-elephant conflict. • Tracking nine satellite collared elephants in the Zambezi-Chobe Floodplain Wildlife Dispersal Area, Zambia to investigate elephant movements and habitat connectivity. • Funding patrols in three Northern Rangelands Trust Conservancy counties in Kenya. • Training 277 people in Namibia in People and Elephants Amicably Co-Existing (PEACE) Project education. • Forming a Human-Elephant Conflict (HEC) Mitigation Ranger unit near Kafue National Park, Zambia. • Training 20 members of a Community Elephant Protection Team in elephant monitoring and conservation, and HEC mitigation in Pu Mat National Park, Vietnam. • Mobilizing 20 Buffer Zone Community Forest User Groups for the restoration of degraded forest habitat in elephant corridors near Bardiya National Park, Asian elephant Nepal. • Constructing 78 lookout points in 11 villages near Kaziranga National Park, India from which to monitor and deter crop-raiding behavior by wildlife, including elephants. • Supporting three public service announcements targeting travelers in Asia and focusing on demand reduction for ivory. These will launch in Chinese transportation hubs once widespread travel restrictions are lifted. • Supporting patrols that protect the largest connected breeding herd of critically endangered Sumatran elephants in Way Kambas National Park, Indonesia. • Supporting the construction of 100 meters (328 feet) of power fencing to use as HEC barriers in Aceh Jaya, Indonesia. • Removing over 883 snares across all IEF supported projects.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 17 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife Okapi Conservation Project (OCP) of weather conditions and a Save the Tasmanian Devil OCP works in the DRC to protect the secure place to store supplies. Program (STDP) natural habitat of the endemic, endangered This building will also house STDP is the official response to the okapi and indigenous Mbuti pygmies the Education Team’s new radio threat of extinction of the Tasmanian living in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. OCP broadcast studio. devil due to Devil Facial Tumor Disease develops sustainability and stewardship • The World Okapi Day (October 18) (DFTD). DFTD is a transmissible, fatal programs which highlight the viability of program was broadcast over the form of cancer that causes legions and the region’s biodiversity and aid in the radio allowing people to celebrate tumors, usually on the animal’s face survival of native species like the okapi, while complying with pandemic and mouth, which quickly leads to its which is under increasing threat from restrictions. starvation due to the rapid growth of the habitat destruction and illegal human masses. STDP is developing a vaccine activities. The organization develops an to combat DFTD and is also creating economic and educational foundation for an assurance population of healthy the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. devils through breeding in human care. In 2020, 26 young were born in STDP In 2020, OCP’s activities included: facilities. • Finishing the construction of the Institute in Congo for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN) assistant warden’s residence. The residence is located at Epulu Station, giving the warden increased oversight of ICCN Eco-Guard operations and faster emergency responses. • Mbuti Pygmies took a larger role with OCP operations by assisting in the camera trap program and helping track okapi. • Constructing five new clean water sources around two villages. • Distributing 70,000 seedlings to farmers across the Reserve. • About 30,000 children were reached through education programs. • 4,255 patients were treated at the OCP dispensary. • The Women’s Group Center was completed in Epulu, providing a place for the group to meet regardless Tasmanian Devil

18 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife AZA Elephant Endotheliotropic Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Lola Ya Bonobo Herpesvirus (EEHV) Working International (DFGFI) Lola Ya Bonobo rehabilitation and Group DFGFI conserves, protects, and education center in the DRC is the only EEHV is a virus that can be contracted studies gorillas and their habitats in sanctuary where orphaned bonobos, by trunk to trunk contact and is often Africa. DFGFI works to protect gorillas rescued from the illegal bush-meat fatal because it causes hemorrhaging through regular monitoring of human- and pet trade, are rehabilitated and of blood vessels. habituated gorillas, scientific research, prepared for their eventual release. educating conservationists, and The Zoo supports bonobo care and conservation education programs In 2020, the EEHV Working Group’s helping communities who live in close for school children and visitors to the activities included: proximity to gorillas. • Holding an African elephant sanctuary. EEHV workshop that brought In 2020, DFGFI’s activities included: In 2020, Lola Ya Bonobo’s activities together subject-matter experts, • Employing 80 gorilla trackers included: including elephant caretakers and to monitor and protect the 110 • Conservation education programs veterinarians. human-habituated mountain which reached 3,143 students and • Updating the list of contacts and gorillas in Volcanoes National Park 250 teachers. 43 Kindness Clubs institutions who hold stocks of (VNP), Rwanda. visited the sanctuary providing Famciclovir and are able to share • Publishing 20 scientific papers 2,129 children and 125 teachers medicine on short notice. and building capacity of with the opportunity to see • Updating EEHV monitoring African scientists in the region bonobos first hand. guidelines. by providing employees with • Approximately 4,000 visitors came • Endorsing two EEHV-focused scholarships to pursue higher to the sanctuary before it closed research projects in 2020. education at the undergraduate, due to COVID-19 restrictions in graduate, and doctorate levels. March. • Teaching 18,000 people living • Nine young bonobos came into near VNP skills such as bamboo the sanctuary’s care. Two new propagation, animal husbandry, “surrogate mothers” were hired to agroforestry, mushroom cultivation help care for this influx of babies. and about kitchen gardens for • 51 bonobos received rehabilitative food production. care.

DID YOU KNOW? Living only in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Central Africa, Bonobos are the most endangered of the Great Apes.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 19 SAVING SPECIES International Wildlife Pan African Sanctuary Alliance 2020, and the monkeys arrived in bumper stickers to address the threat (PASA) 2021. that fast-moving vehicles pose when PASA is the largest coalition of wildlife • PASA produced a new book to animals cross roads in protected centers and sanctuaries across inspire African youth to become wildlife areas. Through a collaboration Africa. With a network of 23 member involved in conservation. PASA that included Zimbabwean community organizations in 13 African countries, member organizations are now representatives, Ed produced bumper PASA serves as a united coalition using it in their programs. stickers that feature animal photos fighting to protect and save African • Member organizations rescued and messages reminding drivers to primates from extinction. 239 primates from the illegal slow down. He also designed drafts for wildlife trade and poachers. billboards and posters. In 2020, PASA’s activities included: • PASA sanctuaries employed over • PASA launched Action for 700 people, adding $6 million to In 2020, PDRT’s other activities Chimpanzees, a program that their local economies. included: brings together West African • Giving a presentation about governmental officials, sanctuaries, Zoos Victoria vehicle-caused painted dog and other organizations to Due to the great need to help wildlife mortality events at the IUCN Save disrupt the illegal trade in after the bushfires that plagued Our Species workshop in Tanzania critically endangered western Australia at the end of 2019 and early focused on human wildlife conflict. chimpanzees. 2020, $10,000 from the Columbus • Attending the Carnivore Coalition • Although centers had to close to Zoo’s emergency grants fund and of the Kavango-Zambezi the public due to the pandemic, additional donations made by Zoo Transfrontier Park Initiative to staff at sanctuaries continued to supporters and staff, was donated to share updates with participants provide excellent care to over Zoos Victoria’s Bushfire Emergency from other range countries. 3,000 rescued and confiscated Wildlife Fund. These funds helped • Continuing to research den primates. Zoos Victoria to send their veterinary disturbances and are beginning to • PASA created an information portal teams to critical care facilities to treat collect data on how stress related for primate care professionals rescued animals who sustained injuries to human disturbances affects pup that helps member organizations from the fires. survival. obtain the PPE and supplies they • Conducting 15 school visits, which needed to keep themselves and Painted Dog Research Trust reached 465 students. During (PDRT) the animals safe from the virus. these visits, students learned PDRT is dedicated to the conservation • PASA and partners conducted about conservation, ecology and of the endangered painted dog in the largest rescue in its history, biodiversity in Zimbabwe. 128 Zimbabwe. A major threat to species working to bring 20 monkeys students visited PDRT facilities survival is mortality due to road kills confiscated from wildlife traffickers to participate in conservation from vehicle collisions. In 2020, from Zimbabwe to J.A.C.K. education activities. sanctuary in the DRC, with the Columbus Zoo’s Project Designer Ed intent to reintroduce as many to Buns assisted Dr. Greg Rasmussen, their native range as possible. Director of the Painted Dog Research Work on this process began in Trust, by designing and producing

20 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 WILDLIFE TRADE

Wildlife Trafficking Alliance The Wildlife Trafficking Alliance (WTA) is a coalition of more than 70 leading companies, non-profit organizations, and AZA accredited zoo and aquariums working together to reduce the supply and demand for illegal wildlife and wildlife products. WTA works with a variety of partners whose active engagement is essential to the success of WTA goals. The Zoo participates in WTA activities including serving on the Zoo and Aquarium Working Group.

In 2020, WTA’s activities included: • Public opinion polling and message testing to determine what messages capture the attention of the public and enable them to act. • Holding a summit to develop the Southern California Wildlife Confiscations Network. • With WTA leadership, AZA endorsed three global initiatives aimed at reducing the risk of future pandemics by combatting wildlife trafficking, closing high-risk wildlife markets, and other efforts. WTA also worked with Congressional offices to inform language for the Preventing Future Pandemics Act of 2020 (S. 4789/H.R. 8433)

WILDLIFE TRADE White rhinos are poached for their horns in range countries.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 21 CONSERVATION FUNDRAISING

• For the first time, Wine for Wildlife was a virtual event. Nevertheless, it raised over $208,000 to support Columbus Zoo conservation projects. • Zoo employees raised $12,776 for conservation projects. • In 2020, the coin walls around the Zoo raised $8,568.62, which was used for species-specific conservation projects. • The Animal Programs team donated over $20,000 to cheetah conservation. These funds were raised through programming and merchandise sales late in 2019. It also supported the Cheetah Conservation Fund by donating medical supplies that were sent to aid in the recovery of cheetahs confiscated from the illegal wildlife trade in Somaliland. • Since 2012, Animal Programs has supported conservation by selling pins and bracelets following animal presentations and experiences. These feature cheetahs, radiated tortoises, and penguins and are sold for $5 each. In 2020, in addition to funds for CCF, $5,000 was raised for the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB). A relatively new program featuring a workout class and sloths raised $5,000 for Zoo rainforest conservation projects.

DO WE HAVE ANY IMAGES OF WINE FOR WILDLIFE?

NEED

WINE FOR WILDLIFE An annual fundraising event to support global conservation initiatives.

22 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 SUSTAINABILITY

Plastic Free Ecochallenge Recycling and Composting Plastic Free Ecochallenge is an The Zoo and The Wilds promote international, month-long interactive recycling and composting at both initiative during which participants facilities as a way to model good earn points by reducing their use of stewardship of our planet and its single-use plastic. The initiative is led resources. In 2020, the Zoo recycled by the Zoo with zoo and aquarium over 100 tons of material including partners. 2020 was our third year electronic devices, and composted coordinating the event. During the over 1,300 tons of organic material month of July 5,132 participants from such as animal waste and food 381 teams spent 83,190 minutes scraps. The Wilds recycled 3.31 learning, and refused 15,666 plastic tons of inoperative appliances, PLASTIC FREE ECOCHALLNEGE bottles, 18,291 plastic straws and electronics and equipment. The Wilds Saving the planet by reducing 27,696 plastic containers. also converted it’s trash disposal single-use plastics. services to Kimble Companies in Gorillas on the Line order to utilize larger-scale recycling Gorillas on the Line is an annual options that include the ability to recycling campaign that encourages recycle cardboard, glass, plastic and participants to recycle handheld aluminum. An updated recycling electronics. These devices contain poster was developed and posted on coltan, a mineral found in the DRC every recycling bin to highlight the under gorilla habitat. The campaign items that can now be recycled at The is an opportunity to share gorilla Wilds. The Wilds also established a conservation messages with zoos, composting process for food waste in schools, companies and the greater the kitchen and restaurant areas. public in an effort to promote sustainable habits and human-wildlife coexistence. Through the Zoo’s 2020 collection efforts, approximately 120 pounds of devices were sent to GORILLAS ON THE LINE ECO-Cell to be recycled. Nationwide, Recycling hand held electronics to 6,194 devices were collected and protect gorillas and their habitat. recycled, generating $2,000 for gorilla conservation. Informational emails were shared with participants to spread conservation awareness as part of the AZA SAFE Gorilla program.

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 23 Microgrid In partnership with AEP (American Electric Power) Ohio, we now have a microgrid at the Zoo. The system will provide solar energy as well as provide a mechanism for resiliency in the event of a power loss. The grid will serve as a demonstration of the technology for other prospective users and projects. The microgrid supports the Life Support System Polar Saltwater electric meter. This grid includes 308 bifacial solar panels, a battery energy storage system (BESS), and a control system.

Suzie Edwards Conservation MICROGRID Education Building Construction of the AEP Ohio microgrid near Polar Frontier. In 2020, a new classroom building was added to the Conservation Education Engagement Department (CEED). This building will enable CEED to regularly teach classes to children and is also able to host large conferences if the need arises. 165 solar panels were installed on the roof of this building. Each panel is able to generate 400 watts of power under ideal conditions. The system will produce 77,507 kWh in the first year, which should offset approximately 90% of the building’s energy requirements. It has been operational and producing solar energy since July 31, 2020. Staff is also working toward making this building a zero waste space.

SUZIE EDWARDS CONSERVATION EDUCATION BUILDING 165 solar panels provide power to the Suzie Edwards Conservation Education Classrooms.

24 | CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 PUBLICATIONS LIST (STAFF MEMBER NAMES ARE IN BOLD) Edwards R et al (116 authors, including distribution and occupancy modeling RE Junge). Global phylogeography to study hellbender (Cryptobranchus and ancient evolution of the alleganiensis) occurrence based widespread human gut virus on eDNA surveys. Biological crassphage. Nature Microbiology Conservation 251:108787. 4(10):1727-1736, 2020. Pennings A, K Seeley, A Mathieu, A Jaffe JE, B Jourdan,Gorilla Doctors Foust, MM Garner, J Ramer. Feline Michael Kreger, Ph.D. Veterinary Group, MR Cranfield, herpesvirus infection in four captive Vice President of K Gilardi, D. Zimmerman. 2020. cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus) post- Conservation and Sustainability Anesthesia with medetomidine- vaccination. 2020. Journal of Zoo and Columbus Zoo and Aquarium ketamine and dexmedetomidine- Wildlife Medicine. 51(1):210-216. 9990 Riverside Drive ketamine in mountain gorillas (Gorilla PO Box 400, Powell, OH 43065 beringei beringei). Journal of Zoo and Sutherland, J., D. Mifsud, M. Stapleton, Tel: (614) 724-3409 Wildlife Medicine. 51(3). S. F. Spear, K. Greenwald. 2020. Fax: (614) 645-3465 Email: michael.kreger@ Environmental DNA Assessment columbuszoo.org Jones, R., R. Swab, and S. F. Spear. Reveals Restoration Success for 2020. Evaluating the Floral and Avian Mudpuppies (Necturus maculosus). The Conservation and Sustainability Communities of an Ohio Wetland at Herpetologica 76(4):366-374. Report 2020 was produced by the The Wilds: 7 Years After Restoration. Columbus Zoo and Aquarium’s The Ohio Journal of Science 120(2): Tobin K, D Zimmerman, J Rasmussen, Department of Conservation and 70-87. CD Hilton, RE Junge, D Armstrong, Sustainability. W Gann, L Haverson, S Gray, C Cray. Lituma, C. M., J. J. Cox, S. F. Spear, Establishment of acute phase protein J. W. Edwards, J. L. De La Cruz, and serum protein electrophoresis L. I. Muller, and W. M. Ford. 2020. intervals for pronghorn (Antilocapra Terrestrial Wildlife in the Post-mined Americana). Journal of Zoo and Appalachian Landscape: Status and Wildlife Medicine 51(2):321-325, 2020. Opportunities. Pages 135-166 in C. E. Zipper and J. Skousen, editors. Witzel, N. A., A. Taheri, B. T. Miller, R. Appalachia’s Coal-Mined Landscapes: H. Hardman, D. I. Withers, S. F. Spear, Resources and Communities in a and W. B. Sutton. 2020. Validation of New Energy Era. Springer, Cham, an environmental DNA protocol to Switzerland. detect a stream-breeding amphibian, the Streamside Salamander Neto, J. G. D. S., W. B. Sutton, S. F. (Ambystoma barbouri). Environmental Spear, M. J. Freake, M. Kéry, and B. R. DNA 2(4):554-556. Schmidt. 2020. Integrating species

CONSERVATION AND SUSTAINABILITY 2020 | 25 4850 POWELL ROAD, POWELL, OHIO 43065