This course is designed for keepers interested in getting involved with active conservation initiatives in the field or developing novel conservation projects. Participants will learn the skills for successful pursuit of opportunities involving field conservation and what they can contribute through their own facility to aid conservation efforts. 

At the conclusion of the course, participants will be equipped with the necessary knowledge, tools and resources to pursue opportunities to gain hands-on experience with organizations that are actively working with imperiled species within their home ranges. The course will begin by examining the bigger picture and the importance of why all zoo professionals should get involved and how zoo-based skills can be an asset in the field. As the course progresses, we will focus on how to get the process started, how to work with your organization to facilitate your goals and funding sources to get you there. Additionally, the course will examine methods on how to “think like a researcher” while developing zoo-based skills that can contribute to the wider knowledge base within the scientific community. The course will be taught by staff from the Living Collections Department and the Conservation and Science Department at the Phoenix Zoo that are involved in field conservation and include guest speakers.