On a good day, running a zoological facility includes plenty of day-to-day challenges. Responding to natural and human-caused disasters adds layers of complications. That’s why Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) was formed in 2019; we coordinate zoological professionals to assist colleagues before, during, and after disasters. Association of Zoos and Aquariums-accredited zoos have played an important role from the beginning.

When a disaster strikes zoos across the country, John Ball Zoo in Grand Rapids, Mich., is there to help. John Ball Zoo is part of the Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) Network, the largest zoological disaster response organization in the United States. John Ball Zoo is the second zoo in Michigan to join the ZDR3 Response Network and is on call to respond to disasters due to weather, financial difficulties, and other traumatic events.

How Zoological Disaster Responders Assist Their Colleagues in Need. When Hurricane Ian blasted through Florida in August 2022, it left 152 people dead and almost $113 billion in damage. Massive local, state, federal, and nonprofit resources were devoted to human welfare, and news stories focused on countless tales of human tragedies.