New accessible pier at Zoo provides enhanced learning and exploration opportunities for families and students

Explore the prairie marsh like never before at the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo (Zoo). Students and families can examine the movement, respiration and adaptations of underwater life at the prairie marsh from the new accessible pier and lookout at the Saskatoon Zoo.

“We are very excited about this new enhancement to our facility and the educational opportunities it will provide for students and families visiting the Zoo,” says Jeff Mitchell, Zoo Manager. “We are so thankful for our continued partnership with the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation and the amazing work they do to raise funds for capital improvements to the Zoo.”

The new pier is fully accessible and enables wheelchair users to participate in pond-dipping activities. Net extenders are also available enabling users to have a deeper reach into the pond.

The wider dock not only improves viewing and mobility for all participants but also expands the capacity for school-based programming. Students will have the opportunity to learn more about the underwater invertebrates native to Saskatchewan, explore the importance of wetlands, and learn about the Sutherland Migratory Bird Sanctuary at the Forestry Farm Park.

Zoogoers can also explore the new pier by participating in the Saskatoon Zoo Society’s interpretive pond-dipping program available daily until September 2.

Construction of the new accessible pier was made possible thanks to the generous contribution from Greg and Olivia Yuel.

The Yuel's decision to donate to the Saskatoon Zoo's accessible pier represents their deeply rooted values of community support and inclusivity. Known for their work with The Rick Hansen Foundation, the Yuel’s are passionate about projects that directly benefit the community and promote accessibility for all individuals. Their dedication to enhancing recreational spaces reflects their belief in the power of nature and wildlife in childhood development. By supporting the Saskatoon Zoo’s accessible pier project, Greg and Olivia aim to create lasting impacts by ensuring that people of all abilities can enjoy and learn from the natural world in a safe and educational environment.

The pier is located at the back of the Zoo next to the pronghorn habitat. Be sure to explore this exciting new addition during your next visit.

The Zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visit saskatoon.ca/zoo to plan your next visit or learn more about the Zoo Season Pass.