Clay Center Utility Park and Zoo

Specific Need

To continue to raise funds for the reconstruction of the Clay Center Public Utility Commission Zoo and Utility Park.

Current Projects:

Zoo Themed Spalsh Pad:  We have alomst reached our fundraising goal.  We anticipate the Splash Pad to be open in late Spring of 2026.

 Small Animal Exhibit:  We will be starting construction of a new samll animal exbhit this fall that will house the bobcats, artic foxes and serval cats.

Mission

Our goal is to build spacious exhibits that include natural habitat and enrichment that is enjoyable for our animals, but also provides a pleasant experience to the observer at no cost.     

Profile

The Clay Center Zoo began with a pair of wild ducks in the early 1950s. In the late 1950s, the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) started construction of the zoo in Utility Park. Over the decades, the zoo grew into a rescue facility for many native animals. In the 1980s, the zoo underwent a renovation, followed by another in 2000. In 2016, the PUC decided to move forward with fundraising efforts for a new zoo. While the commission can cover the day-to-day operations of running and maintaining the zoo, it cannot afford the costs of constructing new facilities. Thanks to the generosity of many donors, the commission has raised enough funds to complete several key projects, including a retaining wall, sewer lift station, animal maintenance building, bear exhibit, small primate building, Patagonian Cavy exhibit, tropical bird exhibit, and the Welcome Center. The Welcome Center includes an education room, rental space, a gift shop, restrooms, and a covered back porch. The next construction project is a small animal exhibit for bobcats, arctic foxes, and serval cats. Your Match Day gift will complete the funding for the Splash Pad, which is expected to open by Memorial Day weekend in 2026. The Clay Center Zoo has always been, and will continue to be, a “no admission fee” zoo.