Outreach Programs
Did you know we can bring the Zoo to you? Outreach Programs are available to assist you in the classroom.
A Formal Outreach Program consists of an Animal Encounter in which Zoo staff chooses four to six education animals (depending on the length of the program and the number of participants) to inform students about the natural history, physical characteristics and adaptations of the chosen animals.
What a great way to add hands-on, inquiry-based activities to your curriculum! The Zoo Educator can adapt programs to fit individual classroom needs if scheduled at least two weeks in advance. Programs must be within a 150 mile radius of Watertown, SD.
View our Outreach Policy before booking your presentation.
Available Programs:
- Animal Wrappers
- Amazing Adaptations & Dazzling Defenses
- Habitats
- Rep-tales
- Fear Factor
- Myths & Misconceptions
- Web of Life
- Classy Animals
- Zoo to You- Special Programs to fit your organization’s needs
2024 Fees*
Standard Rate
$60 per hour plus mileage. The $60/hr includes preparation, driving, set- up/tear down and presentation time. The standard mileage rate is $.60 per mile. The zoo will use the following formula: $ 0.60 x miles = a. $60 x (1 hour prep + presentation + driving time + set-up + tear down) = b. Total charges a + b = c. The organization requesting the outreach program will be responsible for paying total amount c + tax where applicable.
Rate Exceptions:
| Group Requesting Program | Located in Watertown | Located in Codington County | Located Outside of Codington County (and Within 100 Miles of the Zoo) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nursing homes and assisted living facilities (special needs) | $60.00 for the first program; $20 for each additional program | $60.00 for the first program; $20 for each additional program | Standard hourly rate – see above |
| Educational facilities (schools, daycares, and preschools during normal operating hours) | $40.00 Flat | $60.00 Flat | Standard hourly rate – see above |
| Non-profit organizations and for-profit organizations | Standard hourly rate – see above | Standard hourly rate – see above | Standard hourly rate – see above |
Any outreach program that encompasses more than 8 total hours, including preparation, driving time, program time and set-up/tear-down, must compensate our zoo personnel with meals and lodging if appropriate.
Organizations will be billed after the event in order to ensure accuracy.
*Fees are subject to change without notice
