Edmonton (Alta.) - 1973 - Laurier Park Zoo_preliminary report (1973-06)

e_,,,ounonano Devaarder..i

IKA)KY M' LL:1

Edzaoattin

aurier park zoo edmonton parks and recreation

Emmen IJ prepared by frank gusp,arik design section

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CRITICAL PATH DIAGRAM ANALYSIS AND INFORMATION GATHERING PROCESS I Preamble II Discussion of Natural Site Factors A. Topography B. Vegetation and Hydrography C. Climatic Factors III Discussion of Cultural Factors A. Existing Land Use B. Vehicular and Pedestrian Circulation C. Utilities and Existing Buildings IV Discussion of Aesthetic Factors A. Natural Factors B. Spatial Pattern

PROGRAMME STATEMENT I Zoo Philosophies II Principles of Displaying Animals in Captivity III Public Considerations IV Some Possible Terms of Reference A. Animal Considerations B. Public Considerations V The Programme A. Objectives B. The Animal C. The Public D. Service and Maintenance

Laurier Park Zoo Table of Contents Page 2

E. Planting F. The Picnic Grounds

DETAIL DESIGN STAGES I Circulation II The Commissary III The Prairie-Dog Exhibit IV The Dutch Mill Organ House V The Grotto Area VI The Zebra - Donkey Paddock VII The Refreshment Area VIII The Entrance Area IX Signage, Lighting, and Utilities

IN CONCLUSION

BIBLIOGRAPHY

LAURIER PARK ZOO

CRITICAL PATH DIAGRAM

IDEA INCEPTION

SITE ANALYSIS

ANALYSIS AND INFORMATION ----PROGRAMME GATHERING PROCESS ANALYSIS

SELECTION AND DEFINITION OF GOALS AND OBJECTIVES. STATEMENT OF CONSTRAINTS. -(THE PROGRAMME STATEMENT)

DESIGN CONCEPTS

--' DESIGN SOLUTIONS

EVALUATION -

DETAIL DESIGN'

EVALUATION

DETAIL DESIGN IMPLEMENTATION Working drawings Construction Staging

EVALUATION

LAURIER PARK ZOO ANALYSIS AND INFORMATION GATHERING PROCESS

I PREAMBLE: As a point of departure, a large-scale master plan for the possible development of the Laurier Park Area as zoo and picnic grounds was deemed a necessity. Before such a master plan could be developed quite thoroughly, analysis of the site and affecting conditions casually related to the proposal had to be undertaken.

When more detailed design stages are undertaken, the analysis for each stage should followa similar sequence as the master plan analysis. However, greater and more detailed information is necessary at these stages. Analysis and infoLmation not required at the master plan, large-scale stage may be necessary at the detailed design levels.

At the large-scale level, analysis could be divided into three categories: Natural Site Factors, Cultural Factors and Aesthetic Factors.

An analysis of Natural Site Factors in this case consists of looking at the following conditions: 1.

Topography - topographic maps, slope analysis and landform characteristics.

2. Vegetation 3. Hydrography - streams, lakes, swamps, bogs and watershed drainage.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 2

4. Climatic Factors - solar orientation, summer and winter winds, precipitation and humidity.

An analysis of Cultural Factors involves such things as: 1. Existing land usage.

2. Vehicular and pedestrian circulation on or adjacent to the site.

3. Utilities.

4. Existing buildings.

Aesthetic quality is a rather difficult entity to determine.

However, certain elements can be classified as aesthetic Factors to aid in such a determination. These are: 1. Natural Features.

2. Spatial Pattern -views, spaces and sequences.

These will be of lesser importance at the master plan level, but become very Important instruments of design at the detailed level.

II DISCUSSION OF NATURAL SITE FACTORS A. TOPOGRAPHY: From a topographic survey nap average slope conditions were calculated. High points and low points were also noted. On this basis an analysis map was derived with the total Laurier Park area being divided on the basis of calculated percentage slopes. A slope of 0 - 6% was considered flat; from 7% - 20% the slope was considered relatively

Laurier Park Zoo Page 3

steep; and anything over 20% was considered a steep slope.

From this slope analysis, and from the typical sections taken through the site, it could be seen that the site is a series of slopes and flats, or steppes dropping from Laurier Drive to the North Saskatchewan River.

Based on the topographic information acquired through the analysis, some basic design implications could then be realized, without even having turned to programme requirements.

B. VEGETATION AND HYDROGRAPHY: From the topographic survey map,vegetated areas as well as watershed features were located on a Vegetation Analysis map. Certain features such as open areas, and the type of open area were also indicated on this map.

The vegetation of the whole area seemed to be of the aspen parkland variety — that is open grassy meadowintersticed with stands of deciduous elements consisting mainly of the aspen poplar group.

The drainage of the overall site was deemed very good except fora few low packets which perhaps contain different soil characteristics than the overall site. (This could be deter— mined to a greater extent at the detail design level-..)

Various design presumptions could be made solely from this analysis map just as was the case with the topographic analysis.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 4 For instance, a low, wet marshlike area could justify the exhibition of animals requiring such habitat. Requirements of such animals can then be established and the design of suitable spaces for these can occur.

C. CLIMATIC FACTORS: At this stage in the design process, climatic determinants seem to be an aid in developing certain aspects of the large-scale solution. For instance, the types of planting and location of planting with respect to windbreak-type elements for paths, congregating areas, and the like can be detelmined by knowing the wind quality. Similarily, orientation of buildings with respect to solar path can also be determined. (Climatic factors will play a much more major role in the detail design level as such elements as path orientation, building orientation, and planting become more specifically in need of location and finalization.)

Thus, on a Climatic Analysis map, elements to aid this design process were determined. The speed and direction of both summer and winter winds was noted as were temperatures, hours of sunshine and precipitation.

The site was also noted to ba a south-facing slope with the waLwest part of the site being the central aspects of the slope. This, then, gives rise to the fact that this central portion may be the most suitable for intensive development.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 5

III DISCUSSION OF CULTURAL FACTOR'S A. EXISTING LAND USE: An existing Land Use map was developed from the topographical survey map, from air photographs, and from existing drawings of previous zoo proposals. Such things as existing buildings, existing fences, and existing roads and pathways were indicated on this map. Existing activity areas were also located on this map.

This map then became a frame of reference and aided in deter— mining where development could exist, what could be redeveloped, and what had to remain untouched. It also gave an indication of where certain misfits could occur and what could be done to alleviate these. For instance, the possibility of some sort of buffer zone needed to exist between the existing resi— dential and proposed zoo development areas.

B. VEHICULAR AND PEDESTRIAN CIRCULATION: Movement systems were not indicated on a separate map as suchil An indication of vehicular and pedestrian routes can be deteLmined from the Existing Land Use map. Although the routes were not noted directly on plan, it can easily be seen where vehicular and pedestrian traffic occur from the roadway and walkway layout indicated.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 6

C. UTILITIES AND EXISTING BUILDINGS: Existing utilities were not indicated on any plan as location of such was not deemed necessary at the large scale planning level. However, at more detailed planning stages, the location of various utilities becomes a critical factor. (A plan of existing utilities can be seen on the topographic survey map.)

Existing buildings were plotted on the Existing Land Use map.

IV DISCUSSION OF AESTHETIC FACTORS A. NATURAL FEATURES: The area desired for zoo expansion exists on a south-facing, predominantly grassed series of slopes and flats. Aspen groves, the location of which can be seen on the Vegetation Analysis map, occur throughout the site. Three depressions of note, two of seemingly gravel base, occur on the major sloping part of the site. There are also two high points which occur on one of the ridges between slopes and flats. The depressions and ridges can be seen on the topographic analysis map.

B. SPATIAL PATTERN: The natural features can then be considered as points of departure to design. That is, the depressed areas can become water features or grotto-type display areas or some similar type of development. Establishing what the depressions

Laurier Park Zoo Page 7

can be leads to possibilities for establishing pedestrian movement patterns. Along with the varieties of slopes, these circulation patterns can help to establish varying experiences to the user.

Thus pedestrian and animal spaces can better establish themselves with varieties of sequences as well as views being set forth.

The existing vegetation along with additional planting, can also determine spaces and sequences of spaces and views. Specified viewpoints also can exist where high areas occur in the existing topography.

It can then be established that natural features contain an aesthetic quality that can lead to various design decisions which, when utilizing the inherent characteristics of the natural tocpptimum extent, foster the creation of interesting, creative and functional spatial pattern.

Having analyzed various factors of the problem at hand, it can be concluded that portions of each analysis do lend themselves to establishing design determinants. However, the deteLminants of design (which begin to have foLu implications) established by the site analysis are not singularily responsible for leading to solutions.

There also must be research and analysis into the needs and desires of the official and public sectors, to determine philosophies

Laurier Park Zoo Page 8

and terms of reference. Thus, programme statements can be pronounced and design solutions may proceed.

PROGRAMME STATEMENT

Before a specific statement regarding what possible forms a solution to the design of Laurier Park Zoo could take, a look at some philosophies extracted from readings, and some ideas for possible development had to be reviewed. Once this had been done, then, and only then,a valid statement on which design should be based, could be made.

A logical approach of this nature could aid in the assessment of the design. Thus, when problems occur in the design, they can be corrected on the basis of the programme developed.

Design problems may also show that the analysis had been faulty or incomplete. Thus, necessary changes may have to be made to the programme; changes which will aid, then, in the development of a better solution. In any case, the programme statement is an extremely important phase of the design development. In the following pages is a discussion of philosophies and terms of reference.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 9

ZOO PHILOSOPHIES - Wild animals today are considered to have cultural value. Therefore the zoo of today is a cultural institution that should fulfill four basic functions: i) A zoological garden (zoo) should be a place of light recreation. ii) A zoo should fit into the educational pattern of the community.

After all, it is a living museum of natural history and should be somehow integrated with the local school system. iii) A zoo is important also as in instrument of research: to aid man in doing a better job of keeping animals in captivity in the future, as well •as giving insight into human problems.

(Every disease process known in man occurs in animals in some form or other.) iv) A zoo is important in terms of conserving rare and endangered species of wildlife.

- There is also a hidden service provided by a zoo to the community in te ms of economics, as the zoo becomes a tourist attraction.

However, "animals in a zoo should not be misused as sources of income ... in the modern sense, a zoo must be a cultural institution serving primarily the needs of recreation, education, research, and nature conservation. All commercial aspects are admissible only 1 in so far as they are subordinate to and serve these aims."

1. Hediger, Heini: Man and Animal in the Zoo (Routeledge and Kegan Paul, London, England, 1970) pp. 18

Laurier Park Zoo Page 10

Principles of Displaying Animals in Captivity

There are five basic patterns of display arrangement among the zoos of the world.

1. Older zoos are laid out on a SYSTEMATIC basis which allows the easiest function of daily maintenance and animal husbandry.

In such a plan all similar groups of animals are kept in separate areas. This layout has the advantage of emphasizing the differences and similarities of related species, but this can also lead to monotony of presentation.

2. A variation on the Systematic theme is the ZOOGEOGRAPHIC display theme in which animals are arranged in groups according to their continent of, origin. This theme easily lends itself to the exhibition of related prey and predators. By the use of concealed moats, the illusion is created that such animals share the same exhibition area just as in the natural environment.

3. The zoogeographic theme has given rise to three other types of zoo layouts. One of these is the HABITAT zoo in which the layout is planned for areas to be broken up into exhibits of grassland, aquatic, polar, forest animals and so on.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 11

4. The POPULARITY type of'zoo tends to plan its layout on the basis of placing flamingoes near the entrance, the monkeys near the peanut kiosk and so on.

5. Since the type of environment is the principle consideration, the BEHAVIOURAL zoo is the most recent conception in zoo planning. This is based on the basic activities of the animals and breaks the displays into units comprising swimming, burrowing, flying, and arboreal animals.

Most zoos, to date, have been planned to include a selective combination of these five themes. In all cases, then, the concept of confinement for today's zoos seems to be that of the "openarea zoo" with animals confined in large spacious displays.

The ideal solution for a zoo is not to provide an exact imitation of the natural habitat, but rather to transpose the natural conditions of the wild, bearing in mind biological principles, into the artificial ones of the zoo. The specific requirements of each animal and its behaviour determine the design and standards of the environment for that animal. Since nothing is standard within a zoo, all special conditions must be carefully investigated.

Wild animals in a zoo should be looked after in such a way as to retain all their typical characteristics with the exception

Laurier Park Zoo Page 12

of the urge to escape. The problem here exists of how to ensure that the animal kept in captivity remains essentially a wild animal. In part, this problem is solved by the nature of the physical environment provided for the animals.

The size of containing spaces needs to be compatible with the propagative nature of the species However, the quality of the space, its form, and the nature of the surfaces exposed to the animal is as important,if not more so; as the quantity of space provided for the animal.

In some displays, animals may appear to be living together, but are actually separated by moats or concealed fences. However, many species are compatible and can be safely kept in the same enclosure. Where possible, animals should be kept in family groups.

Animals should receive prime consideration over buildings. In some cases, small, delicate animals must be housed in climate controlled buildings. Where buildings are necessary, they should satisfy the biological requirements of the animals contained within them. All animal houses should be well and properly ventilated (for public's sake.) In the case of birds, flight cages, either indoors or outdoors, are most suitable for display.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 13

These, again, should satisfy biological requirements. As far as aquatic animals are concerned, these are most effectively displayed with public viewing facilities both above and below the water surface.

Within each animal enclosure, the available space should be arranged to allow for certain fixed points. i.e A place to identify as home, places for resting, places for feeding (feeder receptacles should not be placed on or near walls or fences), bathing, grooming, defaecation, etc. In every case there should be an inside den or auxilliary paddock into which animals can be taken when the main paddock is out of commission for one reason or another. These open subdivisions become necessary for various zoo operations such as separation of young, removal of sick:or overly aggressive animals, and for releasing newly arrived animals or removing others for transfer. These areas should be allowed for at the planning stages.

Where possible, animals should be displayed so that they are not looked down upon. Unwholesome psychological connotations may arise and it may be disturbing for an animal to have potentially dangerous enemies at such an unnatural vantage point. It also encourages people to drop things, even if unintentionally.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 14

In a zoo, security - so animals don't escape and so humans and other outside animals don't enter in - is of utmost importance.

Should an animal escape from its pen it should not find itself completely free. That is, some foLm of other enclosure should be provided outside the pen. Finally, the entire zoo should be enclosed by a peripheral boundary or fence. The priority of security should be: visitor, staff, animal.

In displaying zoo animals, the type of substrate in the pen or enclosure is important for certain animals. For example, ungulates on soft grassy substrates have a tendancy to develop bad hooves. Where heavy ungulates are kept on a grassy substrate the meadow becomes unsightly, muddy during rains, and difficult to keep clean, with the possibility of parasites invading. It is only possible to keep heavy animals on grass where very large paddock areas are available.

With respect to a zoo collection, careful planning is definitely necessary. The collection shouldn't be a haphazard one, rather one confirmed to a certain pattern. However, monotony should be avoided - variety with regard to animal collections and presentation should be provided. Also certain specialties (transient displays) could be kept along side the basic stock.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 15

Geographical location, climate, vegetation, water supplies, access to food supplies, and historical considerations should aid in determining what belongs in a particular zoo.

Public Considerations

A zoo couldn't exist simply with installations for animals alone.

Zoo design must also cater to man. Since most people who visit zoos do so out of a genuine interest in animals and a healthy need for recreation, provision for this human element becomes a necessary part of a zoo. Public amenities such as paths, nbtices, labels, kiosks, lavatories, restaurants and the like need to be provided.

Adequate parking facilities also become a necessity.

Routes of pedestrian travel within the zoo need to be carefully planned. Perhaps there could be a choice of routes: 1) One taking in the entirety of the zoo.

2) One taking in only the major exhibits.

3) One taking in only the zoo highlights.

4) An information train.-

These routes should provide the public with differing viewpoints of the various exhibits so that the exhibits are viewed in their habitat from a variety of perspectives.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 16

Presentation of exhibits should be as unrestricted as possible, with the use of iron bars and mesh fencing being minimal. (As unobstructed as possible a view of the animals in their habitats should be provided to the public.) Herein lies a small conflict in that the public desires to see the animal active at all times while the animal desires rest on occasion. Similarly the animal may desire shelter while the public would wish it in the open, on display at all times. However, the public can be educated to accept these occurrences and thus minimuze such conflicts.

A part of the zoo should be set aside for public recreation and interaction.

A children's zoo should be instructive as well as entertaining.

Such a zoo should be arranged in such a fashion as to give the child, as well as the adult, an introduction to the animal kingdom. It should be designed in a style that the child can comprehend and appreciate, incorporating the principles of contact areas — areas set aside with tame and baby animals where children and adults can touch as well as see the animals.

There needs to be provision for zoo staff and service facilities (machinery needs to be installed as discreetly as possible) for without these a zoo could not function.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 17

Finally, and not in the least, an analysis of the site is necessary in terms of access, availability, natural beauty, adaptability of terrain, present requirements, as well as future needs and expansion possibilities.

2 "One should not aim at the average Or standard but at uniqueness."

SOME POSSIBLE TERMS OF REFERENCE

A. ANIMAL CONSIDERATIONS Arising from discussions, it was determined that North American animals, primarily Alberta fauna were desirable for exhibition in the zoo. The number of display areas was to be kept to a minimum. Storage paddocks and insulation areas were considered a necessity and the existing winter quarters were to remain.

A mention was made about trying to expound on the predator - prey relationships within the Alberta fauna.

Suggestions for animal displays in a first stage of development consisted of prairie dogs and wolves. The prairie dog display was suggested to be approximately 10 ft. x 15 ft. enclosed by a 1 1/2 ft. high wall that penetrated 3 feet into the ground, and was to be earth mounded inside the enclosure. The suggestion for display of wolves consisted of a flagstoned, tiered, grotto-

2 Ibid. pp. 202

Laurier Park Zoo Page 18

type area that was to include shelter and shade.

It was also suggested that enclosures for animals should consist of moat-type barriers where viewing is a requirement. All other enclosure containments should be of the fence variety. On the northern boundary, the fence should be below the crest of the bank.

B. PUBLIC CONSIDERATIONS The addition to the existing zoo was considered to be best. developed along the central spinal nail idea. Clustering of displays could then occur along either side of this mall. A recreative terminus feature was deemed advantageous at the west end of the proposed spinal mall. At the opposite end of this mall an entrance area containing infolmation and ticket-taking facilities was an obvious necessity.

Pedestrian routes were decided to closely follow the central mall with possible side routes to display areas. Pedestrian routes were to be connected to the existing Storyland Zoo. The widths of these pedestrian routes was felt to be maximum where viewing and gathering areas were expected to occur. As much landscaped area as possible needed to be introduced to make the walk through the zoo leisurely and natural.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 19

A proposal for a Dutch Mill which would house the existing organ of Storyland Valley Zoo was forwarded. The area surrounding this proposed structure was to include walks, benches and flower beds.

On the south boundary of the proposed zoo expansion, a proposal was put forward to have pedestrian and bicycle routes follow the periphery containing interpretation penetrations. These routes were also to have links with the picnic areas and River Valley Trail Systems.

The size of the existing Storyland Valley Zoo parking lot was suggested to be reduced and thus allow for picnic facilities expansion. The possibility arises to then introduce additional landscaped areas. There was no mention made of the ramifications of this reduction on the parking facilities for the trailer caravans using theexisting parking lot. It was assumed then, that another site for this facility had been chosen.

Because of the parking lot size reduction, the existing entrance to the picnic grounds had to become a separate entity. The existing park ring road was desired to be closed to vehicular traffic on the extreme west portion and on the south portion with parking facilities to be established at the new termini.

The closures were then to become bicycle paths as part of the overall city bicycle trail system.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 20

No mention was pronounced concerning the status of the existing Storyland Valley Zoo Stagecoach ride. Thusly, it was assumed that such an activity had no place in the new zoo expansion proposal.

THE PROGRAMME

Having analyzed the natural aspects of the Site and having considered a number of possible terms of reference, a programme which will aid the direction of design solutions can now be established.

A. OBJECTIVES The primary concern here was to design a zoological garden in as natural a setting as possible that would aid in fulfilling its role in education, recreation, research and conservation.

A secondary concern, not in isolation of the first, was to upgrade the existing picnic grounds area in such a manner that it could be better used and enjoyed by the public sector. The total development was to be known as Laurier Park Zoo.

B. THE ANIMAL The display of animals would be some combination of the five basic patterns of arrangement used by zoos today. For instance,

Laurier Park Zoo Page 21

on the northern sloped portion of the site, herds of similar families of animals could be allowed to roam in large paddock areas. (A type of SYSTEMATIC approach) In the flat areas where a central mall proposal has been discussed, the possibility exists to exhibit predator - prey relationships. (A type of Habitat approach.) In the southern portion of the zoo area where treed areas occur, and where the possibility for water features exist, animals could be exhibited in the HABITAT and BEHAVIOURAL zoo patterns.

The size and nature of the exhibit areas needs to be determined on the basis of the ecological, biological, and behavioural requirements of the animals to be contained within. That is, each space should resemble the natural habitat as closely as possible, allowing for the occurrence of fixed points.

Where public viewing of animals is to occur, barriers should be as unobtrusive as possible. Here, moats should be used as a means of containment. In all other cases, barriers can be of the fence nature (either partially screened or concealed entirely).

However, concealed moats can also be employed, (especially to exhibit predator - prey relationships.) The barriers, whatever form they take, must be able to provide security, both for the public and for the animal. The barriers should not be allowed

Laurier Park Zoo Page 22

to interfere with the public's seeing, hearing or smelling of the animals.

An area, close to veterinary facilities, should be designated where sick animals can be taken and cared for.

Within each exhibit area, mall auxilliary areas should be located. Here animals can be taken when the main area is out of use for some reason or other. These auxilliary areas become a necessity in order for various zoo operations to occur.

Permanent shelters can also be erected in these auxilliary areas for use by the animals, expecially in winter. This would do away with having to transfer animals from summer to winter quarters and vice-versa, an unsuitable and unnatural operation.

Thus, the zoo can be of year round use.

Where possible, exhibit areas should take advantage of the existing topography to aid in developing the naturalness of the site. That is, drepressed areas could become marshes to facilitate the exhibition of moose, for example. Rocky, gravelly areas could become natural grotto exhibit foLms.

C. THE PUBLIC The circulation pattern within the zoo should essentially be a loop system to optimize exhibit viewing. That is, while making

Laurier Park Zoo Page 23

one circulation, most of the features will have been viewed once without repeat. A choice should be offered by series of subloops so that variety in views and orientations can occur.

Major and minor routes of travel can possibly be established.

Routes of pedestrian travel should occur mainly on the flat portions of the site. Variety should be allowed to occur here also, so that advantage of topographic changes can be utilized to include contrasts, rythmns, and harmonies at differing points in the route. Paths should be located in such manner so that the enclosures are perceived either to the right or to the left in rythmical alternation. Since the paths will then be leading to different points, only one enclsoure at a time is observed.

Thus, the visitor will not drift aimlessly from exhibition to exhibition. "A walk through the zoo with its ever changing scenery, now arresting the eye, now concealing what lies ahead, is composed of elements, complete in themselves, which ultimately merge into a higher unity, thereby cultivating expectancy.it3

Pedestrian routes should be hard surfaced being 12 to 15 feet in minimal width and attaining a maximum width of 35 to 40 feet in width where viewing and congregating areas are desirable.

3 Modern Zoo Design - -article from "Recreation Canada" Vol. 30, March 1972.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 24

An entrance area containing ticket, info Illation and souvenir facilities should be established near the existing Children's Zoo entrance. This new entrance area should, through use of architecture paving details, seating and planting, become a unique, forceful identity element.

The parking lot should be reduced in size. It should allow for bus drop-off and bus parking areas, to facilitate zoo tours.

Public amenities such as direction and info illation aids, restrooms, restaurants and recreational facilities should be considered.

The architectural quality of these should be such that a homogeneous character is developed. This becomes a unifying element within the total complex.

A landscaped, public leisure area to act as a terminus feature at the western extremity of the zoo should be given consideration.

This should be a passive recreation entity harmonious with the total zoological garden context.

Within the existing Children t z Zoo framework, contact areas should be incorporated.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 25

D. SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

Paved pedestrian routes should be wide enough to accomodate service and maintenance vehicular circulation.

The large paddock areas should require only a minimum of maintenance.

Animal exhibit areas that require great amounts of care should be clustered within easy reach of each other to minimize maintenance.

Adequate storage should be prOvided for service and maintenance facilities. The storage areas should be flexible enough to allow for future expansion.

An area for food preparation needs to be designated. Public interaction in the animal feeding ritual should be considered as an interest generator.

Where machinery needs to be installed, it should be done as discreetly as possible.

E. PLANTING Vegetation is as significant to a zoo as the animals themselves.

Not only are plants an aid to creating the natural setting for animal exhibition, they allow the public a relaxing atmosphere.

Plants are also important indicators of soil conditions, microclimate, temperature, humidity, ventilation, lighting and the like.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 27

Thus, vegetation must be used in an intelligent manner. Since the natural system has been depleted to a great extent, vegetation, for the sake of vegetation, can be used here to restore the natural system. Heavy planting is necessary on the north slope of the site to effectively screen and separate the residential land use from the zoo.

Vegetation can be used as screening agents on the pathway system as well, to reduce crowds to negligible quantities. Vegetation can effectively accentuate the structure of the site. Where desirable, plant material can aid in producing contrasts to accentuate space effects and spatial units.

The selection of plant material for animal exhibit areas is symbollically dictated by the nature of the animals' original environment. Plants should be allowed to regenerate themselves in character with the natural landscape. (This should be allowed in all areas except those designated for intensive human usage.)

"The actual modelling of the ground inside and outside the enclosures, is a means of creating a spatial relationship throughout, which must correspond to the natural topography of the site. The individual areas are enhanced and, at the same time, harmoniously integrated, by Selective planting.

4. Modern Zoo Design Article from "Recreation Canada" Vol. 30, March 1972

Laurier Park Zoo Page 28

F. THE PICNIC GROUNDS There should be a reduction in the size of the existing zoo parking lot. This would lend itself to the abolishment of the existing picnic grounds entrance road and to the creation of further picnic facilities and landscaped areas. The entrance road should be relocated bearing in mind the possible connection to the Buena Vista Flats Sports Complex proposal.

The extreme west portion of the park road should be sealed off to vehicular traffic and thus establish walk-in picnic areas.

This road closure should effectively deter its former convenient use as a dragstrip.

The south portion of the ring road should be closed to deter the racing car element. The closure would allow for linear continuity within the park site as well as better activity relationships.

The resulting road closures necessitate the need for compensation of parking facilities. A new

circulation system has

to be devised. The possibility also exists for relocation of service and maintenance facilities.

The closed portions of the road could serve as bicycle paths in the proposed River Valley Bicycle Trail System.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 29

Provision should be made for location of a pedestrian route through the park that would serve to connect with the River Valley Trail System at the Quesnell Bridge and Buena Vista Flats locations.

A combination pedestrian - bicycle trail with connections to the park area, zoo area and trail systems should be provided for.

This trail should be located near the southern boundary of the zoo proposal to facilitate spot viewing and interpretation of zoo activity, thereby stimulating interest in the zoo.

A trail user orientation area could be located at the western extremity of the park area.

Viewing structures should be erected where topographical features permit activity of this nature.

This, then, was the programme that was followed as closely as possible to derive the large-scale master plan solution for the development of Laurier Park Zoo.

The programme itself may be faulty and incomplete. Some elements may have been omitted. (For instance, it was brought forward that an aquarium is lacking.) There is flexibility within this programme for changes, let there be no misunderstanding in that

Laurier Park Zoo Page 30

respect. But, the basic framework, on which decision-making and evaluations can be based, is very apparent.

DETAIL DESIGN STAGES

On the basis of the Master Plan solution developed for the zoo, planning and detailed design of various stages of development could now be undertaken.

A similar analysis-programme-solution approach was taken with respect to each stage in this preliminary development phase.

(This phase, which could possibly span the first five years of development, can be reviewed on "Laurier Park Zoo - Proposed Site Development", Sheet D4.) It must be noted that the solution presented for this phase is not absolute since many necessary items at the analysis level were lacking during design development.

(Such things as a detailed topographic surveys and committments concerning desired animal exhibits were lacking.) There is, however, an inherent flexibility within the solution for minor adjustments, which may be founded on political, economic, or purely design reasons.

I CIRCULATION Generally speaking, pedestrian circulation is of a very organic

Laurier Park Zoo Page 31

nature. This was intentionally contrived to compliment the nature of paths in the existing children's zoo complex.

The further from the existing zoo that the paths become, the more they begin to reflect the nature of the major zoo proposal.

Thus, the area for the first phases of development can be considered a transition area which effectively links the old with the new. Yet, the change is gradual, not abrupt, and therefore, not uncomfortable. Here in the transition zone, exhibits will appeal to the child and to the adult.

An attempt has been made at directing pedestrian traffic flow by path manipulation and use of plant material. For instance, the path from the entrance area has been made to flow easily and directly to the major exhibit area. This flow has not been broken by the penetration of another path due to the tight colonnade planting which aid the directional flow. The colonnade also serves to screen the major exhibit creating an expectancy for the user. Once the major exhibit comes into view, the path opens in funnel manner, with the planting also aiding to create the open space feeling.

At points of intersection of paths, earthwork, use of plant material and path manipulation all combine to unconsciously direct the user in a desired flow even though a choice of direction

Laurier Park Zoo Page 32

is available.

Where a different experience from walking occurs in the circulation system, a change in material is evident to emphasize the change. For example, brick paving is used wherever bench seating occurs.

Wherever the function is strictly oriented to human use, the circulation system changes from the free-flowing, natural to the rigid geometric. This is a symbolic contrast exemplifying the difference between the natural and man-made, as can be seen in the entrance and refreshemnt areas.

The use of different paving materials, as well as indicating changes in function, indicate the direction of traffic flow.

The traffic flow is indicated by the use of bricks in the paving pattern of the entrance area. The heavy use of brick at the gate areas also supports the functional change in the act of entrance or exit.

II THE COMMISSARY An area for animal food preparation designated as "Commissary", has been provided in proximity to the existing service area.

The exact nature of the structure with respect to size, and

Laurier Park Zoo Page 33

architectural quality is undetermined at this stage for reasons concerning a lack of pertinent information.

In the location chosen there is adequate space for storage facilities and expansion possibilities. The commissary is a future development stage coming once the major animal exhibits are in operation.

III THE PRAIRIE-DOG EXHIBIT This, along with the Dutch Mill Organ House, were designated for the premiere stage of expansion. The location of the prairie-dog exhibit was dictated, in part, by the existing area designated for expansion. The thought here was to encourage pedestrian flow into the existing corral area. Thus, the prairie-dog exhibit was located nearer these facilities. (The feeling also was that the Organ House would be a better transition element from the existing zoo. The location was also made bearing in mind future development possibilities, as well as the habitat characteristics of prairie-dogs.

A colony of black-tailed prairie-dogs was considered for the exhibit area since these are abundant in prairie regions and have been successfully kept in other zoological gardens. They are mainly herbivorous but insects and the flesh of dead prairie-

Laurier Park Zoo Page 34

dogs are also included in the diet. They hibernate only for short periods during cold weather.

The actual enclosure is oriented to receive maximum daily sunshine, with the exterior planting giving morning and evening shade. The area within the enclosure consists of a small moat— like area being mounded towards the rear (to insure adequate drainage). The area enclosed is in the neighbourhood of 3,000 square feet (the example discovered in the research is about 5,000 square feet,) part of which could be planted with prairie vegetation. There is a need to locate a watering facility within this area.

The area is enclosed with a concrete retaining wall 3 feet above ground, extending an average of 6 to 8 feet below ground so that the animals can burrow below frost line for winter hibernation periods. As an escape prevention wire mesh has to be placed at the base of the concrete walls.

Where viewing is desirable, a 3 1/2 foot fence railing has been substituted for concrete walls. (See Section S1)

IV THE DUTCH MILL ORGAN HOUSE The Dutch Mill was located as near as possible, within the

Laurier Park Zoo Page 35

designated first stage development area, to the existing children's zoo. This was done to facilitate the request for added seating and leisure area within the existing zoo.

The actual building was centrally located surrounded by bench seating and flower bed arrangements, being accessible from three sides. The building was oriented in such a manner as to face the main entrance from the existing zoo, as well as to maximize the effect of both summer and winter winds upon the windmill blades.

V THE GROTTO AREA The idea for such an area and the animals contained within stemmed from the request for the possibility of a wolf grotto structure.

Resulting was an island-like display based partially upon Habitat and Systematic display principles. That is, the area consists of forest animals and prairie animals being of the feline and canine family groupings.

The individual enclosures are separated by walls of rock material protruding from a central rock spine. (This was done to try to achieve a more natural open-area concept of containment)

Laurier Park Zoo Page 36

It also stemmed from the request to have rock tiers in the wolf enclosure. The central spine conceals a service corridor beneath which can be used to maintain the individual enclosures through means of dens (located near the central spine in each enclosure) and auxilliary dens (part of the service corridor).

The enclosures are separated from the public by means of moats, the depth and width of which are determined by the character— istics of the animals within each enclosure. As an added precaution, a hedge is planted beyond the moats before the 3 1/2 foot high viewing fence is reached. The hedge is also. a preventative measure to deter accidental (or otherwise) dropping of foreign material into the moats. The hedge also serves as a unifying element as it is proposed for all enclosures.

The orientation of the island with its enclosures is such that the wolf grotto proposal receives the greatest amount of shade received,full sunshine in the morning and early afternoon.

Similarily, the canine group of enclosures is located on the northern half of the rock spine so that optimum shade conditions can be realized. The feline exhibits are on the southern portion of the rock spine to receive the greatest amount of daily sunshine, which is more in tune with the feline temperment.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 37

Each enclosure within the island has been planted with vegetation depicting the natural ecological zone of the particular animal.

Each enclosure has also been provided with a spacious den area in which the animal has the opportunity to burrow. In the case of the feline displays, climbing trees have been located in central positions in the enclosures. As well, there needs to be the opportunity for drinking water in each enclosure.

The predator - prey relationship was not exploited in the grotto display. It was felt that this natural requirement could be better illustrated by using larger animals on a larger paddock area basis. (The flexibility of the master plan allows for such occurence). Perhaps, the, the wolf and cougar may have to be relocated since the major prey of this wolf species is bison, deer, caribou and moose, while the major prey of cougars is deer, wapiti, antelope and mountain sheep. During the summer the timber wolf chooses more modest game such as mice, voles, hares, and birds as well as roots and berries. The cougar also hunts birds, mice, ground squirrels and hares to a marked degree!)

The prey needs more space than what the grotto area gives the predators. If the cougar and wolf are removed, then other animals from similar habitat locations could easily be substituted.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 38

If the desire to express the predator-prey relationship exists for this particular development area, using the predators already indicated, it can still quite easily be accomodated.

Perhaps these smaller predators and their even smaller prey could very well suit the nature of a transition element from the children's zoo to the major zoo. (The size factor of the animals and-enclosure space requirements to provide transition was another factor in selecting these particular animals for the grotto area.) There is inherent flexibility within the design for such possible changes to occur, but the economics (both in initial cost and later maintenance cost) of providing for predator - prey relationships at such small scale may deter the feasibility for such changes in this area.

The feasibility for establishing alternative uses for the grotto area, within the confines deteLmined.by the path:layout, most " certainly exists. For instance, the area.CoditrSeCome an island for the exhibition of polar bears. Polar bears are a popular exhibit in other zoos and would most certainly be so here.

However, a polar bear exhibit would be out of context with the philosophy established for this particular exhibition area and would not provide the necessary transition element. There has been, however, an area more suited to the exhibition of bears in another location within the master plan concept.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 39

The flexibility of the area denoted as Grotto in this development stage is readily apparent. The area will remain so until a list of animals, their environmental characteristecs and the means desired for their display is prepared. Only then can a concrete solution be realized.

VI THE ZEBRA - DONKEY PADDOCK Because of the proposed development many existing corral areas were removed. The area for development of the Dutch Mill and prairie-dog display is the existing exhibition area for zebras, burros and donkeys. This redevelopment necessitated the location of a new exhibition area for these animals.

A location was chosen to the southeast of the grotto area, such

that a maximum of daily sunshine would be received. Here, the grassland exhibit would be an extension of the prairie exhibits of the grotto and prairie-dog areas, and therefore be in context.

A small moated area leading to a grassy plain has been developed.

The plain has been planted with large shade trees to simulate the zebra environment. On the other side of the moat the unifying hedge and viewing fence are apparent as in all other proposed exhibit areas.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 40

A shed-like structure has also been located to provide permanent year-round shelter for the animals. It has been oriented in such a manner, aided by plant material location, as to try to minimize climatic effects.

VII THE REFRESHMENT AREA Because, in the proposed development, existing concession stands were removed, and because of a public need for such amenities, a refreshment area became necessary. It was located such that it could serve at either the beginning or termination of a journey through the major zoo.

To emphasize the change in function, this whole area was lowered in relation to the existing site.

The change is abrupt by the use of stairs on the southern portion of the area. On the northern portion, a sloped path is used to indicate a gradual change as the area becomes in closer proximity to animal exhibits.

The contrast between the natural and man-made environments is further illustrated with the use' ofhard surfaces and angular forms..

The lowering, combined with the use of mounding and plant material,

Laurier Park Zoo Page 41

also enabled visual and auditory screening of the area.

Orientation allows the majority of the area to receive sunshine for a large part of the day with planting being primarily a definitive element of the space.

Numerous seating and waste disposal units have been positioned in the area to provide for eating and relaxing functions. The actual concession building can be allowed to serve both exterior and interior functions and can include interior seating facilities.

The actual size and architectural nature of this building and the rest room building has yet to be finalized.

VIII THE ENTRANCE AREA The entrance area is the direct result of social and psychological determinants. People like to gather, meet others, and have something to identify with.

The existing concrete entrance walk has been expanded to more easily accomodate the expected influx of visitors when the major zoo reaches completion. The brick and concrete paving pattern has been utilized in such a manner as to express the flow of pedestrian movement, right from the bus drop-off area, through the entrance and exit gates and up to the two minor entrances.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 42

The paving pattern has made the user aware of the directional and functional changes occurring in the entrance complex.

To accomodate the bicycle user, a bicycle parking area was integrated into the entrance area.

There are ticket, information, and souvenir facilities in this area. Once the tickets are purchased the visitor passes through the entrance gate. From this point a slat-type board fence acts as a directional aid to bring the visitor to the information side of the souvenir -• information building. The fence also serves as a physical, but not visual (because of the slats), barrier between the entrance and exit functions.

The souvenir - information facility has been designated as such, combining both functions in the one structure. The information facilities are oriented towards the entrance side, while the souvenir facilities are directed towards the exit function.

The architectural quality of the building and the ticket facility should be congruent with that of the refreshment area structures.

Having obtained infolmation, the visitor is now allowed a choice of travel routes. Still in the entrance area, the visitor now can choose the option of whether to visit the major zoo or the children's zoo first.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 43

Located in the entrance area is a circular seating area containing a rock garden facility. This element aids to funnel traffic flow around it as well as providing ample relaxation for the zoo user.

Further seating and waste disposal facilities, along with two exit gates are also included as integral parts of the entrance area.

IX SIGNAGE, LIGHTING, AND UTILITIES Since signagewas not included in the programme requirements, it was not included on any of the plans. However, it is of great importance and should receive consideration.

Signage should be an important factor as an alement used to provide unity throughout the zoo. For instance, directional signs are of one character, information signs of another character and so on. The signage should, however, retain a uniform quality throughout.

Signage in conjunction with displays, should be located such that it does not interfere with the viewing of the exhibit and yet provides necessary information about the exhibit. These signs should contain infolmational matter concerning the range of the animal in North America and specifically in Alberta, the habitat characteristics of the animal, and descriptive information about the animal.

Laurier Park Zoo Page 44

Signage related to directional aids should contain information about where to locate displays and should be placed wherever junctions in pathway systems occur.

Outdoor lighting to highlight exhibits and provide pathway illumination, as well as other utilities considerations have to be considered and integrated into the design as the design reaches finalization.

IN CONCLUSION

Inherent to both the master plan and the preliminary detail design stage is the fact that both, are flexible enough_ to allow for change.

However, the solutions presented in both cases were spawned from a valid process. Thus, criticiam of the solutions should not be based on one's own whims, but on the basis of the process here presented. If the process is lacking, then the criticism will bear this out and appropriate changes can be made. The resulting changes to any point in the process will then necessitate change in the solutions. This is a sufficient, sound approach.

The process can stimulate further ideas which then must be

Laurier Park Zoo Page 45

incorporated into the existing process as additional programme.

These ideas may well spark totally new programmes. Whatever the case, solutions can only be derived from concrete programme statements.

Since no such programme Was available at the Outset, one was developed on the basis of research combined with various thoughts of many on what a zoo might be The solutions presented are the result of decisions founded on this programme. Flexibility to allow for intelligent change is their inherent asset.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

1. Calgary Zoological Society. Calgary Zoo Guide.

2. Crandall, Lee S. A Zoo Man's Notebook, (University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois) 1966.

3. Crandall, Lee S. The Management of Wild Mammals in Captivity, (University of Chicago Press, Chicago, Illinois) 1971.

4. Daly, Leo A., Planning, Architecture, Engineering. Henry Doorly Zoo, Omaha. 1964.

5. Duplaix - Hall, Nicole and Lucas, Joseph. International Zoo Yearbook: Volume 12, (Zoological Society of London) 1972.

6. Hancocks, David. Animals and Architecture, (Praeger Publishers Incorporated, New New York) 1971.

7. Hediger, Heini. Man and Animal in the Zoo, (Routeledge and Kegan Paul, London, England) 1970.

8. Hoffmeister, Donald F. Zoo Animals , (Golden Press, New York, New York) 1967.

9. Recreation Canada, Volume No. 30, March 1972.

"Modern Zoo Design" pp. 7 - 13.

"Metro Toronto Zoo - A zoo for the Seventies and Onwards" pp. 16 - 27.

10. Soper, Dr. J. Dewey. The Mammals of Alberta, (Hamly Press Limited, Edmonton, Alberta) 1964.