A Letter From Our President/CEO & Chairman of the Board

This past year has been one of unparalleled success for The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. Attendance has reached an all-time high and has doubled in the last few years. The opening of the new spectacular Rhino Savanna may have something to do with this success. Jaali and Nia, our two black rhinos, have been big hits with our guests. They help us tell the story of why rhino conservation is important and how each of us can play a role in stopping the poaching.

The Black Mambas Anti-Poaching Unit, which we support through our Community Conservation Initiative, was recognized by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) with a Highly Commended International Ranger Award. The Mambas, an all-female anti-poaching patrol, use unarmed patrolling, socio-economic development efforts, food distribution, and educational outreach to make a difference for their community and the rhinos they protect in the Balule Nature Reserve in South Africa.

This year has seen the return of school field trips as school districts returned to in-person learning. For many area youth, a visit to The Living Desert might be their only opportunity to encounter desert wildlife and to learn about the importance of protecting the plants and animals that call deserts home.

The Living Desert is fortunate to have a first-class team of staff and volunteers who are committed to our mission of desert preservation, education, and appreciation. Each day, they work tirelessly to

ensure that we give every guest the Best Day Ever encounter with our animals, gardens, and more. No matter the temperature, the team is out there every day working to make the Park a pleasurable and welcoming experience.

Looking forward, architectural design and engineering is underway for our next Park improvement. Scheduled to open in the fall of 2024, our new Marketplace/Cafe, including a restaurant with seating for 150 guests, will overlook our famous Bighorn Mountain. A new splash pad for kids—and adults who dare—to cool down on our sultry summer, and sometimes even winter days, will be a big hit. And, our highly anticipated Lion Ridge habitat, welcoming a pride of African lions looking into the Connie and Bob Lurie 500-seat Event Center, is scheduled to open in the fall of 2025.

We are passionate about two things at The Living Desert: desert animal conservation and environmental education. However, it takes support from the community to help us achieve these goals. Thankfully, you—our friends, supporters, and members here in the Coachella Valley and beyond—have helped us accomplish so much. We appreciate your trust in our organization and look forward to seeing you around the Park.

Thank you for making a difference!

Allen Monroe, President/CEO

Bill Appel, Chairman of the Board