Zoo Contact: Kyle Shepherd
kyle.shepherd@louisvilleky.gov
(O) 502-238-5331 (C) 502-744-5639
The Louisville Zoo will celebrate World Water Week with a special event on August 25, 2024, in partnership with WaterStep and Louisville Water Company. This one-day celebration will focus on access to safe, clean water while featuring unique enrichment activities for the Zoo’s water-loving pinnipeds and bears at Glacier Run.
Visitors are invited to watch as the animals engage with special WaterBalls donated by WaterStep. WaterStep develops technology that the organization sends to the field, including WaterBalls similar to those donated to the animals, that help women and girls carry water long distances without balancing jugs on their heads. These WaterBalls that have been used for evaluation have been given to animals to enjoy because they can’t be used in the field. WaterStep, headquartered in Louisville, is a global leader in safe water technology.
“We are delighted to partner once again with WaterStep and the Louisville Water Company for this special animal enrichment activity during World Water Week,” said Louisville Zoo Director Dan Maloney. “This celebration highlights the vital role that clean water plays for both people and wildlife.”
The event will include interactive activities at Glacier Run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., emphasizing the importance of clean water. Representatives from WaterStep and Louisville Water will be on hand to engage with visitors and provide educational insights. In 2018, Louisville Water provided eight new hydration stations to the Louisville Zoo, encouraging guests to bring re-usable water bottles to “drink, fill, repeat” and prevent disposable plastic water bottles from going to landfills.
“WaterStep has been a global leader in safe water technology and innovation for 30 years right here in Louisville,” said Mark Hogg, WaterStep founder and CEO. “We develop and manufacture equipment that has brought safe water and disinfectant to more than 14 million people in over 70 countries. We’re excited to partner with the Louisville Zoo and the Louisville Water Company to kick off World Water Week 2024, which focuses on water for a peaceful and sustainable future.”
“At Louisville Water Company our mission is public health, and we believe everyone, no matter where they live should have access to safe drinking water. We know how fortunate we are to have the Ohio River as the source for our drinking water but know that everyone isn’t as lucky. Water is life and we are committed to doing our part to support people in our community and around the world,” added Channa Newman, Louisville Water Company Community Relations Manager.
Scheduled animal interactions include the seals and sea lions at 10:30 a.m., followed by the polar bear at 11:15 a.m. during their regular training sessions. For a complete schedule of events, visit louisvillezoo.org/waterday.
Zoo Hours
The Zoo is open daily year-round. Summer hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (stay until 6 p.m.) through Sept. 22, 2024. The Zoo will close early on Saturday, August 24 (10 a.m. – 2 p.m., exit by 3 p.m.) for Brew at the Zoo with Wine and Food, Too! The Zoo is open year-round except on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Visit louisvillezoo.org for more information.
About the Louisville Zoo
The Louisville Zoo, the State Zoo of Kentucky, is the top non-profit paid attraction in the state. The Zoo is dedicated to bettering the bond between people and our planet by providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for visitors, and leadership in scientific research and conservation education. The Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).
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