![]() ![]() ![]() Half of the property’s 440 acres comprises the North American drive through, and the other half houses the breeding, research and conservation facilities for the exotic species housed at the Henry Doorly Zoo. But as we started developing the idea and trying to come up with a plan for the park, we realized that it would make a nice drive-through facility, and an opportunity to showcase native and North American animals.” “It was just going to be a research and conservation support facility for the Omaha Zoo. “We actually didn’t initially intend to open the park up to the public,” said Gary. Gary Pettit, who has been involved with the Henry Doorly Zoo for more than 30 years, was one of the first staff members to become involved in the conservation park. The park opened to the public in June of 1998, but it was in the works several years beforehand. Simmons Conservation Park and Wildlife Safari is actually owned by Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium. The park is unlike normal zoos in the respect that it offers the fabulous opportunity to take a drive-through tour or witness animal demonstrations - and it is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year! To honor the occasion, we spoke to Gary Pettit, the park’s superintendent, to get the full scoop. Located just 30 minutes from the heart of Omaha, the park features more than 350 animals and 53 species from all over the world, including a large selection of species native to North America. Simmons Conservation Park & Wildlife Safari. When looking to connect with Nebraska’s wild side, there’s no better place to go than the Lee G. Even in the developed areas, it seems as if there is always something left to discover! In fact, we are known for our vast prairies, spectacular sunsets and varied wildlife. There’s more to Nebraska than high-quality steaks and Cornhusker football. ![]()
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