FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 5/21/26

FARGO, N.D. — The Red River Zoo will officially break ground on its new red panda exhibit, Red Panda Passage, on Friday, May 22 at 9:00 a.m. at the Red River Zoo, 4255 23rd Ave. S., Fargo, ND.

The project represents a major transformation of the zoo’s existing red panda habitat and reflects the zoo’s continued commitment to exceptional animal care, conservation, and guest experiences. Red pandas are among the zoo’s most beloved and recognizable species, and the Red River Zoo has earned national recognition for its work with them.

The Red River Zoo has specialized in the care and breeding of Chinese red pandas for more than 20 years and participates in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Species Survival Plan (SSP) for the species. Over the years, the zoo has become nationally recognized for its work with red pandas and its contributions to the long-term sustainability of the accredited zoo population. In recognition of this work, the zoo received the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ Edward H. Bean Award for Outstanding Achievement in Zoological Husbandry and Propagation in 2013.

Located near the carousel in the heart of the zoo, Red Panda Passage will feature expanded outdoor habitats, improved guest viewing opportunities, and new indoor spaces designed to support exceptional red panda care year-round. Large viewing windows will allow guests to observe the animals indoors and experience a unique look into their daily care.

Red Panda Passage was made possible through a transformational lead gift from Chord Energy, significant support from the North Dakota Destination Development Grant program, and a generous gift from an anonymous donor. Together, these investments helped move the project from vision to reality.

“We are especially grateful to Chord Energy for their leadership support of this project,” said Sally Mulvena, President & CEO of the Red River Zoo. “Their early investment helped build momentum for Red Panda Passage, allowing us to pursue additional partnerships and funding opportunities that ultimately brought the project to life.”

“The Red River Zoo is a nonprofit organization that depends on earned revenue, partnerships, and philanthropy to continue growing and improving experiences for both animals and guests,” said Mulvena. “Projects like Red Panda Passage are possible because people choose to support the zoo and the experiences it creates for our community.”

The groundbreaking ceremony will include brief remarks from community and project partners followed by the official ceremonial groundbreaking at the future exhibit site. Media, community leaders, zoo supporters, and the public are invited to attend. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m. The ceremony is included with regular zoo admission.