Forestry Farm Park and Zoo
The Forestry Farm Park and Zoo is a forested park and zoo located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Originally established as a Dominion Forest Nursery Station, it played a significant role in growing and distributing millions of trees across the prairie provinces before transitioning into a city park and zoo after renovations. Today, it serves as a vital green space and a center for wildlife education and conservation.
Key Facts
- ›Established as the Dominion Forest Nursery Station, with the park and zoo opening in 1972 after renovations.
- ›The park was designated a National Historic Site of Canada.
- ›The zoo is accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a World Association of Zoos and Aquariums Institution Member.
- ›The zoo houses over 80 species of animals, including critically endangered Axolotls and endangered Ring-tailed Lemurs.
- ›It is home to the annual Enchanted Forest Holiday Light Display, which raises funds for local foundations.
Affinity Learning Centre, Small Mammal House, Prairie Butterfly House, Demonstration Forest
Grizzly Bears, Axolotl, Ring-Tailed Lemur, Plains Zebras
- Conservation Research and Education
- National Ecological Monitoring plan initiative on migratory bird habitats and breeding
- Sutherland Migratory Bird Sanctuary
About Forestry Farm Park and Zoo
The Forestry Farm Park and Zoo is a significant zoological and recreational facility located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Its origins trace back to the Dominion Forest Nursery Station, established to grow and distribute millions of trees across the prairie provinces between 1913 and 1966. Following the closure of the nursery, a portion was redeveloped into a city park. After undergoing renovations, the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo officially opened its doors on September 1, 1972.
Historical Significance and Development
The site holds national historical importance, designated a National Historic Site of Canada, reflecting its past role in forestry and agriculture. The park itself encompasses various areas, including the historical Forestry Farm House, a fishing pond, playgrounds, and gardens. Its development has seen it become increasingly integrated into Saskatoon's urban landscape, serving as a crucial part of the region's greenbelt.
The Zoo and Its Inhabitants
The zoo, a key feature of the park, is accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. It houses over 80 species of animals, with a notable focus on conservation. Among its residents are two male grizzly bears, Koda and Mistaya, and species listed as critically endangered and endangered on the IUCN Red List, such as the Axolotl and Ring-tailed Lemur, respectively. The zoo has also been involved in the care of seized plains zebras.
Conservation and Community Engagement
Forestry Farm Park and Zoo is committed to wildlife conservation and education. It participates in research programs, including the monitoring of migratory bird habitats, and is part of the Sutherland Migratory Bird Sanctuary. The park is also known for its annual Enchanted Forest Holiday Light Display, a popular winter event that generates funds for local charitable foundations, demonstrating its strong connection to the Saskatoon community.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the original purpose of the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo site?
The site was originally established as the Dominion Forest Nursery Station. Between 1913 and 1966, it was responsible for growing and shipping 147 million trees across the northern prairie provinces to assist farmers.
When did the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo officially open?
Following renovations to the Sutherland Forest Nursery Station, the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo was opened on September 1, 1972.
What are some of the notable animals at the zoo?
The zoo houses two male grizzly bears named Koda and Mistaya. As of February 2026, it also features critically endangered Axolotls and endangered Ring-tailed Lemurs.
Does the Forestry Farm Park and Zoo have any special events?
Yes, the park is home to the Enchanted Forest Holiday Light Display each winter, which raises funds for the Saskatoon Zoo Foundation and the Saskatoon City Hospital Foundation. The zoo also features a Kinsmen Express Zoo Train offering guided tours.
What conservation efforts are undertaken at the zoo?
The zoo engages in conservation research and education with its collection. It also hosts autonomous recording units for Environment and Climate Change Canada's National Ecological Monitoring plan and is part of the Sutherland Migratory Bird Sanctuary.
What accreditations does the zoo hold?
The zoo is accredited by the Canadian Association of Zoos and Aquariums and became an Institution Member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 2025. It was also the first zoo in Saskatchewan to gain sensory-safe certification.
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