Independent inquiry finds no evidence of discrimination at Madison's Vilas Zoo

Improving the zoo

10 recommendations to improve the Henry Vilas Zoo

• Redo the zoo’s organizational chart. Restructure the zoo’s chain of command to reflect its massive growth in the past few years.

• Get input on key decisions. Zookeepers and veterinarian techs are the most knowledgeable about the animals in their care and a team approach that properly values this knowledge is necessary. 

• Eliminate claims of favoritism with “just cause” process. A “just cause” system for corrective action seeks to determine why a mistake was made and how to avoid it in the future instead of punishing the person immediately.

• Deal with limited resources. Address problems caused by outdated buildings and the zoo’s overall limited resources. Resource issues must be addressed or difficult decisions will need to be made about the welfare of animals. Either a nonprofit arm of the zoo should be set up to raise funds or the county should prepare to increase the zoo’s budget significantly.

• UW veterinary care and reporting animal welfare. If possible, expand the zoo’s contract with the University of Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine and implement a system for reporting animal welfare concerns. 

• Standardize processes. Develop a zoo policy and procedure manual with a clear vision and mission statement.

• Security. Possible improvements include a dedicated security person or more on staff during the day; better lighting in the parking lots and more security at night; security cameras.

• Improve communication about maintenance. A computerized system to prioritize tasks may be helpful, and if there's an urgent need for maintenance, a system to communicate that to maintenance.

• Training and support for employees. Do the training proposed for all staff in the zoo's Workplace Plan. Other moves include coping techniques to help people be a better manager and employee; resources for employees dealing with difficult issues, including the deaths of animals in their care; and a session on available programs.

• Opportunities for advancement and growth. Employees should be encouraged to participate in conferences, seminars and other opportunities, and developing expertise in specific areas.