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Press Releases
New Study Shows Minnesota Zoo Generates Economic Impact of More Than $146 Million Apple Valley, MINN – January 10, 2013 – Operating the Minnesota Zoo provides an annual economic impact to the state of more than $146 million, according to a study conducted by the University of Minnesota. The impact is based on the Zoo’s record fiscal year 2012 attendance, annual operations activity and visitor spending in the area. The study shows a 28% increase since 2009, when the Zoo’s annual impact was estimated at $114 million. The study also notes that the Zoo supports 1,738 jobs and provides an additional $79.1 million in value-add to the economy. In addition, the anticipated “one-time” economic benefits generated by capital projects proposed over the next five years, as detailed in the Zoo’s new Master Plan, are estimated at more than $100 million. Says Minnesota Zoo Director/CEO Lee Ehmke: “The Zoo’s vital roles in conservation and education are well-known, but this study demonstrates that investment in the Zoo provides a powerful economic ‘ROI’ as well. With over 300,000 of our 1,370,000 guests last year visiting from outside of the Twin Cities metro, the Zoo truly serves as a resource for the entire state.” The study notes: “As a premier attraction in the Metro Area, the Zoo can be viewed as an ‘economic engine.’ Open 363 days a year, it employs full and part-time workers, purchases a wealth of supplies and services to keep operating, and generates further economic activity as it attracts and provides an on-site experience for all its visiting consumers.” Read the complete study here. The Minnesota Zoo is located in Apple Valley, just minutes south of Mall of America. For more information, call 952.431.9500 or visit mnzoo.org. The Minnesota Zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). |
