Zoo Governance

The Saint Louis Zoo is legally classified as a tax-supported political subdistrict of the State of Missouri. Essentially, the Zoo is a government agency and has restrictions on how it raises and spends money. The Zoo also has a nonprofit partner, the Saint Louis Zoo Association, dedicated to raising funds in support of the Zoo's mission.

Metropolitan Zoological Park and Museum District

The Zoo Museum District (ZMD) to represents the taxpayers of the District in the careful oversight of the financial affairs of the Subdistricts: Missouri Botanical Garden, Missouri History Museum, Saint Louis Art Museum, Saint Louis Science Center, and Saint Louis Zoo.

The ZMD

Saint Louis Zoological Park Subdistrict Commission

The Missouri State Legislature established the Zoo Subdistrict Commission, a subdistrict of the ZMD, as the Zoo's governing authority. Five members of the Commission reside in the City and five members reside in the County. The Commission has the fiduciary and management responsibility for the well-being of the Zoo.

The Commission

Saint Louis Zoo Association

The Association is a private nonprofit organization whose volunteer board is made up of business and community leaders. They work with the Zoo to provide leadership for fundraising, and they support conservation education, programming, facilities, government relations and special events.

The Association Board

Saint Louis Zoo Young Professionals Advisory Board

The Zoo Young Professionals Advisory Board is a group of professionals in their 20s and 30s dedicated to the continued success of the Saint Louis Zoo. Members have the unique opportunity of networking among peers and becoming involved with the Zoo at a deeper level. They work closely with Zoo staff on various initiatives, serving as liaisons of committees including Animal Care & Conservation, Education, Volunteers, and Special Events and supporting the Zoo’s mission of connecting the community to wildlife.

Zoo Young Professionals Advisory Board