The National Zoo will undergo intense modifications, replacing several animal facilities in accordance with the Asia Trail project.
The zoo will initiate ground clearing on April 28, said Peper Long of public affairs at the zoo.
The Smithsonian Institution is responsible for conducting the repairs mentioned in its Environmental Assessment, with the National Capital Planning Commission acting as the cooperating agency. The project is expected to be completed in four years.
"The 20-acre Asia Trail project is the first component of the National Zoo's ongoing renewal plan to reorganize and rebuild the Zoo," stated the assessment.
The assessment was composed in compliance with Council of Environmental Quality standards and the National Environmental Policy Act.
In line with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, the assessment considers how the project will impact the environment and historic resources. Utilities such as water and sewer systems would be improved due to "age and capacity issues," according to the Smithsonian Web site.
The project calls for renovations as well as additions to the Asian-themed animal exhibits along a newly designed pathway. The zoo will further organize animals by their geographic location.
The project is divided into two phases focusing on layout and grouping of the Asian-themed animals to designated areas.
Included in Phase I of the project is the construction of new sloth bear yards and new exhibits for clouded leopards, Japanese giant salamanders, fishing cats and giant and red pandas. Phase II will include Asian elephant, greater one-horned rhinoceros and Asian small-clawed otter exhibits.
In recent years the zoo has experienced a series of animal deaths stemming from errors in management to inadequate housing conditions for the animals, according to the American Zoo and Aquarium Association. Last January two red pandas died after ingesting rat poison planted in their yard to eliminate rodent problems.
A dozen other incidents like the death of a zebra as a result of malnourishment, have occurred.
The association denied the renewal of the zoo's accreditation last March, due to concerns including structural deterioration.
The zoo's "visitation is low at the exhibits with failing exhibit structures and infrastructure," said the environmental assessment. This is due to the need of handicapped-compliant pathways for pedestrians.
With the imposed changes, the zoo plans to create a healthier environment and promote reproduction among the animals, further offering visitors a well-rounded educational experience.
