Reid Park Zoo Launches Browse Donation Program to Feed Animals with Community Yard Trimmings
The Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, Arizona, has initiated a 'browse donation program,' inviting the community to contribute approved tree trimmings and other vegetation to feed its animals. This initiative aims to repurpose yard waste, which would otherwise go to landfills, into food and enrichment for various animals, including elephants, giraffes, Baird’s tapirs, and blue duikers. 'Browse' refers to twigs, branches, shoots, and leaves from woody plants. The zoo has specific requirements for donations, accepting only certain plant species like acacia, bamboo, mulberry, pistache, Chilean mesquite, pepper trees, and willow. Donations must be free of thorns, toxic or unapproved plants, and chemicals. Freshness is also crucial, with leafy branches needing to be no more than two days old. Interested donors are asked to submit photos for species confirmation before arranging drop-off or pickup. 
