Zoo to break ground on The Darnall W. & Susan F. Boyd Aquarium & Reptile Conservation Center
August 31, 2021
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden and The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation will host a groundbreaking at the Zoo on Tuesday, Sept 14 to kick off an exciting new venture that will advance the Zoo’s mission to protect and conserve endangered species in the state and beyond.
The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Aquarium and Reptile Conservation Center is expected to open in the spring/summer of 2022. The innovative development project will create a myriad of stunning habitats offering captivating views of some of the world’s most precious and endangered wildlife and bring to the forefront animal care and conservation efforts taking place behind-the-scenes at the Zoo every day.
A highlight of the transformation will showcase Riverbanks’ critical role in many regional conservation efforts. The opening of a coral lab will allow guests to see first-hand the behind the scenes work Riverbanks is doing in conjunction with the Florida Reef Tract Rescue Project. Zoo aquarists have been caring for nearly 40 coral colonies that were rescued off the Florida coast in 2019 following the outbreak of an unidentified disease.
Additionally, the renovations will bring to light a variety of terrestrial conservation partnerships such as Riverbanks’ work with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources to protect rare and endangered reptiles and amphibians in the state.
About Riverbanks Zoo and Garden
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is home to more than 2,000 magnificent and fascinating animals and one of America’s best public gardens. The Zoo opened on April 25, 1974, and for nearly five decades, has connected individuals, families, and school children with the natural world. Riverbanks is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is recognized as a global leader in animal care and welfare, education, recreation, science, and wildlife conservation. It is the mission of the Zoo and Garden to create meaningful connections and inspire actions that will have a lasting impact on conservation. For more information, visit www.riverbanks.org.
About The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation
The Darnall W. and Susan F. Boyd Foundation promotes and supports projects of specific interest to the Boyd Family, such as education, beautification, and the creation of outdoor recreational opportunities, as well as enhancements to benefit the quality of life for citizens of Columbia and the Midlands. The Boyd Foundation has made possible a variety of projects in the Midlands, including Boyd Plaza at Columbia Museum of Art, renovations of facilities at Riverbanks Zoo, Boyd Island on the Saluda Riverwalk, South Carolina Waterfowl Association facilities, and many projects and facilities at Historic Columbia.
