Mesker Park Zoo Director Stepping Down

Dan McGinn took over as interim director of the Mesker Park Zoo at what was an all time low point for Indianas oldest zoo. Plagued by scandal and having lost its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Mesker Park was in need of change. "It had some rough times and I came in at a time when change was in the air," McGinn said humbly of his efforts to reform and remake the zoo. "My timing is the only thing thats fortunate," he added. McGinn has been praised by politicians and zoo patrons alike for regaining AZA accreditation, and for creating a new, forward looking attitude at the zoo. He credits support from the community, the zoo board, volunteers and staff for doing those things. Whatever the impetus, Mesker Park is poised to take center stage in the world of zoos this summer. McGinns biggest project, Amazonia, is set to open then. The $11.4 million enclosed rain forest exhibit will feature a diverse array of wildlife and plants. McGinn thinks it could draw enough gate to the zoo to help it go from 30% self sufficient to 50% self sufficient. McGinns vision of the zoo: a place where "eventually we can pay for ourselves without one dime of tax revenue." Dan McGinn will stay at his post through the opening of Amazonia, but plans to retire August 14th. No successor has been named yet, and the job has been posted with the AZA. McGinn hopes to have his replacement lined up as soon as possible, so he can share ideas. He also says hell stay involved with Mesker Park as a volunteer, because he loves the place and the people there. "The zoo belongs to the community," he said, "theyve come together to bring us to where we are today, and Im very proud to be a part."