ZooMontana Earns Elite Reaccreditation and Names Jessica Hart as Permanent CEO

Big news from Billings’ favorite wildlife hangout. According to a press release today (10/7), ZooMontana has officially earned reaccreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the gold standard of the zoo world.

And in semi-related news, the zoo announced that Jessica Hart is its new permanent President and CEO, taking over for Jeff Ewalt, who accepted a new position out of state earlier this year. 

The difference between a roadside animal attraction and a legitimate zoo.

If you’re not familiar with AZA accreditation, it’s kind of a big deal. Fewer than 10% of animal facilities nationwide meet the association’s rigorous standards for animal care, conservation, and education. ZooMontana now continues to hold that elite status, joining just 240 accredited institutions across the country.

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This accomplishment doesn’t come easy. The process involves inspections, documentation, and attention to detail. The achievement is a testament to the staff and volunteers who keep the place running and ensure the animals get top-notch care.

A new era for ZooMontana?

Hart, who joined ZooMontana in 2020 and has served as interim CEO since February, guided the zoo through the reaccreditation process and will now officially lead it into what she calls “a dynamic new era.” With plans underway for a dedicated Animal Health Center, the first of its kind at ZooMontana, her leadership arrives at a pivotal time.

“ZooMontana has earned and sustained its place among the nation’s elite animal facilities,” Hart said. “This achievement validates the passion and hard work of every staff member and volunteer.”

The Zoo’s Board of Directors praised Hart’s leadership and commitment, saying her permanent appointment was “the clear choice.”

ZooMontana is the only zoo in the state.

ZooMontana remains Montana’s only zoological and botanical park, located at 2100 S. Shiloh Road in Billings. The gates open daily at 10 a.m., and the bears, wolves, bison, wolverines, tigers, and peacocks are ready to show off their accredited digs.

My family just visited ZooMontana again a couple of weeks ago, and it's beautiful this time of year. The animals were all fairly active, the temps were perfect, and the leaves were popping.