Cooperative Agreement AP26AC000000C001

Under a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS), Zoological Disaster Response, Rescue, and Recovery (ZDR3) received $509,208 in federal funding (Award Date: September 1, 2026; Ultimate Completion Date: August 31, 2027) to support emergency preparedness and disaster response services for the exotic animal industry. ZDR3 operates under USDA-APHIS's Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025) and addresses a critical gap in disaster response infrastructure by specializing in non-domestic animal emergency management—a capability that existing domestic animal relief organizations lack. The award supports activities including maintenance and expansion of an emergency response network serving zoos, aquariums, sanctuaries, and related exotic animal facilities across multiple states.

The funded activities encompass three primary objectives: (1) maintaining and growing a coordinated emergency response network among exotic animal industry facilities; (2) providing tactical and remote support services during natural disasters and significant incidents; and (3) developing and disseminating preparedness materials that align with USDA regulations. ZDR3 delivers 24-hour emergency coordination, facility risk assessments, preparedness consultations, and resource management support to help exotic animal facilities respond effectively before, during, and after disasters—services distinct from those available through existing domestic animal-focused relief organizations.