ZOO atlanta will develop a greater capacity and capability to manage aquatic habitats for a variety of species by improving its water quality monitoring program

The Institute of Museum and Library Services awarded Atlanta-Fulton County Zoo, Inc. $1,035,664 on September 1, 2026, under the Museums for America program (CFDA 45.301) to improve water quality management and monitoring capacity for its aquatic habitats.

Zoo Atlanta will purchase state-of-the-art equipment and supplies to establish a dedicated professional laboratory for water quality testing, develop new water quality monitoring and management protocols, train staff on the new program, and create a full-time Water Quality Technician position. The zoo will engage a consultant to support equipment acquisition and laboratory establishment. These improvements will enhance the zoo's ability to maintain healthier aquatic habitats for its living collections and increase its capacity to care for additional aquatic animals over time.

Work is performed in Atlanta, Georgia. The period of performance runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2029.

The museum will engage a consultant to assist with the purchase of state-of-the-art equipment and supplies to establish a dedicated, professional laboratory. The project will also involve the development of new water quality monitoring and management protocols, staff training for the program, and the creation of a new full-time position of water quality technician. The project will improve the effectiveness of the ZOO's water quality monitoring program, provide improved habitats for the living collections in aquatic habitats, and allow the ZOO to care for more aquatic animals over time.