Special to 1808Delaware
AEP Ohio and the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium are celebrating Forestry Fridays, a unique opportunity for Zoo guests to learn more about the work AEP Ohio’s forestry team does to help keep the power on and see firsthand how it also benefits animals.
Through its Trim to Treat® partnership, some of the trees and branches the AEP Ohio forestry crews regularly trim are donated and delivered to the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. These fresh tree trimmings, also known as browse, are not only important to the animals’ diets but also beneficial for enrichment.
On Forestry Fridays, Columbus Zoo guests are invited to a complimentary experience, where they will have the unique opportunity to feed a giraffe some of the fresh branches and twigs AEP Ohio trims away from its power lines and equipment.
“Our team loves sharing this special opportunity with customers,” said Dale Hopkins, region forestry manager, AEP Ohio. “We hope everyone gets a chance to see how the trees we trim right here in our community make a difference for animals at the Zoo.”
Complimentary Giraffe Feeding Details
Visitors can pick up a complimentary giraffe feeding voucher from the AEP Ohio forestry team in the Heart of Africa region beginning at 10 a.m. on July 26 and August 30, 2024, while supplies last. Vouchers can be redeemed anytime now through October during scheduled giraffe feedings throughout the day. Feeding opportunities with browse will be available on the Forestry Friday dates from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Dates and times are subject to change depending on weather and other factors. Additional details and updates can be found here.
“Since the start of the Trim to Treat partnership nearly three years ago, AEP Ohio has delivered a steady supply of browse for the animals,” said Dr. Jan Ramer, senior vice president animal care and conservation for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium and The Wilds. “It’s truly a win-win partnership that we’re excited for more visitors to experience up close and personal during Forestry Fridays.”
To learn more about the partnership and how it works, visit AEPOhio.com/Trim-to-Treat.
