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Welcome to the Blank Park Zoo Media Center!
The Blank Park Zoo Marketing & Communications Team welcomes both inquiries and visits from credentialed members of the media for the production of high-quality news features, stories, and programs.
As Iowa’s only accredited zoo, Blank Park Zoo is home to more than 1,500 animals representing over 100 species, and countless stories waiting to be told. From local conservation success to global partnerships, we’re here to help you share how the Zoo inspires an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation.
The Marketing & Communications Team works with both traditional and digital media, including journalists, bloggers, and social-media influencers. For on-assignment media, please contact our team to discuss visit logistics, interviews, and visual access options.
Media Contact
Alex Payne
Marketing & Communications
bapayne@blankparkzoo.net
Office: (515) 974-2587 Cell: (515) 249-9765
This contact information is for working members of the media and approved content creators only. For general questions about hours, tickets, or events, please contact our Guest Services team at info@blankparkzoo.org or call (515) 285-4722.
Story Ideas
Looking for inspiration? Here are a few story starters:
Wild Iowa Breaks Ground
The Zoo’s next major expansion, Ruan Foundation Wild Iowa, will immerse guests in native wildlife and conservation stories close to home.
60 Years of Saving Wildlife
Blank Park Zoo celebrates its 60th Diamond Jubilee in 2026, honoring six decades of education, conservation, and family memories.
Saving Iowa's Blanding's Turtles
A threatened species in Iowa is getting a boost through Blank Park Zoo’s conservation partnership with Polk County Conservation and the Iowa DNR. The Zoo’s staff help raise young turtles in a safe environment until they’re large enough to survive in the wild.
Wild Lights Festival
Spring nights glow brighter during Blank Park Zoo’s Wild Lights Festival, featuring dozens of larger-than-life, hand-crafted Asian lanterns.
Zoo Brew Returns
The adults-only summer concert series combining craft beer, live music, and after-hours animal encounters.
100 Word Description
Blank Park Zoo, celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026, is Iowa’s only AZA-accredited zoo. It is dedicated to inspiring an appreciation of the natural world through conservation, education, research, and recreation. Home to more than 1,500 animals representing over 100 species, the Zoo is the second largest cultural attraction in Iowa. Visitors can experience the indoor tropical rainforest and aquarium in the Discovery Center, or feed giraffes along the Africa boardwalk. The Zoo’s conservation initiatives protect wildlife both around the globe and in Iowa. Events such as Wild Lights, Zoo Brew, and Night Eyes make the Zoo a year-round destination.
Night Eyes 2025
Media Policies
Media Admission Policy
Blank Park Zoo welcomes members of the media to visit on their personal time to become familiar with the Zoo’s programs, animals, and story opportunities. These visits help strengthen future coverage and understanding of the Zoo’s mission and conservation work.
Requests for complimentary admission should be made in advance to marketing@blankparkzoo.net, ideally at least three business days before the desired visit to allow time for approval and ticket setup.
Media admission requests are reserved for active, credentialed members of the media and are not available for administrative, sales, or retired personnel. Freelance journalists should provide links to recent work or a letter of assignment.
Complimentary admission is extended to members of the following media categories:
- Broadcast: reporters, producers, photojournalists, meteorologists
- Print/Online: editors, writers, photographers, publishers
- Social Media: influencers with demonstrated reach and engagement (considered case-by-case)
Media FAQ
I’m a member of the news media and want to cover a story at Blank Park Zoo. What’s the process?
We’re happy to assist working journalists covering the Zoo. Please contact the Marketing & Communications team before arriving on-site so we can help coordinate access, interviews, and any necessary staff or animal logistics.
Email: marketing@blankparkzoo.net
Call/Text: 515-249-9765
This helps us ensure your visit runs smoothly and that any requested staff, animals, or locations are available.
How can I contact the Zoo for urgent media inquiries after hours?
For after-hours or weekend inquiries, please email bapayne@blankparkzoo.net and include “URGENT” in the subject line. Messages are monitored regularly. If your request is deadline-sensitive, please include your outlet, topic, and phone number.
How do I request photo or video access at the Zoo?
All filming, photography, and b-roll requests must be coordinated through the Marketing & Communications team in advance. Most media shoots are escorted by Zoo staff for safety and animal welfare reasons. Please include:
- Story topic and outlet
- Desired date/time
- Number of people
- Type of content (live shot, feature, b-roll, etc.)
Send all details to marketing@blankparkzoo.net
Can I conduct interviews with zookeepers or animal experts?
Absolutely! Our Animal Care, Conservation, and Education teams are available for interviews on a range of topics, from animal behavior and species survival plans to local conservation projects. All interview requests should be routed through the Marketing & Communications team to ensure proper scheduling.
Do you have logos, b-roll, and photos available for media use?
What are your requirements for influencer or content creator visits?
We love working with creators who share our passion for animals and conservation. Influencer collaborations are evaluated on a case-by-case basis based on audience, engagement, and brand fit.
Apply for our influencer program by emailing your media kit and social links to marketing@blankparkzoo.net.
Do you allow commercial filming or production shoots?
Yes, but all commercial and documentary projects must align with the Zoo’s mission and require a signed Location Filming Agreement.
All production requests must be submitted in writing at least two weeks in advance and include the project’s purpose, crew size, equipment, and schedule. Fees may apply.
Submit requests to marketing@blankparkzoo.net.
Can I film behind the scenes or enter animal areas?
Behind-the-scenes access is limited and must be approved by both the Animal Care and Marketing & Communications teams. These areas are restricted for animal welfare and safety reasons. If approved, filming will be escorted and supervised by Zoo staff.
Can I fly a drone at the Zoo?
No. Drones and unmanned aerial systems are not permitted on or above Zoo property without prior written authorization and FAA compliance. This policy protects guest privacy and animal welfare.
How do I arrange a live broadcast or morning show segment from the Zoo?
We’re happy to host live segments featuring our animals, staff, or seasonal events. Live broadcast requests must be coordinated through the Communications team at least 48 hours in advance.
We’ll work with you to determine safe, visually engaging locations that don’t disrupt animal routines or guest experiences.
Do I need to be on assignment to receive complimentary media admission?
Media professionals are welcome to visit the Zoo on their personal time to become familiar with our exhibits, programs, and story opportunities. These visits help strengthen future coverage. Requests for complimentary admission should be made in advance to bapayne@blankparkzoo.net, ideally at least three business days before the visit to allow time for approval and ticket setup.
Is parking included with my media pass?
Yes. Parking at Blank Park Zoo is free for all visitors, including media guests.