Jackie Peeler Named New Director of Dakota Zoo

The veteran wildlife expert assumed leadership of the Bismarck facility following the retirement of a longtime director.

Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Wildlife

Jackie Peeler Named New Director of Dakota Zoo

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In May 2026, Jackie Peeler became the director of the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck. She succeeds Terry Lincoln, who retired after managing the zoo for 40 years.

Why it matters

Peeler brings over 30 years of experience in wildlife care, including time at the Honolulu Zoo, to the local community. She moved to Bismarck to be closer to family in Grand Forks and to experience a climate with distinct seasons.

New director Jackie Peeler brings 30 years of total career experience to the role, including 20 years spent working in the lower Midwest. Her predecessor, Terry Lincoln, concluded a 40-year tenure at the facility.

The players

Jackie Peeler

She is the director of the Dakota Zoo who previously served as the acting zoo director at the Honolulu Zoo.

Terry Lincoln

He is the former director of the Dakota Zoo who retired after a 40-year career managing the institution.

The details

Peeler previously served as both assistant and acting zoo director at the Honolulu Zoo before moving to Bismarck. The hiring decision was influenced by the local community, who highlighted the vital role the zoo plays in city history during the interview process.

May 2026: Jackie Peeler began her tenure as the director of the Dakota Zoo.

Culture Shift

The transition at the Dakota Zoo reflects a significant change in local institutional leadership following the 40-year tenure of Terry Lincoln. This shift marks the start of a new era for the zoo's operations after decades of stable, long-term management.

Residents can expect the new leadership team to implement fresh plans for exhibits and facility updates in the coming seasons. This change impacts how the community engages with the zoo as the staff moves forward with their long-term development goals.

The takeaway

The appointment of a new director offers a chance for local zoos to modernize their exhibits and educational programming. Visitors should look for future announcements regarding new animal habitats and updated visitor experiences.