Red River Zoo Plans Red Panda Exhibit Build
Executive Director Gene Peacock outlined the Fargo zoo's near-term focus on reaccreditation, exhibit construction and long-term expansion.
Updated on Nov. 3, 2026 in Wildlife
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Red River Zoo Executive Director Gene Peacock outlined plans for the zoo's future. Construction on the zoo's new red panda exhibit began in May and continues as crews prepare the site.
Why it matters
The zoo's plans tie together accreditation, a new exhibit and off-season programming, shaping how the Fargo attraction grows in the coming years. Its continued focus on cold-hardy species reflects the constraints of North Dakota's climate.
Construction on the red panda exhibit began in May 2026, with crews slated to pour footers and foundations and run utility lines in the coming weeks. The reaccreditation process through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is expected to wrap up in 2027, though the completion date for the exhibit itself was not provided.
The players
Gene Peacock
Gene Peacock is the executive director of the Red River Zoo in Fargo, North Dakota, overseeing its operations, accreditation efforts and long-term planning.
Association of Zoos and Aquariums
The Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a national accrediting body that sets standards for animal care, conservation and zoo operations across North America.
Red River Zoo
The Red River Zoo is a zoo in Fargo, North Dakota, known for housing cold-hardy species suited to the region's climate.
The details
Peacock's immediate goal is completing paperwork to secure reaccreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The zoo plans to expand off-season programming to boost attendance and revenue during colder months while maintaining its focus on cold-hardy species suited to North Dakota's climate.
Timeline
May 2026: Construction on the red panda exhibit began.
Coming weeks: Crews pour footers, foundations and utility lines.
2027: Reaccreditation process expected to wrap up.
Next 5 to 10 years: Master plan update and development of unused acreage.
Season Trajectory
The Red River Zoo's push for reaccreditation through the Association of Zoos and Aquariums places it within the national accreditation framework that governs zoo standards. Its expansion of off-season programming also reflects how regional zoos in cold-climate states adapt operations to seasonal attendance swings.
Fargo residents may see the red panda exhibit open once construction is complete, and expanded off-season programming could offer more winter visiting options. The zoo's continued focus on cold-hardy species means visitors will still see animals suited to North Dakota's climate.
The takeaway
Zoos in cold-climate regions are expanding winter programming to keep visitors coming through the off-season. Residents can plan visits around these seasonal offerings as the Red River Zoo continues its development.
Further reading
Explore more Wildlife coverage to see how zoos and conservation efforts are shaping the region.
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Would you visit a local zoo during winter months if it offered off-season programming?
