The East Coast Zoological Foundation (ECZF) is a nonprofit organization located in Melbourne, FL, which began its mission to protect wildlife and their habitats. For nearly 40 years, ECZF has worked with, and as part of, the community to answer the call for our wildlife, our waterways and our people.
Our vision is a future of coexistence where people work cooperatively, live sustainably and play responsibly as contributing members of our shared natural world. This means focusing on educating, engaging and empowering the community to take conservation action. ECZF works directly with Florida species and the community to develop programs and workshops to make a difference locally and around the world. The Foundation supports the work of rehabilitating and releasing sea turtles, black bear and manatee; restoring habitat throughout and along the Indian River Lagoon; providing scholarships and grants to the community; and more.
Some of this work is showcased at the Foundation’s flagship campus, Brevard Zoo.
The story of Brevard Zoo, from conception to construction, is one of intense collaboration, ambition and persistence. Driven by an engaged and passionate community, Brevard Zoo opened in 1994 and was physically built by more than 16,000+ community volunteers—the largest community build in the country.
In just 30 years, Brevard Zoo has become an internationally recognized force for animal wellbeing, STEM education and conservation. Brevard Zoo is home to more than 800 animals representing 170 species from all over the world and is focused on providing guests with authentic experiences in a natural Florida setting. This campus of ECZF earns 90% of its funds through admission-related income. More than 500,000 people visit the Zoo annually (with 45% from outside the county), and our annual economic impact exceeds $97.2 million. With the help of our community, the Zoo has continually been recognized as a leading organization in top zoo lists and awards from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
ECZF is now seeking to link arms with the community once again to build a second campus, a world-class aquarium on the banks of the Indian River Lagoon in Port Canaveral, FL. The future Bowen Aquarium and Conservation Center is a transformational project for our community that will replicate Brevard Zoo’s successes in wildlife conservation, educating and empowering over half a million people a year on how to preserve our natural resources and inspire the next generation to become environmental stewards.
Visitors will support lagoon restoration because $1 from ever paid admission will fund habitat restoration, species recovery and scientific research. The future Bowen Aquarium will have a total regional economic impact of $128.3 million a year and support more than 1,248 jobs.