FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2024
Hohenwald, TN - The National Wildlife Federation (NWF), Americas largest wildlife conservation and education organization, recently granted Wildlife Habitat Garden certification to The Elephant Discovery Center's Outdoor Classroom, through its Garden for Wildlife Program.
This certification recognizes our efforts to create a sustainable landscape and garden that supports birds, butterflies, bees, frogs and other local wildlife. In addition, The Elephant Discovery Center’s pollinator garden has been co-certified with the Tennessee Wildlife Federation.
Every Certified Wildlife Habitat Garden provides natural sources of food, water, and cover, and is maintained in a sustainable way that incorporates native plants, conserves water and doesn't rely on pesticides. The establishment of a pollinator garden at The Discovery Center is a proactive step toward promoting ecological health, supporting biodiversity, providing educational opportunities, and fostering a culture of sustainability within the organization and our surrounding community. Through initiatives like this, The Sanctuary hopes to demonstrate its dedication to being a responsible steward of the planet and the elephants with which we share it, and inspire others to do the same.
“Anyone, anywhere can restore wildlife habitat right in their own yards and communities,” said NWF Naturalist David Mizejewski. “Whether you garden in a suburban yard, and urban area or a rural plot of land, you can make a difference for wildlife.”
The Discovery Center’s outdoor exhibits and landscape are free and open to the public 24/7. The center's indoor exhibit space is also free and open every Tuesday through Saturday, from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. To learn more about the Elephant Discovery Center, please visit https://elephants.com/discovery-center.
The elephant habitats are closed to the public. There will be no viewing or interaction with the elephants at the Discovery Center.
About The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee
Located on 3,060 acres in Hohenwald, Tennessee, The Elephant Sanctuary is the nation’s largest natural-habitat refuge developed specifically for Asian and African elephants. Founded in 1995, The Sanctuary has provided 33 elephants with individualized care, the companionship of a herd, and the opportunity to live out their lives in a safe haven dedicated to their well-being. The Sanctuary is licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency and has been dually recognized through accreditation by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and the Global Federation of Animal Sanctuaries. The Elephant Sanctuary is currently home to 12 elephant residents.
To learn more about The Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee, please visit our website at www.elephants.com. We welcome you to stay engaged and observe the elephants via our live-streaming EleCams at www.elephants.com/elecam, and connect with us via social media.
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Media Contact:
Ashley Dehnke
Public Relations & Communications Manager
615.975.6226