Dutch Zoo Conservation Fund (DZCF)
The Dutch Zoo Conservation Fund (DZCF) was established in 1997. It was an initiative of members of the Dutch Zoo Association (DZA) in an attempt to support the World Zoo Conservation Strategy. Several DZA members already administered their own nature conservation fund but under the banner of the DZA there was no conservation fund. The DZA expected a joint conservation effort to have a larger financial impact. In addition, a DZA conservation fund was a necessary and welcome initiative that showed the commitment of all DZA zoos to contribute to nature and species conservation. The annual DZCF contribution by DZA members is made up of both a fixed rate and a rate depending on the number of visitors.
The focus of DZCF projects is on integrating the conservation of important and/or threatened species (“flagship species”) with local community involvement. Most DZCF projects are characterised by a small-scale bottom-up approach and relatively small budgets. The scope and reach of these projects however make a significant contribution to both in-situ and ex-situ conservation. DZCF projects combines conservation, education and research focusing on a multitude of species in all parts of the world.
In 2008 two DZCF projects , research and conservation of the lowland tapir (Tapirus terrestris) in Brazil and the conservation and protection of the Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) in Eastern Russia, won the Future for Nature Award. The Future for Nature Award is awarded to young, talented conservationists dedicated to species conservation. Besides the prize money (50.000 euro) which is of considerbale value in itself, they gain international recognition and a reputation for excellence. In 2009 Muhammad Farhadinia (Iranian Cheetah Society) won the Future for Nature Award. DZCF sponsored his bear research and conservation project in Iran.
Deadlines for submitting project applications in 2010:
August 16
November 15
Download DZCF project application form
Download DZCF project criteria
Only Dutch Zoo Conservation Fund project applications will be accepted