[2] The Survival Plan urges zoos to concentrate on the creation and maintenance of socially healthy groups of geographically separated animals so that they can breed and perpetuate their genetic heritage without inbreeding.

The Zoo's 501-c-3 arm, the Springfield Zoological Society, concentrates on juvenile outreach, with a particular emphasis on social media and school-group activities and visits.

The Zoo conducts frequent consultations with Springfield's School District #186 in the teaching of conservation and biology through hands-on animal experiences.

[2] As the Zoo's ‘last blast of the season,’ the late-September Fling is focused on educating visitors on the changes animals make to prepare for cold weather.

[2] The Zoo is transformed for the holiday season with lights, food vendors, visits with Santa Claus, and photo booths.