Ross Park Zoo is about to be transformed and it's going to be a magical trip. The zoo is partnering with Fairy Doors of Broome County to create a magical forest at America's 5th oldest zoo.

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Traci Pena is the organizing force behind Fairy Doors of Broome County and she was working with Ross Park Zoo to house fairy doors as part of the annual Fairy Door project. She approached the zoo about transforming a part of the property that wasn't being underused.

Her idea was to turn that part of the zoo into a magical forest so visitors could use their imagination and help them connect with the natural world. This proposed wonderland is getting close to reality...in a fantasy kind of way.

Imagination Forest Project At Ross Park Zoo

The Imagination Forest Project is preparing for the transformation but they are looking for the communities help. They are looking for donations that include fan blades, paint, large bowls (mushroom tops), condiment bottles, tile pieces, and broken china.

They are also looking for wooden spools, plywood, and 12 tree stumps that are 18" tall and 12" across for sitting on. They also need people to paint and plant. In the next few months, they'll have special events to support the project including Rock Painting FUNShops on May 21st and June 4th.

Before you know it, there will be a magical forest full of fairy houses, hobbit holes, and gnome homes for the young and young at heart. Find out more about Ross Park Zoo and the Imagination Forest here.

America's 5th oldest zoo (opened in 1875) is located at 60 Morgan Road in Binghamton.

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