The Conservation Outreach Department, headed by Brian Keating, is responsible for the Calgary Zoo's external conservation projects, eco-tour programs, sister zoo relationships, and public and media conservation presentations. Each year, the Calgary Zoo Conservation Fund supports at least a dozen conservation projects.Some projects are close to home and many more are overseas, supporting conservation efforts in countries that cannot afford the work required.

All conservation project funding is raised through the ZooFari eco-tour program, speaking fees for Brian Keating and Kevin Strange, designated donations from companies, wishing wells located at the Zoo, and from individuals just like you.