The project seeks to create a direct link between the conservation mission of the Zoo and its celebration of the wild life and wild places of the northern world, with the wild life and natural systems of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. The entry plaza offers an ease of orientation and address for the café, education centre, and ticketing and gift store facilities as well as offering a range of amenity views to the River Otter exhibit and interpretation. The Wander is a 300m long year-round outdoor experience that leads guests to the various existing and planned exhibit zone destinations where either indoor facilities or shelter are provided. The project is located on the gentle rolling slopes of the North Saskatchewan River Valley in Edmonton. It is a critical phase in the implementation of the City's multiyear, multiphase master plan for renewal of the Zoo.
The Zoo continues to expand its approach to developing sustainable practices including a comprehensive water management system that minimizes the use of potable water through recycling and bio-filtration.