Dakota Zoo Names New Director After 40-Year Tenure
Jackie Peeler takes the helm of the Bismarck facility, bringing three decades of wildlife care experience to local exhibits.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Wildlife
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Jackie Peeler officially became the director of the Dakota Zoo in Bismarck in May 2026. She succeeds Terry Lincoln, who retired after a 40-year tenure leading the facility.
Why it matters
The change in leadership marks a significant transition for the institution after four decades under consistent management. Peeler brings over 30 years of experience in wildlife care to guide the future direction of the zoo exhibits and operations.
Jackie Peeler assumes leadership following Terry Lincoln, who managed the zoo for 40 years. Peeler brings 30 years of experience in wildlife care to the Bismarck facility, including two decades of work in the lower Midwest.
The players
Jackie Peeler
The new director of the Dakota Zoo with over 30 years of wildlife care experience and prior leadership at the Honolulu Zoo.
Terry Lincoln
The former director of the Dakota Zoo who retired after providing 40 years of consistent management for the institution.
Dakota Zoo
A community-focused wildlife institution in Bismarck known for its deep local history and upcoming plans for new exhibits.
The details
Jackie Peeler secured the director position through a formal interview process in Bismarck, where community feedback on the zoo's historical importance played a key role. She transitioned to the Dakota Zoo from the Honolulu Zoo, where she held roles as assistant and acting zoo director. Her move was driven by a desire to return to a climate with four distinct seasons and to live closer to family in Grand Forks.
Timeline
May 2026: Jackie Peeler officially began her tenure as the director of the Dakota Zoo.
The Home Front
Local zoos often undergo strategic shifts in operations and programming following the transition of long-term leadership. This change follows the precedent of institutional stability set by a 40-year directorship, signaling a new era for community-focused wildlife exhibits.
Families in Bismarck can monitor the Dakota Zoo website or social media channels for future announcements regarding new exhibit launches or planned facility updates. Keep an eye on local zoo membership and event calendars as the new administration begins to implement their long-term vision.
The takeaway
The appointment of Jackie Peeler marks a new chapter for the Dakota Zoo following the long-term leadership of Terry Lincoln. Residents can look forward to seeing how Peeler utilizes her 30 years of wildlife experience to shape the future of the Bismarck facility.
Further reading
Learn more about local wildlife resources and community programs in the Wildlife section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kfyrtv.
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