Our Work
What We Do
Our Work
EMR SAFE’s work is organized around six objectives set out in the AZA SAFE Program Plan. Together, they guide everything from fieldwork in Michigan’s wetlands to the outreach materials that reach classrooms across the Great Lakes region. Every partner institution contributes to one or more of these areas.
Coordinated Conservation
Field Conservation & Population Monitoring
Since 2009, our Michigan field project has surveyed the healthiest known population of Eastern Massasaugas, capturing, examining, and releasing more than 1,000 individual snakes. This long-running dataset gives researchers the population, survival, and reproduction data needed to guide conservation decisions across the species’ range.
Outreach & Education
We equip partner institutions with toolkits, activity books, and educational materials that bring massasauga conservation directly to zoo visitors, landowners, and students. This work builds toward shared moments like World Snake Day each July 16th, when partners across the network promote the species together.
Reintroduction & Translocation
Beyond monitoring, EMR SAFE partners support active reintroduction and translocation efforts, including work in Ohio and at Ojibway Prairie in Ontario, extending protection for the species beyond its core Michigan stronghold.
Fundraising & Program Support
The EMR SAFE Dedicated Fund, held at Detroit Zoo, supports fieldwork, partner projects, and program growth. Institutional fundraising efforts — from merchandise to member events — help sustain the program’s long-term work.
Partner Coordination
More than 22 AZA-accredited zoos and wildlife agencies work under EMR SAFE. Coordinating this network — sharing expertise, aligning fieldwork schedules, and pooling resources — lets the program accomplish more than any single institution could alone.
Public Presence & Communication
A strong public-facing identity, including this website, helps EMR SAFE reach new supporters, share research findings, and make the program visible to people searching for ways to help.