Abstract:
In 1974, the North Carolina Zoo at Asheboro spent $20,000 providing food for its 125 animals. This year the amount is expected to be over $35,000. Andy Lucker, operations manager of the 1,165-acre zoo, says inflation, causing hay to double in price, has contributed to increased expenses. Donations made by local farmers help, and zoo officials hope to begin growing vegetables and grain on zoo land within a year.