For over four decades, The Wild Animal Sanctuary in Keenesburg, Colorado has been a refuge for nearly 1,000 rescued lions, tigers, bears, and other majestic animals—many of them saved from abuse, neglect, or war zones around the world. It’s not just a sanctuary; it’s a symbol of hope, healing, and our shared responsibility to care for wildlife.

Now, that mission is under threat.

A home developer, Wigaard Smith Estates, is building new houses on land directly bordering the sanctuary—despite a 2010 agreement meant to prevent exactly this kind of conflict. That agreement required an 8-foot privacy fence, a protective buffer, and a seat on the homeowners association for TWAS to ensure new residents understand the unique challenges of living next to the world’s largest concentration of carnivores.

But that agreement is now being violated.

The sanctuary has filed a lawsuit to halt construction until those original terms are honored. Their fear is simple and valid: If people move in unaware of the sanctuary’s presence, it could spark noise complaints, safety concerns, and lawsuits that could undermine or even threaten the future of this critical rescue center.

This isn’t just a local zoning dispute. It’s about honoring promises, protecting animal welfare, and preserving a one-of-a-kind sanctuary that does real good in the world.

We call on Weld County officials, Wigaard Smith Estates, and all parties involved to immediately halt construction until full compliance with the 2010 agreement is restored.

The Wild Animal Sanctuary has upheld its commitment to animal care, ecological education, and community outreach for 45 years. It’s time developers and local authorities uphold their commitments too.

Sign now to demand protection for The Wild Animal Sanctuary—and for the animals that depend on it.

Photo: Andy Cross/The Denver Post