Small Population Management Advisory Group

The AZA Small Population Management Advisory Group (SPMAG) serves as the genetic and demographic consultant for the AZA Conservation Program. The mission of SPMAG is to:

• Advance the science of applied small population biology
• Develop tools for use by small population managers
• Advise AZA and other programs involved in conservation of small populations
• Provide training for population managers in North America and other regions.

These goals are realized by:

1. Developing analytical tools, formulas, and strategies for population management of SSP and studbook species and other small captive and wild populations.
2. Conducting and publishing original research in areas related to small population management
3. Assisting software developers to produce software used to manage small populations
4. Conducting genetic and demographic analyses of captive population studbook data.
5. Helping lead SSP Masterplan meetings
6. Assisting studbook keepers with development of Population Management Plans
7. Consulting with SSP Coordinators, TAG chairs and studbook keepers on issues related to small population biology and the development of management plans
8. Reviewing draft SSP Master Plans, PMPs, and recovery plans as needed
9. Providing assistance to studbook keepers developing and maintaining their databases
10. Organizing and teaching workshops on the management of small populations and the use of various population management tools and strategies.

The Minnesota Zoo has one staff member serving on this national committee. Kevin Willis, BioPrograms Director, is currently secretary of this committee. Kathy Traylor-Holzer, former Zoo Registrar and Population Analyst, also serves on this committee.