The Future of Animals Depends on Us

Do you have programming or design skills? Would you like to make the world safer for endangered species, and win over $1000 in local prizes and support / recognition from the US State Department in the process? Join us for the inaugural Zoohackathon— sponsored by the US State Department— to create solutions to international wildlife trafficking. You'll form teams to address illegal animal capture and trade.

We'll meet at the San Diego Zoo's Institute for Conservation Research, a state-of-the-art research facility normally closed to the public.

Agenda

Friday October 7th: 5pm - 8pm (optional overnight)

Welcome reception // Special animal presentation // Problem statements shared // Teams formed

Saturday October 8th: 8am - late (optional overnight)

All meals // Full day working sessions // Behind the scenes experience

Sunday October 9th: 8am - 1pm

Breakfast // Presentations to Judging Panel // Announcement of San Diego Zoohackathon winner

For more details, you can download the full (draft) agenda here.

FAQs

What makes this event special?

• win over $1000 in prizes
• behind the scenes experiences
• advance to international competition
• overnight camping optional / showers provided
• gain recognition and press for your contributions
• become part of the community of conservation-minded technologists
• exclusive access to Safari Park and Institute for Conservation Research
• winners may receive support from US State Department and others to pursue ideas
• ticket price includes all meals, snacks, and refreshments (dinner, breakfast, lunch, dinner, breakfast, lunch)

What if I don't know how to program/code- can I still come?

Yes. Although we need coders to join, we also need designers and strategic thinkers.

Are there ID requirements or an age limit to enter the event?

All ages are welcome and no ID is required.

What are my transport/parking options getting to the event?

Free parking will be provided inside the Institute for Conservation Research parking lot. To access, provide your name at the gate near 15600 San Pasqual Valley Rd, Escondido, CA. Entry and exit are permitted between 4:30pm and midnight on Friday, 7am and midnight on Saturday, and 7am and 2pm on Sunday.

What can I bring to the event?

We encourage you to bring laptops, tablets, or other computation devices. All food and drink will be provided. You are also free to bring your own food.

If you'd like to stay overnight at the Institute for Conservation Research, please bring tents, sleeping pads, sleeping bags, and/or blankets.

Is my registration/ticket transferrable?

Yes - if you register but can no longer attend, please contact the organizers at zoohackathon@techtoreconnect.org with the name of your replacement.

Where can I find more information about the international zoohackathon community?

Please visit www.zoohackathon.com.

What are the overall rules and guidelines for the event?

The complete Rules and Guidelines for the event are available here.

How can I contact the organizer with my questions?

For any questions not answered here, please check the general zoohackathon.com FAQ. If you still have questions, email zoohackathon@techtoreconnect.org.