Safari West changes business operations to become nonprofit

Safari West, a 400-acre wildlife preserve in Santa Rosa, has announced it is transitioning from more than 35 years under private ownership to nonprofit stewardship through the newly formed Safari West Zoological Society. Safari West is home to hundreds of animals representing species from around the world.

The newly formed entity will be a California nonprofit public benefit corporation designed to steward Safari West’s mission of research, education and conservation, with animal care at its core, according to the Feb. 19 announcement.

The decision ensures Safari West’s long-term sustainability beyond individual leadership, according to founders and owners Peter and Nancy Lang. They anticipate completing the process over the coming months. That includes federal IRS determination of 501(c)(3) status and the formal transfer of charitable assets. If approved as a 501(c)(3) public charity, the Safari West Zoological Society will be allowed to accept tax-deductible donations and charitable grants upon IRS approval, according to Safari West’s legal counsel.

There will be no disruption to daily operations, visitors’ experience, or animal care during the transition process, and Safari West’s name won’t change.

“Safari West has always been about more than visiting animals,” said Nancy Lang. “It is about caring for them, learning from them and protecting the natural world we share. By moving forward under nonprofit stewardship, we are strengthening the foundation that will allow Safari West to serve wildlife and our community for generations to come.”

Now in its 33rd year of operation, the 400-acre wildlife preserve tucked in the hills off Porter Creek Road northeast of Santa Rosa was purchased by Peter and Nancy Lang. Peter Lang wanted somewhere to relocate the wildlife in his captive breeding program at his Ventura County ranch.

Last year it drew nationwide attention after it was named the No. 1 place to glamp in the United States, according to travel and lifestyle guide USA Today 10Best.

The birth of southern white rhinoceros calf Ozzy in July 2025 was celebrated nationally. The calf was named after music legend Ozzy Osbourne, who died the day it was born.

Safari West will soon launch a dedicated website for the Safari West Zoological Society. It will provide detailed information about governance, mission initiatives and ways the community can engage in supporting animal care and conservation efforts.

For more information, visit www.SafariWest.com.