- The Toronto Zoo Board has granted Curator Emertis status to Mr. Bob Johnson, Curator of Reptiles & Amphibians in recognition of his extensive expertise, exceptional leadership, dedication and 41-years’ of service to the Toronto Zoo.

The “emeritus” designation is an honourary role among zoological institutions and other organizations such as museums, art galleries and universities. This status is assigned to leaders with a long and successful history with their organizations.

Mr. Bob Johnson has had a remarkable career and is highly regarded internationally for his knowledge and contributions to his field. He has received various awards for his work involving numerous well regarded projects with amphibians and reptiles, eco-education, stewardship and habitat protection.

“Mr. Johnson is highly regarded as a visionary leader in conservation by zoo professionals in the field, government agencies and universities, said Mr. Joe Torzsok, Chair, Toronto Zoo Board of Management. “He has pioneered and developed many novel and successful programs in the field of conservation and stewardship. Under the umbrella of Adopt-A-Pond there are six distinct initiatives: Ontario Turtle Tally, Frogwatch Ontario, Wetland Guardians, Urban Turtle Initiative, Healthy Waters - Healthy Wildlife, and Turtle Island Conservation,” said Mr. John Tracogna, Toronto Zoo’s Chief Executive Officer. These programs have all contributed to national recognition for the Toronto Zoo as a renowned Canadian leader in wetland conservation. In addition, his work with the massassauga rattlesnake and the Puerto Rican crested toad programs have been highly successful in creating awareness and stimulating protection for these species.

“Mr. Johnson has pioneered many stewardship programs working with communities and indigenous persons to foster the protection of numerous endangered or threatened species and support for needed habitat protection,” said Dr. William Rapley, Working with many partners and collaborators, numerous programs have been developed in Ontario that are highly successful thanks to his work.

“I am truly honoured to receive this designation from the Toronto Zoo and I look forward to continuing to support the Zoo and the many critical initiatives and projects to ensure the ongoing survival of many reptiles and amphibians”, said Mr. Bob Johnson.

Bob Johnson has been a lifelong field naturalist who has an encyclopedic knowledge and understanding of wildlife fauna and flora. He has participated in many species recovery teams and is an expert for government agencies, non-government agencies and universities. Working closely with Park Canada, Bob Johnson has pioneered the use of social media for programs to improve interaction and communication between scientists and field workers. In addition, he has stimulated public interest and participation in active projects within the Adopt-a-Pond program.

At the Toronto Zoo, only two retired employees have been designated with emeritus status. In 2003, Dr. Kay Mehren was bestowed the title of Veterinarian Emeritus and in 2009 Mr. Calvin White, former Toronto Zoo CEO was granted the title of Director Emeritus.