Lansing, Michigan – The Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA) announced that the Potter Park Zoo was once again accredited by AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission. Potter Park Zoo has been accredited by the AZA for 27 years and is one of only 124 zoos to be awarded the quarter century award. The award is given to zoos that have been continuously accredited by the AZA for 25 years, and are proven leaders dedicated to the highest standards in animal care, operations and veterinary medicine.
“AZA accreditation signifies that Potter Park Zoo is committed to meeting the very highest standards in the zoological profession,” said AZA President and CEO Dan Ashe. “It means that Potter Park Zoo is a proven leader in animal care and welfare and in providing educational and meaningful experiences for visitors.”
To be accredited, Potter Park Zoo underwent a thorough review to make certain it has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards in categories which include animal care and welfare, veterinary programs, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be members of the Association.
The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation, including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and more. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any institution that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and eight other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org.
