Woodland Park Zoo announced today that it has been granted a renewed five-year accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums’ (AZA) Accreditation Commission. It’s the sixth consecutive time WPZ has received AZA accreditation.
According to a press release from the zoo:
To be accredited, Woodland Park Zoo underwent a thorough investigation to ensure the institution has and will continue to meet ever-rising standards, which include animal care, veterinary programs, conservation, education and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process in order to be members of the Association, and to resubmit to this process every five years.
The accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspection team observes all aspects of the institution’s operation in areas such as animal care; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff, and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and other areas. The inspection team prepares an extensive written report for the Accreditation Commission. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal Commission hearing.
